Whether you're a royal fan or simply like soaking up a spot of culture, there are many beautiful royal palaces, castles and sites to visit across the UK – and what better excuse to visit than King Charles' coronation, taking place this May?
Walk among the beautiful grounds, absorb the centuries of history or see where your favourite couples tied the knot in our guide to the best royal venues to visit, here...
Buckingham Palace, London
Buckingham Palace, now the official residence of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla, is top of many a tourist sightseeing schedule. George III originally bought the palace for his wife, Queen Charlotte, in 1761 so it's been a central hub for senior royals centuries. It's open during the summer months, as well as for limited tours in December, January and at Easter every year.
Westminster, London, SW1A 1AA
Kensington Palace, London
Kensington Palace has been home to the royal family since the 17th century, but today, it's the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate. It was originally known as Nottingham House and is surrounded by acres of beautiful gardens. The palace is open daily, excluding 24-26 December every year, and often plays host to royal exhibitions. It is currently closed until 5 April in preparation for its new exhibit, Crown to Couture.
Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX
Balmoral Castle, Scotland
Balmoral Castle was first bought by Prince Albert in 1852 for Queen Victoria and has been the Scottish home of the royal family ever since. It was famously a favourite residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II, and where she chose to spend her final days. The castle is currently closed, however the grounds, gardens and exhibitions will open to the public on 1 April.
Balmoral Estates, Ballater AB35 5TB
Windsor Castle, Windsor
Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world – was first founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and has since then been home to 39 monarchs over the years. Queen Elizabeth II spent countless private weekends here and, of course, it was also the backdrop to many royal weddings, including that of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.
Windsor, SL4 1NJ
Hampton Court Palace, Richmond upon Thames
Located on the edge of the River Thames in Surrey, Hampton Court was a Tudor palace in the early 16th century and was once home to Henry VIII and his six wives. This stately venue should be top of your list if you're a fan of English history, picture-perfect gardens and beautiful architecture. The good news is that the palace is open all year round, except 24-26 December for Christmas.
Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
Westminster Abbey, Westminster
Westminster Abbey has been the location for some of the most memorable moments in royal history; the wedding of Prince William and Kate in 2011, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's 1947 nuptials, and now King Charles' coronation this spring. It's unsurprising that it boasts some of the most incredible architecture to see in the country's capital.
20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA
Tower of London, London
Built back in the 1070s by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London is rich in history and culture. It's famously used to house the crown jewels, so be sure to visit if you are a fan of all things royal and spectacular, historic gems.
The Tower of London, London, England EC3N 4AB
Highgrove House, Gloucestershire
Highgrove House in Gloucestershire has long been known as the private residence of King Charles and Camilla, the Queen Consort. The gardens are open for the public to visit and enjoy between April and October every year. Guests can stroll through the lush greenery, smell the famously beautiful flowers and pay a visit to the on-site shop.
Highgrove House, Doughton, Tetbury GL8 8TN
St Paul's Cathedral, London
Prince Charles and Princess Diana chose St Paul's Cathedral for their spectacular royal wedding in 1981. Explore the beautiful interiors of one of the most iconic buildings in London; climb the heights of the Golden Gallery, explore the lower Cathedral and visit the famous Whispering Gallery.
St. Paul's Churchyard, London, EC4M 8AD
Sandringham House, Norfolk
This private estate and much-loved country residence is owned by the royal family and is situated in Norfolk. Its land is rented out to tenant farmers, and an increasing number of crops are grown here organically, as the site consists of farmland, woods and orchards. Sandringham House was first opened to the public in 1977 in the Queen’s Silver Jubilee year and has been a popular visitor spot ever since. It's closed during the winter months (the royal family famously spends Christmas here), but the house, museum and gardens reopens for visitors on 1 April.
Sandringham, PE35 6EN
