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100 Royal Things to do in the UK

100 Royal Things to do in the UK

April 14, 2011
  1. Balmoral Castle and Estate
    Take a tour around Balmoral Castle; a favourite summer residence of the Royal Family. As well as the castle, the estate itself covers 50,000 acres of heather clad hills and ancient Caledonian woodland.
  2. Buckingham Palace
    No trip to London is complete without peering through the gates of Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of Britain's sovereign. If you visit during the summer you can tour the State Rooms.
  3. Ceremony of the Keys
    Book ahead to watch the Ceremony of the Keys (the traditional locking-up of the Tower of London). It's happened every night for at least 700 years and is a fascinating piece of history to watch live in action.
  4. Windsor Castle
    Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, and one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history. It covers an area of 26 acres and contains, as well as a royal palace, a magnificent chapel.
  5. Changing the Guard
    The Changing the Guard ceremony takes place in front of Buckingham Palace at 11.30 every day in summer and every other day in winter. It's free to watch and provides a wonderful glimpse of British Royal pageantry.
  6. Edinburgh Castle
    Explore this astonishing castle fortress which dominates Edinburgh's skyline from its position atop the volcanic Castle Rock. Home to the Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewels), there are centuries of royal history to discover here.
  7. Hampton Court Palace
    Favourite stomping ground of the notorious King Henry VII, Hampton Court is the oldest Tudor palace in England and has endless attractions including the Tudor kitchens, its world-famous maze and the State and King's Apartments.
  8. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
    Explore 6 magnificent glasshouses, 300 acres of landscapes and 250 years of history at the world's most famous garden. Climb to the treetops, delve into rainforest or discover more on a guided tour of this famous World Heritage Site.
  9. St Paul's Cathedral
    Sir Christopher Wren's iconic domed masterpiece in the centre of London has been the venue for numerous Royal occasions including the Golden Jubilee and 80th Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen and the marriage of Price Charles and Lady Diana.
  10. Tower of London
    Spanning over 900 years of Royal history, the Tower of London has been a fortress, palace, prison, arsenal, garrison and menagerie! It houses the Crown Jewels, armouries, Yeoman Warders and the famous ravens making it must-see attraction.
  11. Palace of Holyroodhouse
    Visit the Queen's official residence in Scotland. Situated at the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse has many connections with Scotland's turbulent past, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived there in the 16th century.
  12. Royal Yacht Britannia
    All aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia! She's a beauty; a real floating palace. See the Queen's bedroom, the fabulous State Apartments, the crew's quarters and even the on-board garage housing one of Her Majesty's Rolls-Royces!
  13. St Andrews University
    Travel to this ancient Scottish university where Prince William met his bride-to-be. A William and Kate Tour would have to include a peek from outside at their joint hall of residence, St Salvator's, with its views over the Bay of St Andrews.
  14. Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
    The Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace is a permanent space dedicated to changing exhibitions of items from the Royal Collection. See Royal treasures galore!
  15. Victoria and Albert Museum
    Named after Queen Victoria and her husband, Albert, this spectacular museum is stuffed with treasures from all over the world. Don't miss the hoard of jewellery given to courtiers by Elizabeth I.
  16. Wimbledon Tennis Championship
    The most famous tennis tournament in the world is always a favourite of the Royal Family. See players bow to the Royal box before games and receive winners' trophies from senior Royals.
  17. Dover Castle
    Explore this historic fortress, built by Henry II, that has guarded Britain from invasion for nearly 900 years. It starred in the Other Boleyn Girl as the Tower of London.
  18. Clarence House
    The engagement announcement was made from Clarence House, office of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, where Kate and William gave their first joint interview. It opens for tours in summer.
  19. Chelsea Flower Show
    The Queen loves this annual explosion of colour and always takes time out to visit before the first day of the show in May. Follow in her footsteps to see a riot of blooms and the very latest in garden design.
  20. Regent's Park
    First used by Henry VIII as a hunting ground, this Royal Park is still a haven for rest and relaxation. Discover 410 acres of gardens, parkland, sports facilities, an open air theatre and more - all in the middle of London.
