The fairytale love story of Prince William and Kate Middleton has infected the world with Royal Fever, from their highly televised wedding to the recent media craze surrounding the birth of their son, George. If Royal Fever is inspiring you to plan a trip to London, don’t miss these royal sites during your stay.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey (Image: OwenXu)
This historic church dominated the airwaves in 2011 when Prince William and Kate Middleton wed at Westminster Abbey, but its royal history reaches much further than those recent nuptials. The Gothic church has been the site of royal weddings and coronations since 1066, and you can tour the church Monday through Saturday (Sundays are reserved for worship).
Buckingham Palace
Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (Image: Gabriel Villena)
You can’t do a royal tour of London without stopping by Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard, a ceremonial 45-minute display held every other day. When Queen Elizabeth (who resides in the palace) leaves for her summer holiday, Buckingham Palace’s royal state rooms are open to visitors.
Tower of London
After a peak at the Queen’s estate, you can view Her Royal Highness’ crown jewels at the Tower of London. Dazzling diamonds and oversized jewels adorn this impressive collection of royal crowns and scepters. The Tower of London is also home to a royal armory collection, daily reenactments and the gallows where three queens were executed.
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace (Image: soosalu)
This brick palace is the royal residence for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. While you probably won’t catch a glimpse of baby George, Britain’s newest royal, you can tour the gardens, view some of the most iconic royal dresses and visit the lavishly decorated state apartments.
Madame Tussauds
A photo opportunity with Prince William and Princess Kate is a long shot, to say the least. You can snap a photo with the next best thing, though, at Madame Tussauds. The museum is home to wax figures of not just William and Kate, but Queen Elizabeth, Prince Harry and Princess Diana, too.
Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery (Image: ** Maurice **)
Trafalgar Square is well known for the contemporary public art that calls this outdoor space home, but the square is also where you’ll find the National Gallery. Here, you can view the first official portrait of the Duchess of Cambridge, as well as portraits of the extended royal family and other important Brits — all free of charge.
(Main image: UK_repsome)
