The monarchy of the UK has long been one of the most prominent draws for tourists the world over. From Lady Di to Henry VIII, the tumultuous history of the royal family has captured the imaginations of Anglophiles the world over and inspired TV series, fashion, art and theatre for centuries. It’d be unsurprising then that as a guest of spa hotels in London, you might want to see some of the famous palaces and memorials for yourself.
When staying at hotels like the Montcalm London Marble Arch, you’ll be ideally located to explore the likes of Buckingham and Kensington Palace. But there’s more to see than just these parkside homesteads, the city of London – and beyond – have a whole host of unique landmarks just waiting to be visited. From the rural and medieval to the ultra-modern, these are some of the best tourist attractions for fans of the British monarchy.
Buckingham Palace
The official royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II, this is probably the most distinctive and still active house owned by the royal estate. With its gilded gates and patrolling red-clad royal guards, Buckingham Palace is nestled between St James’s Park and Green Park and is open seasonally for tours of its grounds. Tours are available between June and October each year, the rest of the time the palace functions as the official working headquarters of the Royal Family as well as being the residence of the Queen herself.
Kensington Palace
The childhood home of Queen Victoria and the residence of Princess Diana, Kensington Palace is now the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The beautiful townhouse overlooks Kensington Gardens and guests at the nearby Montcalm hotels and luxury suites in London can visit the lavish mansions exhibitions, which include one on the fashion of Lady Diana and Victoria Revealed, which explores the childhood of Queen Victoria. The Kings State Apartments are also open for tours and visits.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is located in Greater London’s Berkshire county and was the location of Meghan and Harry’s star-crossed wedding. The beautiful fully operational castle dates back to the 11th century but has been built upon several times through history. The castle has expanded over the years and now incorporates a fully functional town and village that is open to visitors, as are the castle’s lower to upper wards, chapel and staterooms.
Westminster Abbey
The site of every coronation since the year 1066, Westminster Abbey is one of the most prominent and important monarchic sites in the country. With over a thousand years of history, this Norman era gothic cathedral is the resting place for many influential figures from throughout history. It’s also the site of 16 royal weddings and many more state funerals.
Tower Of London
The weird and wonderful history of the Tower Of London has seen it transformed into a prison, an exotic animal menagerie, fortress and now resting place of the Crown Jewels of England. With its “Beefeater” guards patrolling in traditional uniform, this atmsoheric London icon is a must for anyone interested in the tumultuous history of the monarchic line.
Hampton Court
Situated in London’s borough of Richmond, Hampton Court Palace was a Tudor era royal residence that was the site of Ane Boelyn, Henry’s 2nd wife’s execution. The history of Hampton Court’s not all grisly, you can tour the Chapel Royal and beautiful gardens before attempting to navigate the Hampton Court Maze, one of the most famous in the world.