  21. Royal Ascot
    There's always a good chance of spotting the Queen and Prince Phillip in a horse-drawn carriage during the Royal procession at this most glamorous of horse races. Her Majesty has owned 20 winners over the years.
  22. Sandringham
    Sandringham is the much-loved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen, and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862. You can tour the estate in the spring and summer.
  23. Trooping the Colour
    The Queen's official birthday, Trooping the Colour is the biggest royal event of the year with Her Majesty the Queen always in attendance. Stand along the Mall to catch a glimpse of the Queen in her carriage and soak up the pageantry.
  24. Westminster Abbey
    Visit the place where monarchs are crowned and the venue for Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding. It's a world Heritage Site and burial place of scores of famous Britons including Isaac Newton, Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Darwin.
  25. Anglesey
    The young Windsors have announced their intention to begin their married life near his RAF base in Wales, and will live on the island of Anglesey. The island has some of the most stunning beaches in Britain.
  26. Royal Brighton Pavilion
    Tour this magnificent building, the favourite getaway of the Prince Regent later, King George IV. The Royal Pavilion is remarkable for its exotic oriental appearance both inside and out.
  27. Colman's Mustard
    Eat like a King (or Queen) with Colman's Mustard, the official supplier of mustard to the Royal household. But be careful, Colman's is hot stuff!
  28. Corfe Castle
    Explore this majestic ruin built by William I soon after his arrival in Britain in 1066. One of Britain's most romantic spots, it has a wonderful Royal history waiting to be discovered.
  29. Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
    Follow this Royal route that takes in four beautiful parks and the buildings and residences that Princess Diana made famous.
  30. Gieves and Hawkes Tailors
    With three Royal Warrants and a tradition of expertise dating back to the 18th Century, Gieves and Hawkes is the most famous tailor on London's Savile Row. They provide clothes for State Ceremonies and fashionable attire for the discerning gentleman.
  31. Royal Tunbridge Wells
    Explore this historic Spa Town that was granted a "Royal" title by King Edward VII to celebrate its popularity over the years amongst members of the Royal Family.
  32. Rugby at Twickenham
    Prince William and Harry are keen rugby supporters and are often seen watching international matches at Twickenham. Mike Tindall, the husband-to-be of the Queen's granddaughter, Zara Philips, is also a professional player for England.
  33. Hope Street, St Andrews
    See where Prince William and Kate Middleton shared a student house on Hope Street in St Andrews and then take a romantic stroll along the edge of the North Sea on West Sands.
  34. St James's Park
    Right in the middle of Royal London, St James's Park is a relaxing green space blessed with great views of Buckingham Palace and Horse Guards Parade.
  35. Stirling Castle
    See the story of the monarchy in Scotland unfold before your eyes at this majestic fortress that's been a royal stronghold, a regimental garrison and coronation site of several Scottish Kings and Queens including Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543.
  36. Syon House
    Syon House is the last surviving ducal residence complete with its country estate in Greater London. You'll spot several of its lavish interiors in the film the Madness of King George.
  37. Thornbury Castle
    Stay in this luxurious castle that once entertained kings and queens - Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn once walked the rooms and grounds. You can even stay in a room where they slept!
  38. Tintagel Castle
    Head to the wild and unspoiled cliffs of Tintagel to discover the mythical birthplace of King Arthur. Legend has it that this ancient king was born here and that the wizard Merlin lived in a cave nearby.
  39. Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness
    Robert the Bruce controlled this key castle after he became King of Scots and today you'll get a real sense of Urquhart's strategic importance. With commanding views over Loch Ness it's also beautifully sited.
  40. Wild Duck at Ewen
    Have a pint in this Gloucestershire pub frequented by Royals including Prince Harry. The story goes that Harry had a picture of Prince Charles removed from a wall overlooking his table as it put him off his food.
  41. Royal Armouries Leeds
    Explore the United Kingdom's national collection of arms and armour at Leeds and the Tower of London. See terrifying weaponry from all over the world including dazzling Royal pieces used by British monarchs.
