We would like to tour one palace while we are in London.
Saw Rick Steves' London book and looks like Buckingham, Windsor or Hampton Court. Any favorites? We will be there for Trooping the Colors so we will see Buckingham from that perspective. Should we also view changingof the guard there at another time?
Posted by
Bromley, Kent,, UK
1829 posts
Here is the website for the Historic Royal Palaces in and around London. Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace (current royal residences) have their own site. http://www.hrp.org.uk/ http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/
Posted by
Land of La
9221 posts
If you wish to see the interior of Buckingham Palace it's only open until October. Otherwise I'd opt for a tour either of Hampton Court or Windsor. All depends on your interests. Nice day trips for both.
Posted by
Troy, Oh, USA
2804 posts
Buckingham Palace is only open to the public the months of August and September. I would recommend going to Windsor, which is fantastic, but do not go the Monday following the Trooping the Colour (June 18th) because the Order of Garter when be then and the castle will be close to tourist. You might want to call Windsor Castle to see if any tickets (they are free) are available for the Order of Garter Ceremony, my daughter and I went a few years ago and it was fantastic. The Royal Family, Prime Minister (present and past), and lots of other important people walk from the castle down the hill to St. George's Chapel in their ceremony robes. We were a foot away from everyone, it was fabulous. If you go to Windsor on Tuesday, you could walk down to Windsor Great Park (5 minute walk) and see the Royal Family returning from Ascot. They come back between 5-6pm, we were there and you can be a foot away from the cars. If you have any questions you can send me a PM.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33820 posts
Have you already got your tickets for the Trooping the Colour? If not you may find it difficult. Pack an umbrella - we're in the midst of a drought here you know...
Posted by
OP
New York, New York, USA
4 posts
Thanks for the info. We're secured online tickets to Hampton Court. In response to Nigel who inquired about tickets. I noted a while ago that tickets were not possible. Any hints at places to stand and watch and at what time to get there? It starts at 10 am on the 16th. Thanks so much. This has been so helpful.
Posted by
Troy, Oh, USA
2804 posts
You could stand on The Mall...you would have to be there by 8am or earlier to be able to get a place where you could see. It gets very crowded.