Buckingham Palace

Haha! In this picture it looks like I'm bigger than the entire Palace! Actually, I'm only a small elf - it only looks like this because I came from St James's Park, and from this viewpoint I can see the whole building.

Since 1837 it's been the official residence of the monarch, and it's therefore famous as being where the Queen lives.

I know the Queen's in today because the Union Jack is fluttering high. If it's down, it means the Queens visiting one of her other castles. I wonder if the Queen can see me?

I've just pressed the button, so I can cross to get a better look. The railings behind me are used when everyone's here in an excited crowd. I think they look like giant climbing frames for elves.

These are high arches around the Palace. They're painted gold, and it makes them look very regal.

And here I am outside the main gates to Buckingham Palace! It's not possible to go inside (although sometimes, when the Queen is away, people are allowed to pay some money and look inside at the State Rooms.

He looks very fierce, doesn't he? This soldier is standing outside Buckingham Palace to guard the Royal Family - there are several of them and they stand still for hours, even though it's really hot, and they're wearing long-sleeved uniforms and those great big helmets!

When they change positions (so they can get a bit of rest), it's called the Changing of the Guard, and it's very popular, so lots of people watch them.

Luckily for me, though, I don't have to stand still for so long! So I could look at this golden statue, which is part of The Queen Victoria Memorial. It's right outside Buckingham Palace, and it flashes in the sunlight so everyone can see it.

Eww. This was smelly. It wasn't by me, honest! I'm a very well trained elf.

There are lots of horses in London. Sometimes the police ride horses around London, so maybe one of their horses saw the golden statue and pooped in surprise!

I'll see you later (I need to find some perfume),

E. D.