London 2014 - Part 4 / Buckingham Palace

We based our entire trip to London around 1 event. As with other locations, photography was not allowed inside, but I hope to convey the story by borrowing a few photos from the Buckingham Palace Official Souvenir Guide.

 Most everyone who has been to London has peered through these gates.

 Through the Royal Collection, Anne was able to secure an exclusive tour of Buckingham Palace. There were approximately 25 of us on the 2 hour event. We all felt like royalty as we went through the State Rooms.

We made our arrival via the Ambassadors' Entrance. Sitting in the foyer & waiting for the last of the group to arrive, we each were looking at each other and thinking the same thought. We are inside Buckingham Palace! Such tourists!

The Ambassadors' Entrance is to the left, close to the trees. While people outside were looking at the front of the Palace, we would enter the left side of the Quadrangle and begin the evening  . . . . 

At the Grand Entrance and the Grand Hall. We were welcomed up this same carpet.

Up the Grand Staircase. Looking through the Green Room into the Throne room.

The Picture Gallery. Priceless antiques. Artwork beyond belief.

Remember the 2012 move Skyfall? In one scene, 007 and Her Majesty travel the East Gallery & beyond. Been there.

The Ballroom. Anne & I sat in the front row. The red carpet can be removed to reveal a ballroom dance floor. Oh, for the opportunity to do a foxtrot across those planks!

After a glass of bubbly, it was time to leave. We did not leave via the Ambassadors' Entrance, but were escorted through the quadrangle & out this front gate. Walking towards the gates, there were numerous people looking at us, thinking How did they get in there?

I have seen for myself what lies beyond those gates.