Royal Places to Visit in London

From coronations to weddings, and jewels to cavalry, these are some of the best royal attractions to enjoy on your next trip to London.

Westminster Abbey

Since 1066, Westminster Abbey has held all coronation ceremonies and King Charles III will be the 40th reigning monarch to be crowned there. It has also hosted numerous Royal weddings including Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011, and Queen Elizabeth II and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten RN in 1947. If you’re visiting the Abbey you can take a guided tour for all the insider knowledge or wander at your leisure.

Buckingham Palace

The most iconic of the royal family’s residences, Buckingham Palace is the go-to royal destination in London. It's the focus of national and royal celebrations and has been the official London residence of UK sovereigns since 1837. Go to watch the Changing of the Guard, visit the Royal Mews to see spectacular horse-drawn carriages, and head to the Queen’s Gallery to see the Royal Collection of art, photography and furniture.

St Paul’s Cathedral

The site of Jubilee celebrations and royal weddings, St Paul’s Cathedral is a London icon and a fantastic place to visit. Both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II commemorated Jubilee’s at the Cathedral, and HRH The Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, married Lady Diana Spencer there in 1981. Enjoy the Cathedral’s rich history, architecture, and breathtaking views across London.

Tower of London

Be prepared to be dazzled by the Crown Jewels which have been held in the Tower of London since 1661. They are regularly used for notable national ceremonies so remain under armed guard in the Jewel House. The Coronation Regalia, which includes the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, the Sovereign’s Orb, and the Coronation Spoon, helps make up the collection of 23,578 gemstones.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

In 1759, King George III’s mother Princess Augusta founded the original botanic garden at Kew. George III later inherited Kew estate, joined it with the royal estate in Richmond, and Kew became known as Kew Gardens. More than 100 years later Queen Victoria donated Queen Charlotte’s Cottage and surrounding land to Kew. With such great royal connections and beautiful scenery, the Royal Botanic Gardens are a must-visit.

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The Household Cavalry Museum

Located within one of London’s most historic buildings, Horse Guards in Whitehall, this museum showcases the history of The Household Cavalry. Formed in 1661 under the direct order of King Charles II, The Household Cavalry is a key part of the Royal pageantry. Visit the museum to explore the history, dress like a Cavalryman, and even meet soldiers and horses at special events.

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Travel by train from London Luton Airport to central London in as little as 32 minutes with the Luton Airport Express.