  42. Royal Wedding Commemorative China
    Own a piece of history with an official piece of Royal Wedding China. The beautiful pieces, made in Britain's famous Stoke on Trent potteries, are on sale from The Royal Collection.
  43. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
    Visit the world famous historic ships at the home of the Royal Navy. Go aboard HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and see the Mary Rose Museum for a great day out in the South of England.
  44. Poundbury
    Visit the experimental urban village of Poundbury on the outskirts of Dorchester. It's built according to the principles of Prince Charles, who's known for holding strong views challenging the post-war trends in town planning.
  45. Richmond Park
    Richmond Park is the largest open space in London and a designated Royal Park. Don't miss the famous fallow and red deer that have been roaming the park since King Charles I used it as his hunting ground.
  46. Rock, Cornwall
    Sometimes known as "Chelsea-on-Sea", Rock is a famous seaside holiday resort in Cornwall and playground for the rich and famous. Needless to say, it's a favourite getaway destination for the younger royals.
  47. Royal Albert Hall
    This distinctive building is recognised the world over. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1871, the Royal Albert Hall was named after her deceased husband Prince Albert. Each year it hosts more than 350 stage performances including the world famous Proms.
  48. Royal Leamington Spa
    Leamington is best-known for its natural springs. Don't miss the magnificent Royal Pump Rooms and Baths which opened in 1814 attracting royal visitors hoping to soothe various ailments by bathing in the spa pools.
  49. Eton College
    William attended Eton College, a ten-minute stroll over the Thames from Windsor Castle. The College, founded in 1440 by King Henry VI to provide free education for 70 poor scholars, conducts guided tours during the holidays.
  50. Henley Royal Regatta
    Henley is a rowing event held every July on the River Thames by the town of Henley-on-Thames and is a highlight of the traditional English social calendar.
  51. Fortnum and Mason
    Fortnum and Mason has had royal connections for over 300 years, since William Fortnum became a footman to Queen Anne. It holds two royal warrants and is renowned for the quality of its tea and its tail-coated shop assistants.
  52. Frogmore House
    Set in Windsor's Home Park, Frogmore House is renowned for its beautiful landscaped garden and 18th-century lake and is where Queen Victoria is buried.
  53. Green Park
    The Green Park as it is known, is one of eight Royal Parks, and was first recorded in 1554 as the place where a rebellion took place against the marriage of Mary I to Philip II of Spain.
  54. Greenwich Park
    Greenwich Park is probably the oldest of the Royal Parks, first recorded in 1427, and part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site, home to the Meridian Line and Old Royal Observatory.
  55. Haddon Hall
    Haddon Hall is probably the finest example of a fortified medieval manor house in existence. Recently it has become a favourite film location, including being the backdrop for the film "Elizabeth".
  56. Hebridean Princess
    The Hebridean Princess has been hired by the Queen for her annual cruise round the Western Isles. See the Highlands and islands of Scotland from the luxurious comfort of the ship, which carries just 50 guests.
  57. Highgrove Shop
    The Highgrove Shops in Tetbury and Bath, sell exclusive branded gifts for the home and garden inspired by The Prince of Wales's estate.
  58. Hollow Bottom
    The Hollow Bottom at Guiting Power, in the Cotswolds is a 17th-century pub run by a consortium of jockeys, and is a favourite with Prince William's cousin Zara Phillips and friends.
  59. Household Cavalry Museum
    The Household Cavalry Museum is a living museum about real people doing a real job in a real place. You can see troopers working with horses in the original 18th-century stables and hear first-hand accounts of their rigorous and demanding training.
  60. Inverlochy Castle
    Nestling in the foothills of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle sits amidst some of Scotland's finest scenery - and you can stay there! Visiting in 1873, Queen Victoria spent a week sketching and painting and wrote 'I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot'.
  61. Jigsaw
    Kate Middleton worked in the Kew branch of the popular British boutique chain, Jigsaw. Their flagship store is at 126-7 New Bond Street, designed 15 years ago by the super-minimal architect John Pawson.
