Castles are more than the fictional homes of storybook royalty – they’re living, breathing history that tells the story of centuries past.
Each of our journeys through Great Britain allow guests step inside real-life palaces still used by the royal family today, discovering the rich past, vibrant present, and evolving future of these refined residences. From Windsor Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Sudeley Castle, each reflects a distinct stage in the evolution of British royal and noble life – revealing how stone walls transformed into palaces and estates designed to embody elegance and royalty.
Often described as a “country” residence just an hour outside London, Windsor Castle was founded by William the Conqueror and has been in continuous use for nearly 1,000 years. It remains the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and continues to serve as an official royal residence.
St. George’s Chapel, located within the castle grounds, was the setting for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding, and today Prince William and Princess Kate reside on the Windsor estate.
On our A Week In… London and Paris journey, you can enjoy a guided visit to this monumental palace, exploring the exquisite Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and the magnificent Baroque State Apartments – an unforgettable experience that brings England’s evolving royal history vividly alive.
Located at the end of Edinburgh’s famed Royal Mile, opposite Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse has served as Scotland’s principal royal residence for centuries. Founded in 1128 as a monastery, it later became the home of Mary, Queen of Scots and remains the official residence of King Charles III when in Scotland.
The palace was the site of dramatic events during Mary, Queen of Scots’ reign, including the brutal murder of her private secretary, David Rizzio – one of the most infamous episodes in Scottish royal history.
You can explore the historic royal residence on our A Week In… Scotland journey and our England, Scotland & Wales journey. On a private, expert-led guided visit, delve into both the palace’s turbulent past and its modern royal role, offering an enriching way to experience Edinburgh’s royal heritage.
In the picturesque Cotswolds’, Sudeley Castle has played a pivotal role in England’s royal and noble history for over a thousand years. While originally built as a fortified medieval castle, it later became a favored Tudor residence and is best known as the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII.
Sudeley Castle is the only private castle in England to have a queen of England buried within its grounds – Queen Katherine Parr lies at rest in St. Mary’s Church on the estate.
You can visit Sudeley Castle on our England and the West Country journey, enjoying guided exploration of its atmospheric ruins, elegant interiors, and celebrated gardens. This visit offers a whimsical perspective on this refined country estate.
These palaces reveal a royal legacy shaped by centuries – and still unfolding today. Through exclusive access and expert-led visits, you don’t just observe Britain’s royal past; you walk through it, witnessing history where it is still being made.
The post Go beyond Buckingham: Great Britain’s living royal residences appeared first on The Taucker Travel Blog.
