Royal Footprints: Exploring Sites with a Regal Heritage
Britain’s royal legacy is intricately woven into its landscape—engraved in its castles, echoed in its cathedrals, and murmured through the corridors of country estates. From ancient kingdoms to modern monarchy, centuries of ceremony, scandal, and statecraft have shaped the island’s most iconic landmarks. Today, visitors can follow these royal footprints on a journey through some of the UK’s most majestic sites. Whether you’re an avid royal observer, a history aficionado, or simply enchanted by the pageantry and romance of regal Britain, these destinations offer captivating stories, stunning architecture, and a tangible connection to the crown. Many of them are easily explored on our London and Royal England, Scotland Highlights, or Heart of England itineraries—designed to bring Britain’s regal past to life.
If you are planning a visit during September, October, or early November, consider these top destinations to witness Britain’s stunning autumnal scenery. Many can be seamlessly integrated into our Heart of England, Northern Discovery, or Scotland Highlights itineraries—perfect for travellers keen on experiencing Britain’s natural beauty at its most magnificent.
1. Buckingham Palace, London
When to visit: The Palace is only open to visitors during specific times of the year, with the dates for 2025 being 10th July until the 28th September, though some small guided tours are available throughout the year.
Why visit: The heart of the British monarchy and the official residence of the King
No royal tour would be complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. Located at the end of the grand Mall in central London, it’s both a working palace and a global symbol of Britain’s monarchy. Time your visit right and you can witness the Changing of the Guard, a display of ceremonial precision and tradition. During the summer months, the palace opens its State Rooms to visitors. Lavishly decorated with chandeliers, portraits, and period furnishings, these rooms offer a rare glimpse into royal life behind the gilded gates.
Best paired with: Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace and the Tower of London as part of a Royal London day tour
Included in: Our London and Beyond itinerary
2. Windsor Castle, Berkshire
Why visit: The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world
A favourite royal residence for over 900 years, Windsor Castle is still very much in use—hosting state visits and serving as a weekend retreat for the royal family. Visitors can explore the grandeur of the State Apartments, the solemn beauty of St George’s Chapel, and the ceremonial grounds where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding took place. Windsor’s charming town centre, cobbled streets, and riverside walks make it a worthy stop in its own right.
Don’t miss: The Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, an extraordinary miniature palace
Easily added to: Our Royal England Tour or London and South East England route
3. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Why visit: A royal fortress with a commanding view of the Scottish capital
Perched atop an ancient volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline of the city’s Old Town. Once a royal residence and stronghold, it’s where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI—who would later unite the crowns of Scotland and England. Tour the Great Hall, the Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewels), and St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh.
Best paired with: A stroll along the Royal Mile, ending at Holyrood Palace
Included in: Our Scotland Highlights Tour
4. Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh
Why visit: The official Scottish residence of the monarch
Situated at the opposite end of the Royal Mile from the castle, Holyrood Palace has been the backdrop for many dramatic chapters in royal history. Walk the rooms where Mary, Queen of Scots lived, visit the throne room and state apartments, and wander the ruins of Holyrood Abbey set against the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat. It’s still used today for state ceremonies and royal engagements when the monarch is in Scotland.
Best paired with: Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament for a full day of history and heritage
Included in: Our Scotland 10-Day Explorer
5. Sandringham Estate, Norfolk
Why visit: A beloved country retreat and private royal residence
Sandringham has long been a place of retreat for the royal family, particularly during Christmas. The house, gardens and museum are open to the public, offering insight into royal family life away from the spotlight. Set in the Norfolk countryside, the estate is peaceful, personal, and dotted with walking trails and wildlife.
Don’t miss: The estate church, St Mary Magdalene, where many royal Christmas services have been held
Perfect for: A day trip from Cambridge or as part of a countryside road trip on a Custom England Tour
6. Hampton Court Palace, Surrey
Why visit: The Tudor showpiece of King Henry VIII
Few places evoke Tudor grandeur like Hampton Court Palace. Wander the vast kitchens, explore the formal gardens, and picture the drama that once unfolded in the Great Hall, where Henry VIII feasted with his many wives. The palace is rich with Renaissance art, baroque architecture, and ghostly tales. Its riverside setting makes for a relaxed day out, just 35 minutes from central London by train or boat.
Best paired with: Richmond Park or Kew Gardens
Included in: Our Royal London & Southern Palaces day trips
7. Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
Why visit: The birthplace of Winston Churchill and a gift from a grateful monarch
Though not a royal residence, Blenheim Palace is one of the most spectacular stately homes in Britain—with deeply royal roots. Gifted to the Duke of Marlborough by Queen Anne after victory at the Battle of Blenheim, it remains a symbol of royal favour and aristocratic power. Its opulent interiors, landscaped parkland and vast art collections make it a must-see.
Don’t miss: The State Rooms and Capability Brown gardens
Perfect for: A stop between Oxford and the Cotswolds on our Heart of England Tour
8. Westminster Abbey, London
Why visit: The setting for every British coronation since 1066
Westminster Abbey is more than a church—it’s the spiritual heart of the British monarchy. Kings and queens have been crowned here for nearly a thousand years, and many are buried beneath its floor. It’s also where William and Kate were married, and where Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral was held—moments that shaped the nation and were broadcast to millions around the world.
Best paired with: Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament
Included in: All our London-based tours
ng season, and wild ponies wander through gilded glades. The mix of open heathland and dense woods offers varied walking experiences, while quaint villages like Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst are perfect for a countryside escape.
Must-sees:
- Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary
- A ride on the scenic New Forest railway
- Local cider and autumn produce in farm shops
Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October Part of: Our South of England Discovery Tour
The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire & Oxfordshire
Why visit in autumn: For honey-stone villages framed by copper leaves and tranquil countryside paths
The Cotswolds showcase classic English countryside at its most enchanting—and autumn adds an extra sprinkle of magic. Vines climb golden cottages and trees around manor houses and parks ignite with colour, giving the region a cinematic warmth. It’s a wonderful time for leisurely lunches in gastropubs, scenic walks, and antique hunting in peaceful market towns.
Must-sees:
- Westonbirt Arboretum, with over 15,000 trees from around the world
- A scenic drive between Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway
- Autumn scenery along the Windrush Valley
Best time to visit: October Part of: Our Heart of England Tour
Travel Like Royalty
From the halls of Windsor to the Highlands of Balmoral (available for exterior viewing only), Britain’s royal heritage is everywhere. These aren’t just historic sites—they’re living links to the monarchy, steeped in pageantry, tradition, and human drama. At Great British Trips, we help you travel through these stories, creating tailored itineraries that bring Britain’s royal past into sharp focus. Whether you want to stand in the rooms where queens ruled and kings were crowned, or simply stroll through a royal park with centuries of history beneath your feet, we’ll help you design a journey worthy of the crown. Browse our Royal and Historic UK Tours and take your next holiday in truly regal style.