  62. Garrard & Co
    On Albemarle Street you'll find Garrard & Co, which claims to be the oldest jewellers in the world and was the source of Kate Middleton's famous sapphire and diamond engagement ring previously Princess Diana's.
  63. John Lobb Bootmaker
    Walk like a Royal and get your shoes made at this wonderful old boot maker, holder of a Royal Warrant since 1863.
  64. Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden
    This vast medieval fortress which became an Elizabethan palace is one of Britain's largest and has connections with many monarchs, especially Queen Elizabeth I, who visited her favourite, Robert Dudley while he lived there.
  65. Kensington Palace
    This was a favourite residence of successive sovereigns until 1760. It was also the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. Today Kensington Palace accommodates the offices and private apartments of a number of members of the Royal Family.
  66. Kensington Gardens
    Now a Royal Park, Kensington Gardens were once the private gardens of Kensington Palace. Remodelled by successive royals, today's gardens can be attributed to Queen Caroline, wife of King George II.
  67. Leeds Castle
    Near Maidstone in Kent, Leeds Castle is set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens, and is the result of 900 years of alterations and changes. It was a royal palace to the medieval and Tudor kings and queens of England.
  68. London Eye
    They say that on a clear day you can see around 40kms/25 miles from the top of The London Eye - as far as Windsor Castle in fact. So a perfect place to check out the Royal Wedding route.
  69. London nightclubs
    Kate and William's favourite clubs have included Boujis, in South Kensington, the tropical ambience of Mahiki in Mayfair and Whisky Mist off Park Lane.
  70. Madame Tussauds
    Visit Madame Tussauds to see waxworks of Princes William and Harry, the Prince of Wales and the Queen.
  71. The Mall
    Designed as a processional route from Admiralty Arch to Buckingham Palace The Mall has been packed with crowds on many memorable occasions and "balcony moments". It is frequently lined with colourful flags from around the world.
  72. Marlborough
    Kate Middleton went to school in the beautiful Wiltshire Downs, at prestigious public (private) school, Marlborough College. The school is not open to the public, but the town itself is pretty with two excellent tea-rooms.
  73. National Portrait Gallery
    To mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012, the National Portrait Gallery will bring together 60 images of Elizabeth II spanning the 60 years of her reign - some on public display for the first time.
  74. Notting Hill, London, England
    Remember little William in his red school tie, being dropped by his Mum at Wetherby School in Notting Hill, London? On Saturdays make your way here to Portobello Road Market for antiques, vintage and posh food.
  75. Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
    Originally established by Royal Charter in 1694 for the relief and support of seamen and their dependants, and planned by Sir Christopher Wren, the Old Royal Naval College later housed the Royal Naval College.
  76. Open top bus tour, London
    Check out the top royal locations in London with an open top bus tour. Hop on and hop off at palaces, squares, museums and galleries en route.
  77. Osborne House
    "It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot" wrote Queen Victoria after her first visit to this Isle of Wight seaside palace where she lived with her beloved Prince Albert and their nine children.
  78. Patey Hats
    Top hats, bowler hats, polo caps, and hats for shows including Evita, and Les Miserables: Royal warrant holders Patey have been making hats of all types for over 200 years.
  79. Penrhyn Castle
    Located between Snowdonia and the Isle of Anglesey, this enormous 19th-century neo-Norman castle is crammed with fascinating items, such as a one-ton slate bed made for Queen Victoria.
  80. Penshurst Place
    Once belonging to Henry VIII, Penshurst was used as a filming location for "The Other Boleyn Girl" (about the rivalry of Anne Boleyn, who became Henry's second wife, and her sister Mary).
  81. Chillingham Castle
    Once 'base-camp' for the 1298 conquering attack on William Wallace ("Braveheart") by King Edward 1, today it is visited as one of the most haunted stately homes in Britain.
