On Saturday, 6 May 2023, the United Kingdom will officially crown a new King! The coronation of King Charles will take place at Westminster Abbey in London. The day is sure to be filled with royal pomp and ceremony. The UK will enjoy a long weekend and numerous events, street parties and festivities are sure to take place in honour of the British monarchy’s royal milestone. While not everyone will be able to visit London to celebrate the royal event, London is home to several royal destinations that travellers can visit throughout the year. To celebrate the coronation, Expat Explore has put together a list of London’s top royal attractions!
Many travellers visit the UK and Ireland to visit famous royal landmarks. The region has a rich royal history that is oftentimes turbulent… just ask Henry VIII’s wives! This history can be experienced at numerous destinations across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland. Additionally, many people may be keen to visit London now that there is a new king! London is a travel hub and home to the British royal family’s most iconic residences. Take a look at the best places to experience royal history in London below!
8 Royal Destinations to visit in London:
Buckingham Palace & The Queen’s Gallery
Let’s start with a name many of us will know – Buckingham Palace! This is the King’s official London residence and an iconic British landmark. During a visit, amble up The Mall (the road that runs from Trafalgar Square tot he gates of Buckingham Palace), admire the facade of the historic building, keep an eye out for the flag (if its fully risen, it means the King is in residence) and if you time it right you may even be able to watch the Changing the Guard ceremony!
During selected dates in winter, spring and summer, you can visit the State Rooms on exclusive guided tours. See highlights like the White Room, the Throne Room, the Palace Gardens and more! You’ll also find the Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace which is open for most of the year (except Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Visit to see the changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection.
Tower of London
Located on the north banks of the River Thames in the east of the city is the historic Tower of London. The building has served many functions over the years including being a palace, fortress, prison and even a zoo! Today, it is a museum and houses the famous Crown Jewels. It also offers excellent views of the picturesque Tower Bridge. Join a Beefeater on a guided tour and learn more about the (rather bloody) history of the Tower of London. Find out more about its royal residents, discover the quirky tidbits of its past and marvel at the crown jewels!
Westminster Abbey
This UNESCO World Heritage Site has hosted many high profile royal events over the years! From coronations and weddings to royal funerals, images of milestone ceremonies from inside Westminster Abbey will be familiar to many of us. You can visit the beautiful church, which is located in the borough of Westminster (right near Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament!), and discover centuries-worth of British history. Wander alone and see the galleries or join a guided tour for extra insight. Virtual tours are also available.
Kensington Palace and Gardens
For a peaceful day out in west London, visit Kensington Palace and Gardens. Currently, this royal residence is officially home to the Prince and Princess of Wales (who many of us will know colloquially as Prince William and Kate Middleton) and their children. Another royal destination rich with history, Kensington Palace was the birthplace of Queen Victoria and has been home to young royals for centuries! Today, visitors can explore Kensington Palace and see the King’s State Apartments, the Queen’s State Apartment, exhibitions on the life of a young Queen Victoria and the Kensington Palace Gardens. You could even enjoy an afternoon tea in sumptuously royal surroundings!
St Paul’s Cathedral
Now for another famous place of worship that has hosted many notable royal events including weddings, memorials and jubilee celebrations! Do you recognise the large white dome of the cathedral? St Paul’s has featured in several blockbuster movies and TV series in its time. It’s definitely an iconic feature of the London skyline! Today, St Paul’s Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London and is open to the public for free daily services. Alternatively, explore more on guided or self-guided tours, see the art work and exhibitions, and learn more about the cathedral’s illustrious history.
Windsor Castle
If you’re a royal enthusiast and are keen on a day trip, head to Windsor Castle! This 11th-century castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world and it boasts over 1,000 years worth of royal history. The castle was Queen Elizabeth’s “weekend home” and the late monarch enjoyed the peacefulness of the lovely area of Windsor. You can visit Windsor Castle throughout most of the year (except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays). See highlights including St. George’s Chapel, the historic and ceremonial State Apartments, the Crimson Drawing Room, the Green Drawing Room and more!
Hampton Court Palace
Walk in the footsteps Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace! Located a +-30 minute train trip from central London in the royal borough of Richmond-upon-Thames, Hampton Court Palace is an opulent royal residence that is perhaps most famous for being home to Henry VIII and his many wives. On a visit, tour the historic halls and learn more about the Tudor Court while seeing the vast Tudor kitchen, the Great Room and more. A number of fairs and events are hosted at Hampton Court Palace throughout the year making it a great day out!
Keep an eye on the official website for more info on events.
Household Cavalry Museum
Interested in military history? This one is for you! You’ll find the Household Cavalry Museum located in Horse Guards in the “heart of ceremonial London” near the River Thames and St James Park. This living museum is the headquarters for the Household Division. Visit the museum for a behind the scenes look into the The Queen’s Mounted Bodyguard. This is also where you watch the historic tradition of the changing of the Queen’s Life Guard!
Can’t make it to London for the coronation? You can still experience the best of royal history and landmarks any time you visit London’s capital city! Take a look at Expat Explore tours that visit London and the UK.