There are several palaces to discover in London.
During your visit, there are a few places you can't overlook.
Today, I'm putting together a list of places not to be missed.
Here we go!
Palaces in London: article summary
Palaces in London: Kew Palace
A little less well-known than some other London landmarks, Kew Palace is a must-see! Perched on the banks of the River Thames, it was the summer residence of King George III and his wife. it's easy to see why.
Kew Palace was originally much larger than can be seen today, but you can still see the "Dutch House" element of the palace as you stroll through Kew Gardens itself.
What's more, if you feel like poking around inside, come and visit during the summer season. In fact, it's one of the few of London's finest palaces to close during the winter season.
Winchester Palace
Nestling on the side of Clink Street, it was once the most important palace in medieval England.
The palace itself dates back over 700 years and is undoubtedly one of London's oldest palaces.
Although in ruins, you can still see the walls of the Great Hall as you stroll down Clink Street. Winchester Palace is one of those places where you'll only spend about 10 minutes, as it's quite small.
However, you can easily combine a detour to Winchester with a visit to Borough Marketthe Golden Hinde ship and a walk from Tower Bridge or The Globe.
Palaces in London: Buckingham Palace
Perhaps one of London's most famous and beautiful palaces, Buckingham Palace is the monarch's official residence in London. Perched at the heart of Westminster, Buckingham Palace is Buckingham is easy to visit most of the time.
Now, if you want to get in, you can buy these tickets for Buckingham Palace when it's open to the public, 10 weeks a year. It opens generally from late July to late September.
After entering, stroll through the gardens of Buckingham Palace and explore one of the largest private green spaces in central London.
Hampton Court Palace
Nestled in south-west London, the palace of Hampton Court is one of London's biggest and best palaces to explore.
With over 500 years of history, Hampton Court Palace has survived to the present day.
The palace itself is open almost every day of the year and hosts a whole host of events, including ghost tours and the the world's most famous labyrinth!
London palaces: the Tower of London
You may not think of the Tower of London as a palace, but it is!
Officially known as Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of LondonIt has a long, dark history that can be explored today.
As one of London's finest palaces, it wouldn't be complete without a little royal flair. Once inside, be sure to visit the crown jewels in the safe.
You'll also see the world's largest cut diamond and around 23,000 other precious stones.
Lambeth Palace
Today, Lambeth Palace is another of London's finest palaces. Perched south of the river in Lambeth, it is the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Lambeth Palace is no longer open to the public, but there are several ways to get inside. Tickets are sold intermittently.
There's also a small festival held here on the last Saturday in June. During this event, you can gain access to the site. It's called the North Lambeth Parish Festival and takes place every year.
The entrance costs about £5. A quick and inexpensive way to spend your London visit.
London palaces: Kensington Palace
Perched in the Kensington and Chelsea in London, Kensington Palace is one of London's best palaces to explore. The royal family has used it as one of their residences for almost 300 years.
Today, it is the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Queen Victoria also grew up in this palace. before moving to Buckingham Palace.
The Palace of Westminster
The palace of Westminster is not always considered one of the best palaces in London, but you shouldn't overlook it!
With almost 1,000 years of history, the Palace of Westminster is the heart of governance. Now you can easily see the Palace of Westminster from the outside, but it can be a little more difficult to explore the interior.
That said, if you live in the UK, you can be invited in free of charge. All you have to do is ask your local MP to invite you.
There are many palaces in London that deserve your full attention. During your visit, don't hesitate to explore these places. You you'll be pleasantly surprised by your visit!
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