  82. Chiswick
    Kate Middleton briefly rowed with a crew called The Sisterhood who practised on the Thames between Chiswick and Hammersmith. Chiswick is also one of London's prettiest riverside suburbs, while nearby Hammersmith is famous for its gorgeous riverside pubs.
  83. Cirencester Polo Club
    Princes William and Harry love polo and regularly play at the club in the Cotswolds, the most historic in Britain.
  84. 1066 Battle of Hastings: Abbey & Battlefield
    Discover the birthplace of English history, where the infamous Battle of Hastings was fought between William Duke of Normandy and the Saxon King Harold in 1066. The quaint town of Battle now stands where William the Conqueror built a great Abbey following his victory.
  85. Airth Castle
    Be King or Queen for the night with a stay at Airth Castle Hotel. Tucked away in the Scottish Heartlands on William the Conqueror's old stomping grounds, the 17th-century castle is framed with traditional turrets and surrounded by perfectly manicured grounds.
  86. Albert Memorial
    Recently repaired in a conservation project by English Heritage, this gleaming gold statue memorial was commissioned by Queen Victoria following the death of her beloved husband, Prince Albert.
  87. Amberley Castle
    Built in 1100, the castle has been visited by many royals including Henry VIII and Elizabeth II. Set in West Sussex and briefly owned by the Duke of Norfolk, the castle is now houses a luxury hotel.
  88. Arundel Castle
    This spectacular castle is the current home of the Duke and Duchess of Norfolk, but is open to visitors year-round. It has been featured in many films, including Young Victoria and The Madness of King George.
  89. Asprey
    With locations in 2 of London's most fashionable neighbourhoods, Asprey holds a Royal Warrant bestowed by Queen Victoria in 1862 and is a premier British maker of luxury goods including leather, jewellery, china, and glass.
  90. Aston Villa Football Club
    Make sure to dress in claret and blue for the trip to Aston Villa in Birmingham to cheer on Prince William's favourite team in Barclays Premier League.
  91. Banqueting House Whitehall
    The only remaining structure after Whitehall Palace burned in 1698, Banqueting House has been the backdrop for major events in British Royal history including the beheading of Charles I!
  92. Beaufort Polo Club
    Head to the Cotswolds for a good gallop at the polo club that has been patronised by Prince Charles since it opened in 1989 and where Prince William and Prince Harry play regularly.
  93. Beaumaris
    Nestled on the banks of the Menai Strait, the historic town of Beaumaris on the Isle of Anglesey is nearby the cottage Prince William and his soon-to-be bride share together.
  94. Borthwick Castle
    Find this twin-towered fortress in the rolling green hills of Scotland. Steeped in history, the castle is said to be haunted by a servant girl from the time of Lord Bothwick, who hosted Mary Queen of Scots on her honeymoon.
  95. Braemar Gathering
    Her Majesty the Queen is patron of the Highland Games in Braemar (the Braemar Gathering). The celebration is loud and boisterous, featuring traditional Highland dancing and sports competitions (and the requisite bagpiping!).
  96. Caernarfon Castle
    Towering above this pre-Roman town's picturesque harbour, the medieval fortress at Caernarfon was built by Edward I and offers beautiful views of the Menai Strait, the Isle of Anglesey and the Irish Sea beyond.
  97. Carisbrooke Castle
    Best known as the site where Charles I was imprisoned, this beautifully-preserved stone castle was built in 1100. While there, catch a daily demonstration by the Carisbrooke donkeys, which still operate the tread wheel in the Elizabethan wheelhouse.
  98. Royal Variety Performance
    Get tickets for this fantastic annual event where you can see Britain's top musicians, comedians and variety performers. Every year the senior royals watch the show which supports charities around Britain.
  99. Royal Botanical Gardens Edinburgh
    Just one mile from city centre, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers visitors peace and tranquillity amongst 72 acres of stunning scenery. Founded in 1670, the Garden is acknowledged to be one of the finest in the world.
  100. Castell Coch
    Step into the pages of a fairytale with a visit to Castell Coch. This Gothic Revival castle is nothing less than magical; the perfect setting to image William and Kate's "happily ever after"...

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