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Discover Royal London: In the footsteps of the British monarchy
London is a city steeped in history, tradition and royal splendour – and the heart of the British monarchy! Nowhere else can you feel the royal glamour as closely as in the British capital with its historic castles and palaces. For centuries, kings and queens have shaped the cityscape, architecture and culture of the British capital. When you're out and about here, you're literally walking in the footsteps of history – past magnificent palaces, venerable churches and imposing fortresses. Everywhere you go, you'll encounter traces of the monarchy, places where coronations, reigns, marriages and history were made. A trip through London automatically becomes a journey through the history of the British royal family. Royal fans will get their money's worth here. In this article, we'll introduce you to the most important places to visit, what to expect there and how best to get there.
Buckingham Palace: Official Residence of The King
Buckingham Palace is probably the most famous symbol of the monarchy. This is where the British monarch resides in the heart of London. Even from the outside, the huge façade with its famous balcony, from which the royals wave on special occasions, is impressive.
An absolute highlight is the Changing of the Guard in front of the palace gates. Several times a week, the Garden Guards march solemnly in front of the palace in their red uniforms and bearskin hats. Music, precision and tradition make for a truly spine-tingling experience – a classic among London's sights that no royal trip to London should be without.
A look inside
During the summer months (July–September), the doors to the magnificent State Rooms are opened. Visitors stroll through huge ballrooms, ornately decorated reception rooms and galleries displaying magnificent masterpieces from the Royal Collection. Golden chandeliers, historic furniture and precious paintings immerse you in the luxury of royal life. Tickets should be booked in advance as they often sell out quickly.
Getting there
The palace is centrally located: take the underground to Victoria, Green Park or St James's Park – from there it is only a few minutes' walk.
Tip: Even if you can't get in, it's worth taking a walk around the palace, combined with St James's Park – one of London's royal parks with a view of the palace.
Kensington Palace: The Royals Up Close
Less ostentatious, but more personal: Kensington Palace is located in the beautiful Kensington Gardens and was the residence of numerous royals, including Princess Diana. Compared to Buckingham Palace, it feels more personal and intimate. Today, parts of the palace are open to visitors.
Inside, you'll find exciting exhibitions about the lives of former monarchs, magnificent chambers and moving insights into Diana's history. The exhibitions featuring original dresses, photos and personal stories are particularly impressive.
After your visit, Kensington Gardens are the perfect place to take a stroll and relax – ideal for a short break in the countryside.
Getting there
The palace is located in the middle of Kensington Gardens, perfect for a walk or a picnic. It is easily accessible by the Circle, District or Central underground lines (High Street Kensington or Queensway stations) and several bus routes.
Tower of London: Crown Jewels & Dark Secrets
The Tower of London is one of the most fascinating places in the city. Once a royal palace, prison and place of execution, today it is home to the famous Crown Jewels – one of the most valuable collections of royal regalia.
Here you can see the real crowns, sceptres and orb that are still used in coronations today. The guided tours with the famous Beefeaters are particularly exciting, as they tell of betrayal, intrigue and tragic fates.
Location
Right on the Thames, underground to Tower Hill. Ideal to combine with a walk across the nearby Tower Bridge.
Westminster Abbey: Coronations, Weddings & Royal Tombs
Westminster Abbey is one of the most important places in the British monarchy. Almost all kings and queens have been crowned here since 1066. It is also the burial place of numerous monarchs and famous personalities.
The Abbey received worldwide attention in 2011 with the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Upon entering, you can feel the centuries-old history: Gothic arches, huge stained glass windows and ornate tombstones create a unique atmosphere.
How to get there
Right next to Westminster underground station, next to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
St Paul's Cathedral: Wedding Church of Charles & Diana
The legendary fairytale wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana took place in 1981 in the majestic St Paul's Cathedral. It is still considered the ‘wedding of the century’ today.
The cathedral was chosen because it is significantly larger than Westminster Abbey and could accommodate over 3,500 guests. Today, you can climb the huge dome, visit the famous Whispering Gallery and enjoy breathtaking views of London from the viewing platform.
Hampton Court Palace: Pure Tudor Glamour
Just outside the city centre, but highly recommended, is Hampton Court Palace, once the residence of King Henry VIII. In this huge palace on the banks of the Thames, you'll feel like you're in a historical drama.
The palace combines various architectural styles and features opulent interiors from the 16th and 17th centuries. Large halls, magnificent bedrooms, original Tudor kitchens and extensive gardens create a real castle atmosphere. The famous hedge maze is particularly popular.
Getting there
Hampton Court Palace is easily accessible by train from London Waterloo – the journey takes about 35 minutes and then it's a short walk to the palace.
Windsor Castle: World's Largest Inhabited Palace
The ultimate destination for royal fans: Windsor Castle, west of London, is the oldest and largest royal palace still inhabited in the world and is one of the absolute highlights of any royal trip. The palace, which is over 1,000 years old, is still in use today.
Here you can explore the impressive state rooms, the Gothic St George's Chapel (burial place of numerous monarchs) and varied exhibitions. Windsor is open all year round and offers a profound historical experience.
Day trip by train
Windsor is a classic day trip from London: trains run regularly, for example from Paddington with a change at Slough or directly from Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Central station. The journey takes around an hour in total.
Other royal hotspots
- St James's Palace: One of London's oldest royal palaces – usually only visible from the outside, but important for ceremonies such as the changing of the guard.
- Royal Mews: Directly behind Buckingham Palace, you will discover the royal carriages and horses – an exciting insight into everyday royal ceremonial life.
- Kew Palace: Small but beautiful: the historic Kew Palace is located in the extensive Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – perfect for anyone who wants to combine royalty with nature.
The Perfect Starting Point: a&o London Docklands Riverside
For your royal adventure, you need a good starting point – and you'll find it at a&o London Docklands Riverside.
Why this hotel in London is ideal:
- Located directly on the Thames
- Very good value for money
- Modern rooms & cosy lounge
- Perfect connections from Canary Wharf
- After a long day of palaces and history, you can relax here – and plan your next day in peace in the lobby.
Practical tips for your trip
- Book tickets in advance: Many palaces and attractions are popular – reserve your tickets online to avoid waiting times.
- Go early to see the changing of the guard.
- Pack comfortable shoes.
- London Pass: With the London Pass, you can experience several attractions at a lower price – especially worthwhile if you plan to visit multiple times.
- Allow enough time – many places require several hours.
Your personal royal adventure
London and its royal palaces are not only a tourist highlight, but also a living piece of history and tradition. Whether you want to explore classic state rooms, historic chapels or extensive parks, there is much to discover in the footsteps of the monarchy. Allow plenty of time and combine your visits with walks through parks, museums or a leisurely afternoon tea break to fully savour the British way of life.
London is a dream destination for anyone who loves history. Here you can stand in places where kings were crowned, grand weddings took place and world political decisions were made. From Westminster Abbey to the wedding church of Charles and Diana to the Crown Jewels in the Tower, each stop tells its own story.
With a&o London Docklands Riverside as your base, you can experience it all in a relaxed, central and budget-friendly way. So adjust your crown and charge your camera – your royal London adventure awaits.
