2022 was a landmark year in royal history. In June, the nation marked Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, the first ever of its kind, where Her Royal Highness celebrated 70 years on the throne. Then, on 8th September, global respects were paid to the monarch, who died at the age of 96. Upon her death, the throne passed straight to her son and heir, King Charles III, formerly Prince Charles.
While the Royal Family has the front door keys to a number of luxurious properties, we hold the keys to even more properties that are fit for a king or queen.
If a visit to a royal residence is in your holiday itinerary, read on and you’ll also find a selection of great places to stay close by, or find your own palace by browsing our selection of luxury cottages.
Luxury cottages
Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire
Windsor Castle is the world’s largest inhabited castle. This famous residence is located on a gigantic hill next to the River Thames, 20 miles west of London, and parts of the structure date back to before the days of William the Conqueror.
Most of the castle’s grounds and inner walls are open to the public, and certain parts like the State Rooms and Queen Mary’s Dolls House can be visited. A full visit to the castle will take you about half a day, but why not discover the wonderful streets of Windsor or The Great Park and Eton College too? There’s always plenty to do in Windsor.
Where to stay near Windsor Castle
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Buckingham Palace, London
Buckingham Palace has served as the base for British sovereignty since 1837. It’s also the administrative centre and residence of many of the royal staff. Over the years, Queen Elizabeth II received her subjects at a series of annual garden parties. Most of the palace is off-limits to the public, however the State Rooms are open all year round.
Where to stay near Buckingham Palace
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Sandringham House, Norfolk
Deep in the land of Norfolk lavender farming is Sandringham House, which has been the private home to four generations of sovereigns since 1862. Parts of the grounds and house are open to the public with its museum, lavish gardens and visitor centre; in fact, it's one of our top 10 things to do in Norfolk. Sandringham House also hosts a large garden show each July ensuring that this royal residence is well worth a visit.
Where to stay near Sandringham House
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The Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh
The Palace of Holyroodhouse dominates the end of the Royal Mile at the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland's thriving capital city. It’s been home to a succession of Scottish kings and queens, namely Mary Queen of Scots, and central to Scotland’s interesting history.
Today it is still used as a royal palace, and is also open to the public throughout the year. A highlight of the calendar is Holyrood Week, which takes place at the end of June and into July. It’s an annual event to celebrate Scottish culture, history and achievement. Each year, 8,000 guests from all walks of Scottish life are invited to a garden party at Holyroodhouse, a tradition started by King George V and Queen Mary and maintained to this day.
Where to stay near the Palace of Holyroodhouse
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Balmoral Castle, The Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Balmoral Castle is close to the River Dee on the south side of The Cairngorms National Park. This is probably the most secluded and private of the five Royal residences. Queen Elizabeth II described it as her "dear Highland paradise” in her journals. Be sure to book one of the safaris, on which you can see the Royal Estate from the comfort of a 4x4. So perhaps Balmoral Castle is the place to feel most like a royal; it's among one of the most magical castles to visit in Scotland too.
Where to stay near Balmoral Castle
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Hillsborough Castle, County Down, Northern Ireland
Surrounded by 100 acres of gardens, Hillsborough Castle in County Down, a short distance from Belfast is the official residence of the monarch. The castle is a splendid late Georgian house, and you can take a tour of the castle’s State Rooms, including the elegant State Dining Room, State Drawing Room and Throne Room. Before this became Queen Elizabeth II’s royal residence, Princess Elizabeth, as she was back then, would often enjoy family holidays here in her childhood, alongside her sister Princess Margaret.
Holiday like a king or queen
If you’re looking to not only visit one of the royal residences but live like royalty too, take a look at our selection of luxury cottages fit for a king or queen – perfect for a right royal holiday!
Luxury cottages