12 AUGUST 2000, Page 41

THE state rooms at Buckingham Palace were opened again to

the public at the weekend. For the first time, paying visitors are able to see the ballroom (right), which was completed in 1855 to the designs of James Pennethorne and Ludwig Gruner. It is the largest room in the palace.

Queen Victoria financed the alterations to Buckingham Palace, which began in the 1840s, by selling the Royal Pavilion in Brighton to the town corporation for £99,500, thus countering public concern over further expenditure on the royal residence.

Today, the ballroom is used by the Queen for state banquets, official receptions and investiture ceremonies.

The state rooms are open until 1 October, and entry costs £10.50 for adults, £5 for those under 17 and £8 for those over 60.