What to expect
The King's Traveling Artists Exhibition debuts at Buckingham Palace's summer opening ceremony
This summer, visitors touring the state rooms of Buckingham Palace will enjoy a special exhibition titled "The King's Traveling Artists," featuring over 70 artworks from His Majesty's private collection.Many of these works have never been publicly displayed before.
In the spring of 1985, the then Prince of Wales personally funded and invited John Ward to serve as the official touring artist during the royal visit to Italy, encouraging him to create works inspired by his experiences. For the next 40 years, the King personally selected and financed an artist to accompany the royal delegation on overseas visits, maintaining largely the same itinerary. The exhibition and accompanying publication will feature 42 artists who have held this role, collectively visiting 95 countries across 69 official tours.
To honor His Majesty the King's longstanding patronage of the arts, this program offers both established and emerging artists the opportunity to receive unique commissions and enjoy dedicated creative time during visits to various countries. The works displayed in the palace banquet hall, personally selected by the King from his private collection, will showcase moments from royal journeys, capturing the tone, colors, and atmosphere of the royal family in ways distinct from photographic documentation.
Experience 19 grand palaces at Buckingham Palace hosted by royal family members
Visit the White Drawing Room, Music Room, and the Throne Room where the coronation ceremonies of His and Her Majesty took place.
Head to the palace's garden café for a variety of snacks and enjoy panoramic lake views on the lawn.
△ During the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, one guard detachment replaces another to become the King's Guard, marching from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace accompanied by music.
△ At the Queen's Gallery in Buckingham Palace, visitors can view regularly updated exhibitions from the Royal Collection, featuring works by Old Masters, rare furniture, decorative art pieces, and an extensive photography collection.
△ The Royal Mews is one of the world's most prestigious operational stables, housing the royal carriages, Windsor Greys, and Cleveland Bays. To this day, it remains responsible for His Majesty the King and other royal family members' travel arrangements.
Terms & conditions
No guest under the age of 18 will be given a bike without an adult over the age of 18 present.
For eBike upgrades, riders must be at least 14 years old.
Items recommended to bring:
Credit card
Passport or ID card
Not suitable for:
Pregnant women
Good to know:
For eBike upgrades, riders must be at least 14 years old.
No guest under the age of 18 will be given a bike without an adult over the age of 18 present.