Explore the Majestic Royal Residences of the United Kingdom: Palaces, Castles, and Stately Homes (2024)

The Royal Residences of the United Kingdom are steeped in history and grandeur. Standing as testaments to the U.K.’s rich heritage and regal traditions, these landmarks are admired across the globe. In the form of opulent palaces, fortified castles, and magnificent stately homes, the Royal Residences of the U.K. boast architectural marvels offering captivating glimpses into the lives of the British Monarchy.

There are more than 30 regal estates that the Royal British Monarchy call their home. Each Royal Residence has a unique story that reflects changing dynasties, political landscapes, and cultural influences. From the most popular Buckingham Palace to the largest inhabited castle, Windsor Castle, there are so many landmarks to explore.

If you are interested in learning about the lives of the British Monarchy, join us for the tour of the Royal Residences of the United Kingdom. These iconic landmarks will introduce you to architectural excellence and fascinating royal history through an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. Here we have the top 8 Palaces, Castles, and Stately Homes in the United Kingdom.

Explore the Majestic Royal Residences of the United Kingdom: Palaces, Castles, and Stately Homes

While not every Royal Residences in the United Kingdom aren’t open to the public, some of them allow public visits and tours. Here we have ten such UK Royal Residences that you can visit as tourists. The list below will unfold all that you can enjoy at these British homes:

Buckingham Palace

When confused about where to start, always choose Buckingham Palace. The most iconic royal residence in the United Kingdom, Buckingham Palace, is the administrative headquarters and the official London residence of the British Monarch.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Buckingham Palace:

• Visitors are required to go under strict security checks. Anything threatening or suspicious isn’t allowed inside the Palace and can land you in serious trouble.
• Photography is restricted inside State Rooms but is allowed in the Garden premises.
• The most popular activity here is the “Changing of the Guard ceremony”. It takes place from April to July daily, whereas alternative days are during the rest of the year. During the ceremony, King hands over responsibility for protecting the Palace to a new shift of guards.
• State Rooms are open for public tours from late July through September. These lavishly decorated exhibits are Royal Collection, and visitors can enjoy an audio guide for an elevated experience.
• The Queen’s Gallery, right adjacent to Buckingham Palace, exhibits a changing selection of artworks from the Royal Collection.
• The Royal Mews, located nearby, allow the public to witness the grandeur of the Gold State Coach, royal horse, and state vehicles.
• Entry/access to any of the above places or activities is paid.
• Accessibility for wheelchair users and those with other mobility impairments is allowed. Guide dogs, audio guides, and large-print guides are available as well.

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is perhaps the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. It was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and boast Gothic, Georgian, and Victorian architectural style. Nestled in Berkshire, this royal residence has served the British Monarch for more than 900 years. It is, in fact, a symbol of royal heritage and architectural splendor.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Windsor Castle:

• It operates Tuesday to Saturday throughout the year for public visits. Any changes or closures are regularly updated on Windsor Castler’s official website.
• During royal events or ceremonies, access to many areas in the castle is restricted.
• There are strict security measures, and thus, the entry may take a good enough time.
• Audio tours in multiple languages are available.
• Entry to Windsor Castle is paid through it includes guides as well for a more comprehensive experience.
• George’s Chapel is the most appealing and thus must-visit part of Windsor Castle. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture is known for hosting royal weddings and ceremonial services.
• Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House is another incredible attraction within the castle. It is often visited for its incredible attention to detail, vast collection of tiny furniture and accessories, fully functional electricity, running water, and more.
• Attending the Changing of the Guard that, organizes within the castle grounds and is a memorable experience.
• When here, do not forget to walk across the castle grounds and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the surrounding countryside and the River Thames.

Kensington Palace

Another historic royal residence in London, the Kensington Palace, is open for the public to tour. Operating as a royal home since the 17th century, it has served Queen Victoria, Princess Diana, and many more. Currently, it is home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Kensington Palace:

• Kensington Palace is open to the public throughout the year; the opening hours, however, may vary.
• It is easily accessible via tube stations, including High Street Kensington and Queensway.
• The public can explore State Apartments or check out the rotating exhibitions that exhibit the lives and stories of the royal residents. Do check out Victoria Revealed, which revolves around the life and reign of Queen Victoria. Diana: Her Fashion Story is another iconic and fascinating exhibition to check out.
• Kensington Palace is set within beautiful gardens and has so much outdoor beauty to explore. Check out Kensington Palace is set within beautiful gardens which are redesigned to honour Princess Diana.
• Relax at the Orangery and Café, beautifully placed on the palace grounds.

