Go beyond the palace gates for a rare glimpse inside Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace’s 650 rooms form the nerve center of the British monarchy. It’s from here that the queen directs the business of the royal family, entertains heads of state and conducts her private life. “Headquarters” goes beyond the palace gates for a rare glimpse inside. Ghana’s President Kufour and his wife, along with their entourage, have arranged a state visit. The queen’s guests will stay in Buckingham Palace’s 11 royal suites, where meticulous footmen will valet for them, unpacking and pressing each item of clothing and attending to their every need. For the magnificent banquet, the queen personally reviews the table arrangements, and the royal chef certifies that the presentation of every plate is perfect. At the queen’s official birthday celebration, thousands of well-wishers gather under the palace balcony while the Royal Air Force flies in formation overhead. After they greet the crowds, members of the House of Windsor head inside for her majesty’s private family party. “Headquarters” also follows Queen Elizabeth as she prepares for her annual move to Balmoral in Scotland. While she’s gone, 40,000 visitors will tour the royal apartments for a spectacular exhibit of her formal gowns and jewelry, but only after the queen approves the display.