Rich in fascinating royal history and magnificent architecture, the UK never fails so amaze and astonish its visitors. The bloodline of the British monarchy can be traced back over 1,200 years with incredible accuracy and, astoundingly, dozens of iconic buildings from across Britain’s full royal history are still standing today.
What better way to learn more about some of Britain’s most revered monarchs than by walking in their footsteps? Experiencing firsthand the key locations from the lives of Britain’s most esteemed Kings and Queens grants visitors the opportunity to gain a true insight into the lives led by past monarchs and immerse themselves in centuries of British heritage and culture.
To experience a tangible connection to some of Britain’s most historic monarchs, read on for the top places to visit and explore in and around London.
King Henry VIII (1509—1547)
Born in Greenwich in June 1491, Henry VIII holds a significant place in British royal history. He took the throne at the age of seventeen and was the first English ruler of the House of Tudor. Aside from his aspirations of grand military achievements in northern France, Henry VIII is best known for his creation of the Church of England and his infamous string of six wives.
Hampton Court Palace
Located in Richmond upon Thames, Hampton Court Palace was used by Henry VIII to demonstrate his nobility and splendor. From extravagant court life and elaborate banquets to the palace’s gorgeous gardens and opulent architecture, Hampton Court Palace was intended to impress.
However, Hampton Court Palace was also the place Henry VIII’s third and favorite wife, Jane Seymour, died giving birth to his longed-for son, and the place his fifth wife, Katherine Howard, was arrested for adultery and treason.
Tower of London
This imposing fortress of magnificent white stone carries a fascinating history spanning almost 1,000 years. Built in the 1070s by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London is best known today for the part it played in Tudor history.
Notoriously, Henry VIII’s second and fifth wives, Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard, were both taken to the Tower of London following their arrest and beheaded on Tower Green within the Tower of London. Lady Jane Grey, who presided as Queen of England for just nine days, met the same fate by the hands of Henry VIII’s eldest daughter, Queen Mary I, who subsequently claimed the throne from her.
Today, at the very site of these executions, tourists can visit the memorial sculpture erected in memory of those condemned to death by the state. All 23,000 precious stones that make up the Crown Jewels can also be viewed at the Tower of London, which is now recognised and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
St. George’s Chapel
Following his death in 1547, King Henry VIII was buried at St. George’s Chapel beside his third and favorite wife, Jane Seymour. Several other British monarchs are also buried at the site including Edward IV, Henry VI, Charles I, Edward VII, Queen Alexandra, George V, and Queen Mary.
Queen Victoria (1819—1901)
Born at Kensington Palace in May 1819, Queen Victoria is the second longest reigning British monarch in history, having reigned as Queen for over 63 years. She ascended to the throne at the age of eighteen and is associated with Britain’s great age of industrial expansion, economic progress, and the later stages of the British Empire. Queen Victoria was the last monarch of the House of Hanover.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace became the official London residence of the British monarchy in 1837 when Queen Victoria began her reign. She moved to Buckingham Palace from the smaller Kensington Palace due to it being a more private, larger, and generally more suitable royal residence. From this point, Buckingham Palace became a symbol of the monarchy’s power and the future of the British Royal Family.
Today, Buckingham Palace is the official London royal residence of the British monarchy, serving as both a working royal palace and the ceremonial headquarters of the monarchy. It is an instantly recognizable, beloved symbol of the British Royal Family. Despite often being in use for the official events and receptions held by The King, the State Rooms, East Wing, and Garden of Buckingham Palace are open to visitors every summer.
Royal Mausoleum, Frogmore
Located at Frogmore House, just south of Windsor Castle in Windsor Home Park, the Royal Mausoleum is the final resting place of Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert. During her lifetime, Queen Victoria had a great affection for Frogmore and visited regularly during her long widowhood.
If you would like a tour of London, the historic royal palaces, Stone Henge or other locations then book a tour with us!
