Five Royal Attractions Waiting To Be Discovered

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee has piqued our interest in the Royal Family in many ways. From learning more about their lives to taking part in the big lunches for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, many of us are looking for ways to learn more about the British monarchy. Sometimes the best way of doing this is by travelling to one of the many royal attractions. Below we present to you five of the top royal attractions around the UK which are waiting to be explored

Balmoral

Located within a splendid rural setting in Aberdeenshire sits the Queen’s private estate at Balmoral. Surrounded by the Dee river valley and scenic rocky mountains, the Queen spends her summer here every year.  Balmoral is open every year between April and August and its Ballroom can be visited on guided tours. What’s more, the gardens are also open to visitors. But the best part is visitors can also choose to stay on the estate by renting any of the cottages.

Hampton Court Place

Located in Richmond and dating back to the 16th century, the magnificent Hampton Court Palace in Richmond, London was once called home by Henry VIII. Today visitors come here to wander around the royal residence and step back into the times of the Tudors. Some look for a more adventurous and daring experience by stepping into the Haunted Gallery and getting lost in the famous Hampton Court Maze. Be sure to give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate what this palace has to offer.

Osborne House

One of the most visited attractions on the Isle of Wight, Osborne House was one of Queen Victoria’s family homes. The area and the house are both so remarkable that it prompted Queen Victoria to say, “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot.” Visitors can step into Victoria and Albert’s apartment and meander through the garden terraces. Alternatively, you can wander through the corridors of the house and witness breathtaking Indian décor in the Durbar Room.

Sandringham

Ever wondered where the Queen spends her Christmas? Well, you got it right! It’s right here in the Sandringham House and Estate. One of the Queen’s favourite houses, it has eight rooms which are open to visitors. The parkland is open to visitors all year round and the house is open between April and October. Located in Norfolk, the house was once described as ‘the most comfortable house in England.’

Windsor Castle

Located in London and within close reach of Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle acts as a quick getaway spot for the Queen. Many agree that it has now become her main place of residence. With splendid views of the gardens of the East Lawn Terrace, the Windsor Castle is known to be the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world. Home to British kings and queens for almost 1000 years, here you can ride a horse-drawn carriage to get an authentic experience of being treated like a member of the royal family.

Image Credit – Annie Spratt, Unsplash