From regal robes and crown jewels to sumptuous state apartments and ceremonial carriages, here's where to go in the capital for an insight into royal London throughout the ages.
Buckingham Palace is only open to visitors during the summer, but the other palaces, castles and venues below can be visited year round. To save money, book your royal attraction tickets in advance or buy a London Pass (which includes access to many of the venues).
Best Royal tours in London
Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, SW1A 1AA
From £32.00 (USD 40.79)
Tourist Bus Stop, King's Gallery, Buckingham Gate, London, SW1A 1AA
From £15.00 (USD 19.12)
Best Royal residences to visit in London
The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is a working stable, and home to the royal collection of historic coaches and carriages, as well as the cars used for state occasions. The most dazzling of all the coaches on display is the Gold State Coach, used as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002.
Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 1QH
From £17.00 (USD 21.67)
Tower Hill, City of London, London, EC3N 4AB
From £34.80 (USD 44.36)
Take a day trip to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, just half an hour from London by train. Visit the State Apartments and admire wonderful works of art from the Royal Collection. Don’t miss Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, the largest dolls’ house in the world.
Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ
From £28.00 (USD 35.70)
Join the one million people visiting Westminster Abbey each year, admire the gothic architecture, and step back in time to discover 700 years of turbulent history. The coronation Church of England, Westminster Abbey also witnessed the weddings of Queen Elizabeth II, and of Prince William to Kate.
20 Dean's Yard, London, SW1P 3PA
From £27.00 (USD 34.42)
Kensington Palace State Apartments, Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX
From £20.00 (USD 25.50)
The most famous resident of Hampton Court Palace was King Henry VIII. Each of his six wives stayed here; indeed, this is where he proposed to Jane Seymour. Follow the costumed guides as they bring the palace's 500 years of royal history to life. Then head outside, in the formal gardens, and have fun getting lost in the magnificent maze.
East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
From £26.30 (USD 33.53)
You've seen Changing the Guard, now look behind the scenes at the work that goes into the ceremonial duties and operational roles of the Household Cavalry. Watch troopers working with their horses in the original 18th-century stables, and browse a collection representing more than 300 years of military history.
Horse Guards, Whitehall, London, SW1A 2AX
From £10.00 (USD 12.75)
Dedicated to works of art from the Royal Collection, The King's Gallery (formerly The Queen's Gallery) was constructed in 1962 at Buckingham Palace, out of the bomb-damaged ruins of a chapel. In addition to gems from the Royal Collection, there's a changing programme of temporary exhibitions.
Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1A 1AA
From £19.00 (USD 24.22)
Located within lush botanical gardens, Kew Palace was the residence of George II's daughters, then family home of George III. Peek inside the most intimate of the royal palaces, where everything is just as it was during George's reign; the riot of colour in the authentically re-created rooms give you a real feel for the life of this royal family.
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AB
What Royal places can you visit in London?
London is a city rich with royal history and attractions showcasing the grandeur of the British monarchy. Many royal attractions provide a fascinating insight into the lives of British royals, both past and present. There are many royal places to visit in London, including:
- Buckingham Palace: During select dates in the summer, explore the official residence of King Charles III. Tour the lavishly furnished State Rooms, discover fine art and marvel at the Grand Staircase.
- Tower of London: Explore nearly 1,000 years of history at the Tower of London, which has served as a mighty fortress, royal palace and infamous prison.
- Kensington Palace: Visit the former home of Princess Diana, now the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and see seasonal exhibitions and explore the beautiful surrounding gardens.
- Westminster Abbey: Admire the iconic church that has hosted many royal weddings and coronations, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
- Hampton Court Palace: Marvel at the former home of King Henry VIII and take a glimpse into Tudor life. Explore the beautiful gardens and experience the historic Hampton Court Maze.
- Windsor Castle: Journey out of London and visit the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle.
- Royal Mews: See the extensive royal collection of historic coaches and carriages, including the dazzling Gold State Coach at the Royal Mews.
- Household Cavalry Museum: Learn about the ceremonial duties and operational roles of the Household Cavalry and explore more than 300 years of military history.
- Kew Palace: Experience a peaceful escape from the city at Kew Palace, the former retreat house for King George III and his family, nestled within the Royal Botanic Gardens.
