The United Kingdom is renowned for its rich royal history, and its palaces are living monuments to centuries of tradition, power, and architectural splendour. Each palace has its own unique story, offering a glimpse into the lives of British royalty past and present. For tourists, visiting these royal palaces is a must, not just for their historical significance, but for the sheer grandeur and beauty they offer.
Here’s a detailed guide to some of the most iconic royal palaces in the UK, along with tips on how to get there and what to expect.
- Buckingham Palace, London
Overview: The most famous of all royal residences, Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch. It has been the monarchy’s administrative headquarters since 1837 and is the site of numerous state occasions and royal ceremonies, including the Changing of the Guard.
What to See:
- State Rooms: Open to the public during the summer months, the State Rooms are exquisitely decorated with paintings, furniture, and treasures from the Royal Collection.
- The Queen’s Gallery: A permanent space dedicated to exhibitions from the Royal Collection, featuring art and historical artefacts.
- The Royal Mews: Home to the royal carriages and horses, this working stables offers a unique insight into the royal transportation.
- The Gardens: The palace gardens are also open to visitors in the summer, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of London.
How to Get There:
- Location: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
- Public Transport: The nearest Tube stations are Victoria (Victoria, District, and Circle Lines), Green Park (Victoria, Piccadilly, and Jubilee Lines), and Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line).
- Walking: Buckingham Palace is a short walk from major attractions like Westminster Abbey and Trafalgar Square, making it easily accessible by foot.
Tickets and Tours:
- Tickets can be purchased online via the Royal Collection Trust website. Guided tours are available, offering a deeper insight into the history and significance of the palace.
- Windsor Castle, Berkshire
Overview: Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, serving as a royal residence for over 900 years. It remains a favoured weekend retreat for the current monarch and is the venue for state visits and other official events.
What to See:
- St. George’s Chapel: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this chapel is the final resting place of many monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II.
- State Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms used for official state occasions, featuring an incredible collection of paintings and armour.
- The Changing of the Guard: A ceremonial event similar to that at Buckingham Palace, though on a smaller scale.
- The Long Walk: A picturesque avenue leading up to the castle, perfect for a leisurely stroll with stunning views.
How to Get There:
- Location: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NJ, United Kingdom
- Public Transport: The easiest way to reach Windsor Castle from London is by train. Trains run regularly from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central (via Slough), or from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside.
- Driving: Windsor is approximately 25 miles from central London. Parking is available in Windsor town, but it can be limited, especially on weekends.
Tickets and Tours:
- Tickets are available on the Royal Collection Trust website. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides are provided to enhance your visit.
- Kensington Palace, London
Overview: Located in the heart of London, Kensington Palace has been a residence of the British Royal Family since the 17th century. It was the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria and is currently the official residence of several members of the royal family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales.
What to See:
- The King’s State Apartments: Opulent rooms designed for courtly entertainment, showcasing the splendour of 18th-century royal life.
- The Queen’s State Apartments: A more intimate set of rooms, reflecting the private life of the royals.
- Victoria: A Royal Childhood: An exhibition detailing the early life of Queen Victoria.
- The Sunken Garden: A beautiful garden that was redesigned to honour the memory of Princess Diana, who lived at Kensington Palace.
How to Get There:
- Location: Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, United Kingdom
- Public Transport: The nearest Tube stations are High Street Kensington (Circle and District Lines) and Queensway (Central Line).
- Walking: Kensington Palace is located within Kensington Gardens, making it easily accessible by foot from nearby Hyde Park or Notting Hill.
Tickets and Tours:
- Tickets can be purchased online through the Historic Royal Palaces website. The palace offers various exhibitions and guided tours throughout the year.
- Hampton Court Palace, Richmond upon Thames
Overview: Hampton Court Palace, a favourite residence of King Henry VIII, is a stunning example of Tudor architecture combined with Baroque additions. The palace is famous for its vast gardens, historic kitchens, and the world’s oldest surviving hedge maze.
