Top royal attractions in the UK

From the northern reaches of Scotland at a royal summer retreat to the oldest occupied castle in the world at Windsor, Britain is bursting to the battlements with places full of royal importance, all waiting to be discovered by you. So whether it’s a tour of exotic gardens, a trip to a royal pleasure palace or even an escape to the Isle of Wight, unlock Briton’s 1200-year old royal history today.

Explore an exotic Eden in Britain’s capital. Pick up the splendour behind the wheel of an iconic Rolls Royce, or simply get lose in an ancient maze, whatever it is, you’ll discover a Britain packed royal adventures. Here’s our low-down of how to get stuck into the nation’s top royal attractions.

Top royal attractions

From the grandeur of London-based Buckingham Palace to the remote Scottish escape at Balmoral Castle, the Royal Family have called some of the nation’s most beautiful buildings their home. Dive into the lives of the royals and experience the opulence of these official residences that regularly open to the public.

Buckingham Palace
On selected dates, Buckingham Palace opens its doors to visitors: your chance to explore the Royal Family’s iconic London home. Discover Buckingham Palace

Windsor Castle
Walk through 1,000 years of history at Windsor Castle, exploring its opulent state rooms and superb royal artefacts. Book tickets to Windsor Castle

Kensington Palace, London
The home to many a royal, from Queen Victoria, William III, to Queen Anne. Visit Kensington Palace

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, London
Step into more than 1,000 years of history at the setting of every coronation since 1066. Uncover history at Westminster Abbey

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey
Lose yourself in the famous Hampton Court Maze. Book now for a taste of Tudor life at Hampton Court Palace

Sandringham, Norfolk
Tour over 20,000 acres of Norfolk’s country retreat.Visit Sandringham House

Edinburgh Castle
Discover this dramatic fortress, perched on top of an extinct volcano at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle

Balmoral Castle
The Scottish holiday residence of the British Royal Family. Tour the historic gardens and estate of picturesque Balmoral Castle. Book tickets to Balmoral Castle

Tower of London
Get hands-on with history at this former palace and prison. It’s full of tales and treasures, including the Crown Jewels. Book your Tower of London tickets

The Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile
Welcome to the previous home of Mary, Queen of Scots, offering guided tours, royal exhibitions and opulent afternoon teas. Step inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Attractions of royal significance

Discover the Royal connections to these popular visitor attractions.

Lancaster Castle

Lancaster Castle
Tales of witchcraft and crime await at the King’s Northern Castle - take a tour through its medieval Well Tower or explore its collection of heraldic shields.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Connect with nature at London’s 300-acre Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, founded by King George III’s mother in 1759.

Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
Visit The Royal Mews from May until October to marvel at the State Coaches and the livery worn by Royal Coachmen.

Royal Albert Dock
The vibrant heart of the city, Royal Albert Dock is home to restaurants, museums, bars and the Tate Liverpool art gallery.

Royal Armouries Museum
This is the home of Britain’s biggest collection of weapons and armour – including Henry VIII’s battle outfit.

Royal Pavilion
Visit this 19th-century seaside ‘pleasure palace’ in the heart of Brighton to discover its colourful history.

Isle of Wight
Enjoy a coastal walk, or set sail round the Isle of Wight.

Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon Castle
More than 700 years old, Caernarfon Castle towers over the River Seiont in North Wales and among its turrets and settings is ram-packed with events.

Highgrove, Gloucestershire
Explore the vast gardens of this regal house in rural England.

Anglesey
With over 125 miles of unspoilt coastline, Anglesey is an outdoor playground for watersports.

Highland Games
With their one-of-a-kind sports, these traditional Scottish tournaments are the ‘Olympics of the Highlands’.

Windsor Great Park
Take a stroll on the famous Long Walk, or go deer-spotting in the meadows and woodlands – all with great views of Windsor Castle.

Royal cities

Open to the public, these historic homes make ideal day trips for royal fans everywhere. Choose to explore ornamental royal gardens, or step inside gold washed rooms - wherever you decide, you’ll be sure to gain insider knowledge of Britain’s royals.

• London 
• Windsor
• Edinburgh

For More Information: www.visitbritain.com/au/

*Source: Visit Britain, Australian and New Zealand Media Contact, Amelia Robertson: amelia.robertson@visitbritain.org