London is awash with the trappings of royalty, and you can spend days immersing yourself in all of their finery.
Some other popular royal sights include The Mall, which is the grand processional route running the length of St James' Park from Buck House.
Horse Guards Parade, at the top end of
The Mall, is a popular photo stop and is the setting for the annual Trooping of the Colour. Alongside The Mall, Clarence House and St James' Palace can be easily admired. Clarence House is now the residence of Charles and Camilla, who shifted in shortly after the death of the Queen Mother. Prince William is based next door at St James' Palace.
Royal monuments are liberally sprinkled all over London. My favourite would have to be the Albert Memorial, across the road from the Royal Albert Hall. Queen Victoria commissioned the memorial to express her enduring love for Albert. Apparently he wasn't too impressed about being immortalised in gold leaf. For palace fans, make time to see Hampton Court Palace. Nearly 500 years old, the palatial country residence was gifted to King Henry VIII by the Archbishop of York. Hampton Court remained an official royal residence for several hundred years, and the lavish interiors reflect a variety of periods and trends. Henry VIII commissioned the Chapel Royal and the Pond Garden, which remain true to their original form.
TOP TIPS
If you are planning a trip to London and intend viewing some of the royal residences, you can pre-purchase tickets for most royal sites, including Buckingham Palace, from www.royalcollection.org.uk
Flemings Hotel is perfectly positioned across the road from Hyde Park, in the heart of Royal London.
Opened as a hotel in 1851, Flemings is a historic Georgian townhouse building, mixing original features with modern luxury.
The light, elegant, individually decorated and well-appointed rooms include fluffy bathrobes and marble en suite bathrooms. Even if you're not staying in-house, sample the on-site dining, which is exceptionally good value. The Flemings Grill serves modern British cuisine, while The Front Room offers champagne and cupcakes.
The glamorous Cocktail and Tea Room serves a classic British afternoon tea. Visit www.flemings-mayfair.co.uk
Royal way to spend a day
London is awash with the trappings of royalty, and you can spend days immersing yourself in all of their finery.
Some other popular royal sights include The Mall, which is the grand processional route running the length of St James' Park from Buck House.
Horse Guards Parade, at the top end of
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