If you have an interest in history, architecture or the British Royal family, there are so many destinations in London and the UK you should see.
Maybe you’ve long had a fascination with the Royals, possibly you’ve watched the Netflix series The Crown, by visiting the UK you’ll get to explore and learn more about Britain’s rich royal heritage and see some really spectacular buildings and locations.
There are also lots of places you can visit, in the capital of the England and further afield.
To make planning easier, we have put together a guide to the best places to visit in the UK for a true royal experience.
1. Buckingham Palace, London
Buckingham Palace is not only a London landmark but the official London residence of the British monarch. UK
The palace has 19 state rooms that are open for public viewing each summer, from late July to early October, with complimentary audio tours. The Changing of the Guard takes place every other day, and daily in the summer, in front of the palace.
Every summer there is the chance to explore the gardens, and also see exhibitions. Previously you could have seen the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, which was on display inside the palace.
If you really want to treat yourself and enjoy a proper royal experience, view our guide to the most lavish hotels in London.
2. Windsor Castle, Windsor, England
Just a quick train ride from London, Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, one of the previous Queen’s official residences and where she spent most weekends. London
Open year-round, an adult ticket costs £28 which gives visitors access to the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and special exhibitions.
There is also a tour allowing visitors to climb to the top of the world-famous Round Tower, to the height of 65.5 metres above the River Thames, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Castle and Windsor Great Park, the Thames Valley and the London skyline.
This really is one of the best places day trips from London.
3. Kensington Palace, London
A royal residence in central London, Kensington Palace is the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It was also the official residence of the Duke’s mother, Princess Diana.
The Palace has undergone a major transformation over the decades, to help visitors to better understand both the tales of the people that lived in the palace and its architectural and decorative schemes.
By visiting you can see the Palace’s magnificent state apartments and also exhibitions. You can also experience the “Enchanted Palace” a series of installations offering a fascinating interpretation of the palace’s hidden stories.
When visiting Kensington Palace be sure to go see the Princess Diana Memorial Garden which is one of the best places to visit in Hyde Park. Be sure to also drink some tea at The Orangery Restaurant next door to Kensington Palace, which has some of the finest selections of tea in London.
4. The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh, Scotland
The Royal Yacht Britannia is a wonderful attraction to visit straight out of a royal fairy tale — this is where the Prince of Wales and Princess Diana honeymooned in 1981.
During the 44 years that this ship served its country, The Royal Yacht Britannia carried the Royal Family on 968 official voyages all over the world.
Now the ship is permanently docked in Edinburgh, where visitors can tour five of the ship’s decks. An adult ticket costs £18.50 and includes an audio tour.
5. Tower of London, London
Visitors wishing to see the Crown Jewels can do so at the Tower of London, where the 23,578 gems that make up the Crown Jewels, including the glistening Imperial State Crown, are housed.
The tower is steeped in history, having been used as a royal residence, military fortress and prison.
Today, visitors enjoy touring the grounds and seeing The White Tower, Medieval Palace, prisoners exhibition and more as well as keeping an eye out for the ghost of Queen Anne Boleyn, who is buried in the chapel of St Peter ad Vincula.
6. Balmoral Estate, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
One of the past Queen’s favourite summertime retreats was the Balmoral Estate, set amongst the magnificent scenery of Royal Deeside.
Here, visitors might spot the King – since travelers can take up residence by renting a lovely cottage on the estate. The grounds, gardens and exhibitions are open to the public from April 1 to July 30.
7. Westminster Abbey, London
A royal trip to Britain would not be complete without visiting the historic Westminster Abbey which has served as the venue for coronations since 1066 and also held the wedding of Prince William and Catherine, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, in April, 2011.
Visitors to Westminster Abbey can see the graves of 17 monarchs, as well as memorials to many notable figures in British history. In addition, the Coronation Chair is part of the Abbey’s museum, along with pieces of art, stained glass, textiles and more.
The Abbey is open to the public six days a week and an adult ticket costs £19.00.
8. Highgrove House, Cotswolds, England
A visit to Highgrove House, the family home of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, should not be missed while in England.
The garden is open for tours from April to October and the cost is £16.50, although pre-booking is essential.
In the nearby village of Tetbury, visitors can pop into the Highgrove shop and browse a variety of home and garden products that reflect (and benefit) The Prince’s Charities Foundation.
9. The Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, Scotland
The Palace of Holyroodhouse was Queen Elizabeth’s official residence in Scotland.
Situated at the end of the Royal Mile, in Edinburgh, the palace has many connections with Scotland’s turbulent past, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived there in the 16th century.
An adult ticket costs £18 including audioguide, or for £8.50 you can visit the Queen’s Gallery which brings together some of the finest treasures from the Royal Collection, with a selection of 100 outstanding works.
If you have time be sure to try to go see the stunning Scottish Highlands, this is one of the best places to go walking in the United Kingdom with amazing scenery.
10. Sandringham Estate, Norfolk, England
Sandringham Estate, near Kings Lynn in Norfolk was one of the Queen’s most beloved retreats.
It has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862, and the Queen used to visit the estate every year on the anniversary of her father’s death.
Today, travellers are welcome to Sandringham House and can walk through the beautiful gardens during the summer.
11. Isle of Anglesey, Wales
Anglesey is one of the most alternative places included on our list, and featured because it is where Prince William and Catherine, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, once called home.
The Isle of Anglesey is known for its natural beauty and it has some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. Visitors to the Isle of Anglesey can enjoy a visit to one of its many beaches or stroll along one of the coastal footpaths for a wonderful view of the Welsh coastline.
Beaumaris Castle is an essential stop off for any Anglesey itinerary, this is the last and largest of King Edward I’s Welsh fortifications, is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although construction was never completed, it is regarded as Wales’ finest castle.
For a tasty lunch, travellers can track down The Flaming Grill, a food truck that Prince William frequented during his training at the Royal Air Force Academy. Prince William was so impressed by that he gave it a royal seal of approval.
Plan Your Royal Break to the UK
The United Kingdom has so many amazing destinations and things to do, and if you love the Royal family, you really are spoilt for choice. Hopefully our list has given you ideas for where to go, now go see these places for yourself.
