10 Royal Places to Discover in London
Britain's royal story is not locked away in museums. It continues today, in palaces that are still working residences, parks that were once private hunting grounds, and ceremonies that have run for centuries. These are ten places where you can stand inside that story.
1. Buckingham Palace
The monarch's official London residence since 1837. Watch the Changing of the Guard, and in late summer walk through the State Rooms when the palace opens to visitors.
2. Westminster Abbey
The coronation church of England for almost a thousand years. Seventeen monarchs are buried here, alongside poets, scientists and statesmen.
3. The Tower of London
Fortress, palace and prison. Home of the Crown Jewels, the Yeoman Warders and nine hundred years of royal drama.
4. Kensington Palace
Birthplace of Queen Victoria and today a working royal residence. The King's State Apartments and gardens are open year round.
5. St James's Palace
The senior palace of the Crown, built by Henry VIII. It is not open to visitors — but its Tudor gatehouse and courtyards are best seen with a guide who knows the stories behind them.
6. Horse Guards Parade
The ceremonial heart of royal London, where Trooping the Colour marks the monarch's official birthday each June.
7. The Mall & Admiralty Arch
London's processional avenue, laid out as a memorial to Queen Victoria. Every state visit and royal wedding passes along it.
8. The Royal Parks
St James's Park, Green Park, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens were once royal hunting grounds. Today they are the city's great green rooms — and full of royal monuments.
9. Banqueting House, Whitehall
The last surviving piece of the Palace of Whitehall, with a ceiling painted by Rubens — and the site of Charles I's execution in 1649.
10. Hampton Court Palace
Henry VIII's great Tudor palace, a short train ride from central London. Kitchens, courtyards, gardens and the famous maze.
Our Westminster & Royal London walking tour covers the heart of this story.