TIME OFF: THE STATE ROOMS, BUCKINGHAM PALACE

IF YOU'RE A BRITISH ROYALIST – or simply curious what life is like inside Buckingham Palace – then the State Rooms tour, entering its last month, is a must-see attraction on your next London visit.

The State Rooms are the public rooms where Queen Elizabeth II and members of the Royal Family receive their guests on State, ceremonial and official occasions. There are 19 State Rooms, which mainly reflect the taste of George IV, who commissioned the architect John Nash to transform Buckingham House into a grand palace in 1825. After walking past the spacious quadrangle, the lavish interiors starting mounting up – The White Drawing Room, Throne Room, and history of art fans will have much to admire in the Picture Gallery with works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, Poussin, Canaletto and Claude. If I had to pick a favourite it would be the ballroom – I’ve never seen one with an Organ – which was completed in 1855.

Every year, Buckingham Palace’s summer opening features a special exhibition. This year’s Prince and Patron exhibition celebrates the 70th birthday of Charles, Prince of Wales, with a special display of more than 100 artworks chosen by the prince. Items on display include paintings, decorative arts, furniture and textiles. Round off with English afternoon tea beside the large gardens – and you may spot a heron.

The crowds were deep in August, with visitors having to pass tight airport-style security. No photography is allowed.

Adults £24, children £13.50. Tours start from 9.30am with last admission 4.15pm. royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-staterooms-buckingham-palace