2022 marks 70 years since Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne, making her Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. And what better way to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee than by learning more about the Royal Family in London?
From castles to museums, the capital city is full of incredible royal attractions that offer an insight into the history of the British monarchy.
Some of the best royal attractions in and around London include:
Read on as we take you through each attraction in a little more detail and help you plan an unforgettable day out in London.
There’s no better place to begin a royal London tour than at Buckingham Palace – the official residence of the Queen of England. This spectacular building is made up of 775 rooms in total and has been the home of monarchs since the mid-19th century.
Buckingham Palace will be open to the general public from July until October this year. Visitors can look around the State Rooms – home to treasures from the Royal Collection – and join a guided tour around the palace’s gardens. Other highlights include The Queen’s Gallery and the Royal Mews. Take a look at our hotels near Buckingham Palace for a memorable stay
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
One of the best areas to see in Buckingham Palace is The Queen’s Gallery, originally designed as one of Buckingham Palace’s three conservatories. In 1843, it was converted into a private chapel for Queen Victoria but was destroyed during an air raid in 1940.
The chapel was transformed into a gallery for the Royal Collection in 1962. It has since undergone a £20 million expansion and was opened by The Queen in 2002 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations. Today, visitors can look around The Queen’s Gallery and marvel at old master paintings, old furniture, and other impressive artefacts.
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
The Royal Mews is a range of equestrian stables owned by the Royal Family. It’s responsible for the training of the horses that pull the royal carriages and for looking after the cars used by The Queen during state occasions.
The Royal Mews is open to the general public from May to October this year. Some its highlights include the Gold State Coach and the Diamond Jubilee State Coach. Join a guided tour and learn even more about this wonderful royal attraction.
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
Situated about a mile from Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace is the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Parts of the palace are open for the general public to explore, such as the King’s State Apartments and the Queen’s State Apartments.
You can also take a look around Kensington Gardens and enjoy tasty refreshments at the Kensington Palace Pavilion and Tea Room.
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
The Household Cavalry Museum is one of London’s most historic buildings, located within Horse Guard in Central London. It is a living museum where visitors can learn all about the work of the Household Cavalry and watch troopers tending to their horses in the stables. From uniforms to musical instruments, the museum is full of fascinating artefacts related to the Household Cavalry’s operational duties.
The Household Cavalry Museum is within easy walking distance of Trafalgar Square and Parliament Square.
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
The Tower of London is one of the capital city’s most famous royal attractions. Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this medieval fortress has served many purposes throughout its long history, including a menagerie and a prison.
The Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels, a collection of over 23,000 dazzling gemstones. The Crown Jewels are part of the Royal Collection and are considered the most significant symbols of the nation’s monarchy. You’ll find them in the Jewel Tower – which is open for the general public to visit.
Another of the Tower of London’s highlights is the White Tower, which houses the Line of Kings Exhibition. Here, you can learn about the different armour and weaponry used by kings throughout history.
And to make the most of your time at this attraction, join a guided tour led by one of the Yeoman Warders, the Tower’s official guardians.
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
Hampton Court Palace is the perfect place to learn more about Henry VIII and the world of the Tudor Court. Situated on the bank of the River Thames, this Grade I listed building was built by Thomas Wolsey and later became Henry VIII’s favourite residence. Today, it’s full of all sorts of treasures and artefacts.
Must-visit areas of the palace include the Haunted Gallery, the Baroque Palace and the Tudor kitchens. Visitors can also wander around 60 acres of beautiful gardens home to a diverse range of wildlife.
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
For a brilliant day out, hop on a train from London Paddington and visit Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Founded in the 11th century, Windsor Castle is the largest occupied castle in the world and has been the residence of 39 monarchs.
This historic building is open to visitors all year round. Take a look inside and visit unique areas such as the Moat House and the Semi-State Rooms.
Find out about opening times and book your tickets here.
Planning a trip to London this year? Our Leonardo London Royal Hotels offer the perfect home away from home during your stay. We have hotels in three locations across the capital city – Tower Bridge Hotel, London City Hotel and St Paul’s Hotel. Book now to enjoy a comfortable, spacious room, brilliant restaurants and outstanding health and leisure facilities.
