For many years now, Buckingham Palace annually opens its doors for public tours and visits. Queen Elizabeth II, reportedly, decided to do this for the first time on April 29, 1993.
The actual visits and tours normally take place every summer and spring, between August and October for ten weeks. As stated, this has been the period when the British Monarch stays at her Balmoral residence, in Scotland.
According to People, the Queen's decision to open the Sovereign's property became a very "controversial" one during those years. Aside from the fact that no British Monarch has ever done it until her, there were also concerns over the security risks.
But, despite all the controversies, Queen Elizabeth II still chose to open Buckingham Palace for public tours and visits. As explained, this was the only way they could raise funds to restore Windsor Castle in 1993.
The publication revealed that a "devastating fire" almost brought the Berkshire property to the ground in 1992. Just before the year ended, the fire reportedly caused a total of $62 million worth of damage.
As per claims, there was a huge debate about the property's restoration and repair works. The talks of whether the British Royal Family or the taxpayers should shoulder the costs became very apparent for months.
Initially, it was said that they tried to raise funds "through a public fund." However, BBC News noted that they were only able to obtain over $31,000 against the much-needed $50 million for the repair costs.
Upon learning the outcome of the effort, Queen Elizabeth II, reportedly, decided to announce that the Palace, where she lives and works, will be open for public tours. It was also said that they were expecting to receive 400,000 guests and visitors during the eight-week opening.
Originally, Queen Elizabeth II, along with the royal household, planned to do this for only five years. But, given that they sold over "three year's worth" of tickets just after the first week, this has since become an annual event inside Buckingham Palace.
During the first year's opening, the tickets were, reportedly, sold at £8 or $10 for adults. In 2020, however, the price has seemingly increased, possibly due to inflation and other factors.
As per the Royal Collection Trust's website, the current prices of the tickets are between $30 to $60 for adults, depending on the type of ticket. There are also packages available for groups and families.
For this year, Buckingham Palace will be open for tours and visits starting July 25 up to October 4. But, given the current pandemic crisis, it remains unknown if the annual summer opening will still push through.
