London is a city steeped in royal history, offering travellers a chance to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the British monarchy.
The royals remain a popular draw for international travellers to London. And if you’re one of the millions heading to London this year on a trip, and the royals are the main reason you’re heading to the city, then let us help guide you to the biggest and best royal attraction in the greatest city on earth.
Go inside the palaces, walk the famous gardens, visit royal memorial tributes and even visit the resting place of the late Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana.
Royal Things to Do in London
London travel guide to exploring everything Royal!
Visit Buckingham Palace
No trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. During the summer months (July to September), the State Rooms are open to the public, allowing you to explore the opulent interiors where the Queen hosts official events.
Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a quintessential royal experience that takes place several times a week. This colourful display of British pageantry features guards in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, accompanied by a military band.
Buckingham Palace is the most iconic of the royal palaces and even if you don’t want to pay to go inside, we’d suggest strolling down to the palace to grab a snap outside the famous royal gates.
Explore the Tower of London
The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cornerstone of British royal history. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this historic fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Today, it houses the Crown Jewels, a dazzling collection of regalia used in coronations and royal ceremonies. Be sure to join a guided tour led by the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) to hear fascinating tales of intrigue, betrayal, and execution.
Step Inside Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is one of the most significant royal sites in London, having hosted every coronation since 1066. This Gothic masterpiece is also the final resting place of many monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots. Take a self-guided audio tour to admire the stunning architecture, the Coronation Chair, and the Poets’ Corner, where literary giants like Charles Dickens are commemorated.
It’s a must-stop for Princess Diana and Prince William fans. Here is where Diana’s funeral was held in 1997 and its where her son William married in 2011.
Wander Through Kensington Palace
Located in the heart of Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace is a royal residence with a rich history. It was the childhood home of Queen Victoria and the former residence of Princess Diana. Today, visitors can explore the King’s State Apartments, the Queen’s State Apartments, and exhibitions showcasing royal fashion and history.
The surrounding gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, with the Sunken Garden and Princess Diana Memorial Garden being royal fan favourites. The Sunken Garden is where the statue of Diana is placed, and is also where Harry and Meghan made their engagement announcement.
The Sunken Garden was said to be a favourite place of Diana’s – she would jog past the gardens every morning.
Hyde Park is also home to the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain and a short walk to Diana’s former flat in the Colehere Court (south Kensington) where you’ll find a blue plaque outside.
Discover the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace
The Royal Mews is a working stable that houses the royal family’s collection of historic carriages and cars. Highlights include the Gold State Coach, used for coronations, and the sleek Bentley State Limousine.
The Mews also cares for the Windsor Greys and Cleveland Bays, the horses used in royal processions. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into royal transportation is both educational and fascinating.
Attend a Royal Ceremony or Event
If your visit coincides with a royal event, such as Trooping the Colour (the King’s official birthday parade) or the State Opening of Parliament, you’re in for a treat. These events offer a rare opportunity to witness the pomp and circumstance of the British monarchy. Check the royal family’s official website for event schedules and ticket information.
These events do get busy with tourists, so be aware of potential pickpockets and make sure you get their early to get a good view.
Shop for Royal Souvenirs
No royal-themed trip is complete without a visit to the Royal Collection Shop near Buckingham Palace or the Tower of London Gift Shop. Here, you can find everything from replica crowns to commemorative china, making for perfect keepsakes or gifts.
Royal things to do outside of London
There are key royal residences and monuments outside of London, some of the most famous are in Scotland and Wales but a little closer to the capital there are three royal trips we’d strongly recommend you visit.
Hampton Court Palace is in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Experience the public dramas and private lives of Henry VIII, his wives and their children in the world of the Tudor court. Admire Henry’s Great Hall and Tudor kitchens, and discover the spectacular baroque palace built for William III and Mary II. Explore 60 acres of magnificent gardens and the popular Magic Garden adventure playground. This palace is a real gem for history lovers.
Windsor Castle – favourite of the late Queen Elizabeth II (and where she’s buried) and former home of Prince Harry and Meghan, is only a short train journey away from London. Next to Windsor Castle is Eton College – the school Prince William and Prince Harry attended as teenagers.
We’d also suggest visiting Althorp Estate, the childhood home and resting place of Princess Diana. The grounds open for visitors on July 1 (Princess Diana’s birthday) and close 31 August (the date of her death) every year. You can’t visit Diana’s grave but you can see it from across the lake. There is also a memorial for Diana that visitors can enjoy.
Experience Hampton Court Palace
While slightly outside central London, Hampton Court Palace is well worth the trip. This magnificent Tudor palace was the favourite residence of King Henry VIII. Explore the Great Hall, the Royal Chapel, and the Haunted Gallery, where the ghost of Catherine Howard is said to roam. The palace’s Hedge Maze and Baroque Gardens are perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Pay Tribute to Princess Diana at Althorp Estate
For those interested in the life and legacy of Princess Diana, a visit to Althorp Estate in Northamptonshire is a must. This stately home has been the Spencer family’s residence for over 500 years and is where Princess Diana spent her childhood. The estate features an exhibition dedicated to her life, showcasing personal belongings, photographs, and memorabilia. Diana is buried on the grounds, on a tranquil island in the Round Oval Lake.
The estate is open to the public during the summer months (July and August), offering a poignant and reflective experience.
Visit Windsor Castle
A short train ride from London, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. It has been a royal residence for over 900 years and is a favorite weekend retreat for the Queen. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, adorned with priceless artworks, and St George’s Chapel, the final resting place of monarchs including Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth II.
Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place here as well. The castle’s sprawling grounds and picturesque town make it a perfect day trip.
There’s plenty of picture perfect places to eat in Windsor, as well as green spaces to enjoy if you need to step away from the busyness of exploring.
