Buckingham Palace: A Year in the Life

A behind-the-scenes look at the royal residence over the course of a year, beginning with the secrets of palace life during the summer season. From the splendour of the famous garden parties and the spectacle of Trooping the Colour to the King's Birthday Honours, state room opening and staff trips down hidden corridors, the programme uncovers the extraordinary stories behind life at Britain's most famous royal palace.

A behind-the-scenes look at the royal residence as a cold winter descends on London, including the annual diplomatic reception, which is the largest indoor event of the year. There is also the selection of a portrait of the King fit for the royal Christmas card as well as the choice of the perfect tree, and the creating of seasonal menus in the kitchens.

A behind-the-scenes look at the royal residence during spring, as rare daffodil displays bloom, royal traditions take centre stage and staff prepare everything from afternoon teas to ceremonial horses for the busy season ahead. There are VE Day commemorations, the resetting of 500 historic clocks for British Summer Time, and the people and preparations behind the start of the royal ceremonial year.

The royal residence prepares for a busy autumn season of state visits, with staff planning everything from royal guest suites to banquet menus. The programme reveals why autumn gives teams of experts a special chance to conserve some of the palace's priceless interiors, and how the change in the weather allows them to restore the palace's historic stonework.