Hampton Court Palace

Nestled in Surrey, Hampton Court Palace is a magnificent royal residence. This Royal home in England boasts a rich and powerful history spanning over 500 years. The Palace is popular for its stunning Tudor architecture and extensive gardens. It was built back in the 16th century by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. Hampton Court Palace, in fact, was the favoured residence of King Henry VIII.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting:

• Hampton Court Palace is open for public visits throughout the year.
• It can be reached from central London by train or boat. There is enough parking facility for people travelling via personal transportation.
• Entry to the Palace is paid, and there are different tickets available for the Palace, gardens, and special exhibitions.
• The Tudor Kitchens, the Great Hall, the Haunted Gallery, the Chapel Royal, and the State Apartments are some highlights for public visits.
• The Palace Gardens are home to Maze, one of the most puzzling and intricate mazes in the world.
• The public can also explore Privy Garden, the Great Fountain Garden, and the Wilderness.
• Hampton Court Palace host a range of events and festivals throughout the year. Check out their official website for historical reenactments, garden festivals, and concerts and thus plan your visit.
• The palace outdoors is home to cafes and restaurants. There are gift shops as well dealing in souvenirs, books, and unique items.
• The Palace provides accessibility for all visitors with accessible entrances, ramps, and elevators. There are disabled parking spaces on-site as well.

Clarence House

Most of the Royal Residences in the United Kingdom are nestled in London, and Clarence House is another one of them. It was built back during the early 19th century and, since 1953, has been serving as a royal residence. Clarence House was once home to the Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth. Today, it serves as the official residence of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Clarence House:

• Clarence House opens to the public throughout the week from 10 am to 4:30 pm. However, it is typically open to the public during select periods in the summer, ideally in August.
• Visitors can tour elegant ground floor rooms, including Lancaster Room, Morning Room etc. A visit here will introduce you to the collection of artwork, furniture, and decorative pieces.
• While entry to Clarence House is paid, it often comes as part of combined ticket options for the Tower of London and Kensington Palace.
• Due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges can be limited.
• Photography and the use of mobile devices may be restricted in certain areas.

Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace is a very beautiful historic royal residence nestled in Edinburgh, Scotland. Its history dates back to the 12th century when the Palace was built. The Palace started serving as the principal residence of the kings and queens of Scotland in the 16th century. It still continues as the official residence of the British Monarch. 

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Holyrood Palace:

• Holyrood Palace welcomes the general public from April through October only. Also, since the palace host multiple royal events and visits, access to certain areas may be limited during those times.
• Knowledgeable guides offer guided tours to provide visitors insides into the Palace’s architecture, royal residents, and significant events.
• The highlight here is the State Apartments featuring exquisite tapestries, historic furniture, and royal portraits. Also, do check out the Great Gallery for portraits of Scottish monarchs.
• Make sure you take out some time to explore the ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey, right next to the Palace.
• The Palace also boasts stunning gardens and grounds, including the beautiful Queen’s Garden.
• Queen’s Gallery, right next to the Palace, is home to a rotating collection of masterpieces from the Royal Collection.
• Holyrood Palace offers visitor facilities, including a gift shop for Scottish crafts and souvenirs and a café for quick bites and tea/coffee.

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire is another excellent Royal home to explore in Scotland. It was purchased back in 1852 by Queen Victoria and ever since is a private British Royal residence. Balmoral Castle is, in fact, one of the most beloved royal residences of the British Monarchy.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Balmoral Castle:

• Balmoral Castle is generally open to the public from April to July. The Castle grounds and gardens are open until August.
• Since it is a working residence, access to certain areas may be restricted, especially during the royal family’s stay.
• The beautiful gardens at Balmoral Castle are known for their stunning displays of flora.
• Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the castle and admire its impressive architecture and interior, along with royal history.
• The surrounding estate across Balmoral Castle features walking trails, picnic grounds, and River Dee for fishing. Its surrounding areas also allow hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Balmoral Castle also hosts a café for light refreshments and gift shops selling souvenirs, books, and locally sourced products.
• Photography inside the Palace is restricted, while visitors can enjoy photography on the grounds.
• Since Balmoral Castle is nestled in rural Scotland, reaching here via public transport can be a challenge. Find car rentals to reach the castle with ease.

Sandringham House

Sandringham House in Norfolk, England, has been serving British monarchs since 1862. This magnificent country estate and private residence has served the British royal family for four generates now. The entire estate covers 20,000 acres featuring gorgeously manicured gardens and woodlands, along with a stunning Georgian-style house.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Sandringham House:

• Sandringham House is open to the public from April to October.
• The ground floor of the house featuring reception rooms, the ballroom, and the museum are open to the public. In addition, gardens, with their stunning floral displays and peaceful pathways, also welcome visitors.
• The highlight of Sandringham House is the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. The church holds an important place for the royal family and is still active in worship.
• There are multiple restaurants, a tearoom, and gift shops for visitors’ ease. The traditional afternoon tea experience here is worth it.
• Visitors can explore the picturesque country park with walking trails, woodland areas, and a stunning lake. Or enjoy bird watching, cycling, and picnicking.
• The royal residence host multiple annual events, including craft fairs, garden shows, and vintage car rallies engaging the public.