traveldk.com

The finest piece of Tudor architecture in Britain, Hampton Court was begun by Henry VIII’s ally Cardinal Wolsey in 1514 and later given to the king. It was enlarged first by Henry and then by William and Mary, who employed Christopher Wren as architect. Its many rooms include a huge kitchen, a Renaissance Picture Gallery, the Chapel Royal and fine royal apartments. Set in 60 acres, the gardens, with their famous maze, are as much an attraction as the palace.

An intimate royal palace in Kensington Gardens, famous as the home of Princess Diana, the first sovereign residents here were William and Mary in 1689. Queen Victoria was born here in 1837 and opened parts of the palace to the public, including some of the State Apartments. These are still open today, along with a beautiful Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. The Orangery is delightful for coffee.

Although not open to the public, St James’s has a key role in royal London. Its classic Tudor style sets it in the reign of Henry VIII, although it served only briefly as a royal residence. Prince Charles has offices here.

The smallest royal palace, Kew was built in 1631 and used as a residence by George III and Queen Charlotte. Nearby Queen Charlotte’s Cottage was used for picnics and housing royal pets. The palace is set in Kew Gardens

Built by Inigo Jones, this magnificent building is particularly noted for its Rubens ceiling. It was commissioned by Charles I, who stepped from this room on to the scaffold for his execution in 1649.

This delightful home in the midst of Greenwich Park was the first Palladian building by Inigo Jones, and home to the wife of Charles I. Beautifully restored to its 17th-century glory, it now provides a home for the National Maritime Museum’s art collection.

This exquisite royal chapel is open only to its congregation (visitors welcome as worshippers). Built by Inigo Jones in 1627, its furnishings remain virtually intact, including a beautiful altarpiece by Annibale Carracci.

Designed by John Nash in 1827 for William, Duke of Clarence who lived here after he became king in 1830. This royal residence sits beside The Mall. It was the home of the Queen Mother, who died in 2002.