London, the capital city of the UK, is a paradise for history buffs and Royal enthusiasts. The city is home to a plethora of top Royal attractions that offer visitors a chance to delve into the rich heritage and culture of the British monarchy. Whether you’re a fan of the royals or just curious about their lavish lifestyle, London’s Royal sites are worth exploring. In this article, we have rounded up the top Royal sites that you should visit on your trip to London.
Buckingham Palace
Undoubtedly, Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most popular landmarks and an iconic symbol of the British monarchy. This magnificent palace is the official residence of the King and often the gathering place for the British at times of national celebration. During August and September, the palace is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its vast 775 rooms and witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place almost every morning at 11:30 am. We have a guide on visiting Buckingham Palace here.
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Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace, located in the beautiful Kensington Gardens, is the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, better known as Will and Kate, along with their lovely children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. While one wing of the palace is open to the public, you can feel like royalty for a day while exploring the exhibitions.
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St. James’s Palace
St. James’s Palace, which used to be the official residence of the monarch, is now the primary residence of certain senior royals. Although the palace is not open to the general public, it provides an excellent view for watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It is also the ‘official’ home of the Court of the Crown. For example, when ambassadors are accredited, it is to the ‘Court of St. James’s.’
Clarence House
Clarence House, a historic building in London, has been home to many members of the Royal Family over the years. It is King Charles’s preferred home while Buckingham Palace is undergoing conservation work. During August, guided tours are available to the general public, taking you through four or five rooms with an educated, top-rated tour guide.
The Tower of London, which has served many purposes over the years, is now home to the Crown Jewels of England and open to the general public. The tower offers visitors a chance to view the 23,578 gems and experience the feeling of stepping into a different time period. We definitely recommend doing a guided tour by one of the Yeoman Warders. You won’t regret it!
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Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a grand church that has been the location of every monarch’s coronation since the 11th century. It has also become the premier location for Royal Weddings, including Will and Kate’s in 2011. The Abbey has a close relationship with the Royal Family and is highly regarded as a symbol of British monarchy and history. Guided tours are recommended to explore the restricted areas of the Abbey. Don’t miss the new museum in the Triforium!
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Windsor Castle
It’s not really in London, but it’s close enough to visit if you’re in London. Windsor Castle was the Queen’s preferred weekend home and a meeting place for royal duties. The castle offers visitors unique attractions, such as Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and St. George’s Chapel, where many Royal weddings have been celebrated. The castle is open to the general public and provides an opportunity to witness the grandeur of the British monarchy.
Click here to book tickets for Windsor Castle
London’s Royal sites are a must-visit for anyone interested in British history and culture. Whether you’re a fan of the royals or just curious about their lavish lifestyle, the top seven Royal places mentioned above are worth exploring. So, pack your bags, head to London, and feel like a King or Queen for a day!
Author: jonathan
Jonathan is a consummate Anglophile who launched Anglotopia.net in 2007 to channel his passion for Britain. Londontopia is its sister publication dedicated to everything London.
Correction. It is not the “Court of St. James.” It is the “Court of St. James’s.” “This nomenclature is due to St James’s Palace being the most senior royal palace, despite Buckingham Palace being the primary metropolitan residence of all British sovereigns since the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837.”
And while St. James’s Palace is not open to the public, the Chapel Royal there is open to the public for services.