Buckingham Palace’s Secret Door Revealed to Visitors

As the Queen retires to Scotland for the summer, Buckingham Palace is now officially open to visitors.

This means that tourists can explore the State Apartments, and spend a few extra minutes in the White Drawing Room, which holds a secret door leading to the monarch's private State Apartments.

During a visit by Hello magazine to preview the Prince and Patron's exhibition, the Queen's hidden passage was revealed.

The passage allows Her Majesty to travel more swiftly through the palace.

At first glance, the grand golden mirror and dresser in the room appear like any other, featuring the same candlestick ornaments and decorative jars.

However, the floor-to-ceiling mirror doubles up as a door and is left slightly ajar so that visitors can take a peek inside.

Behind the mirror, there is a smaller door that leads to the rest of the Queen's private apartments.

The ornaments are permanently glued to the dresser surface, so there's no risk of anything falling or breaking when the door is pushed.

Visitors should also look up and admire the grand chandelier in the center of the ceiling of the White Drawing Room, which has been recently refurbished and refitted for guests to see.

The roll-top desk, made around 1775, sits just in front of the secret door.

It was thought to be intended for the French royal family but was purchased by George IV in 1825 and inlaid with trophies and flowers.

The White Drawing Room is regularly used by the Queen and her family, especially during big events.

During the state visit of the Spanish royals in July 2017, King Philip and Queen Letizia posed with Her Majesty and Prince Philip for official photos.

Buckingham Palace is always open for the summer when the Queen is on holiday.

However, only certain parts of the palace can be accessed by members of the public.

This year's exhibition, Prince and Patron, celebrates Prince Charles' upcoming 70th birthday and showcases some artwork and personal family photos from his private collection.

Visitors are advised to spend a few extra minutes in the White Drawing Room, which is not only stunning but also holds a secret door.

The fact that the Queen's private apartments are hidden behind a mirror makes the tour even more intriguing.