What to See:
- The Great Hall: The grandest surviving medieval hall in England, often used for royal banquets and ceremonies.
- The Tudor Kitchens: An insight into the extensive preparations required to feed the Tudor court.
- The Maze: An iconic garden maze, providing a fun and challenging experience for visitors.
- The Chapel Royal: A beautiful chapel that has been in continuous use for over 450 years.
How to Get There:
- Location: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU, United Kingdom
- Public Transport: The palace is accessible by train from London Waterloo, with services running to Hampton Court Station. The palace is a short walk across the bridge from the station.
- Driving: There is limited parking available on-site, and it’s advised to check ahead during busy times.
Tickets and Tours:
- Tickets are available on the Historic Royal Palaces website, and it’s recommended to book in advance. The palace offers family-friendly tours, audio guides, and seasonal events, including Tudor re-enactments.
- Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh, Scotland
Overview: The Palace of Holyroodhouse, commonly known as Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Situated at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the palace has been a key site in Scottish history, serving as the home of Mary, Queen of Scots.
What to See:
- State Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms used for official ceremonies and receptions, with a distinct Scottish flair.
- Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers: The historical rooms where Mary lived, including the site of the infamous murder of her secretary, David Rizzio.
- The Abbey: The ruins of Holyrood Abbey, founded in 1128, are atmospheric and steeped in history.
- The Gardens: The palace is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens that offer stunning views of Arthur’s Seat.
How to Get There:
- Location: Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, United Kingdom
- Public Transport: The palace is easily accessible from Edinburgh city center. The nearest train station is Edinburgh Waverley, and from there it’s a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride.
- Walking: The palace is situated at the end of the Royal Mile, making it easily accessible by foot from Edinburgh Castle and other central attractions.
Tickets and Tours:
- Tickets can be purchased online via the Royal Collection Trust website. Guided tours are available, and it’s particularly popular during the annual summer opening when the gardens are in full bloom.
- Sandringham House, Norfolk
Overview: Sandringham House, located in Norfolk, is the private residence of the British monarch and has been the royal family’s country retreat since 1862. The estate is particularly well-known as the place where the royal family spends Christmas.
What to See:
- The House: Visitors can explore the ground floor of the house, which is filled with family portraits, royal memorabilia, and luxurious furnishings.
- The Museum: The on-site museum showcases vintage cars, royal memorabilia, and the history of the estate.
- The Gardens: The extensive gardens are a highlight, featuring perfectly manicured lawns, a large lake, and beautiful woodland walks.
- The Church of St. Mary Magdalene: A historic church where the royal family attends services during their stay.
How to Get There:
- Location: Sandringham Estate, Sandringham, Norfolk PE35 6EN, United Kingdom
- Public Transport: The nearest train station is King’s Lynn, which has direct services from London King’s Cross. From King’s Lynn, Sandringham House is a short taxi or bus ride away.
- Driving: Sandringham is about a two-hour drive from London. Ample parking is available on the estate for visitors.
Tickets and Tours:
- Tickets are available on the Sandringham Estate website, with options for house, garden, and museum tours. The estate is usually open from spring to autumn, with special events around Christmas.
Tips for Visiting Royal Palaces
- Booking in Advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
- Check Opening Times: Some palaces, like Buckingham Palace, are only open to the public during specific times of the year.
- Guided Tours: Opting for guided tours can greatly enhance your experience, providing historical context and fascinating anecdotes about the royal family.
- Photography: Check the photography rules, as some palaces do not allow photos inside certain rooms.
- Dress Appropriately: While there is no strict dress code, wearing comfortable shoes is recommended, especially when visiting larger estates like Windsor Castle or Sandringham, which involve a lot of walking.
Visiting these royal palaces offers a fascinating journey into the history, culture, and traditions of the British monarchy. Whether you’re interested in the splendour of the architecture, the beautiful gardens, or the rich history that each palace embodies, these sites are sure to leave a lasting impression.