Curator’s statement
The British royal family is an endless source of fascination the world over and have felt more relatable than ever before. After all, who hasn’t watched The Crown, read Harry’s biography or admired Kate's candid photos of her family? A visit to London is the perfect opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the modern royals. From ultra posh to surprisingly accessible, here are my top picks for those looking to experience a taste of royalty themselves in London.
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Where to stay in London
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Things to do in London
Kensington Palace is the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, and also famously where Diana resided with her sons after her separation from Charles. You can visit the State Rooms and walk the same gilded halls as generations of royalty, as well as view rotating artwork and historic objects from the Royal Collection. Note: Tickets do sell out, so it is best to book this one in advance if you’d like to visit.
No hotel has more links to the modern royal family than The Goring. It is the only hotel holding a Royal Warrant, the seal of approval from the royal family. Kate Middleton stayed here the night before her wedding, and both Queen Elizabeth II and The Queen Mother regularly dined in the Michelin-starred restaurant. Even if you aren’t staying there, pop in to have a drink at their famous bar. This is where Prince Phillip held his bachelor party and Queen Elizabeth II was known to cut loose occasionally.
Westminster Abbey is famous for over a millenia of royal history. More recently, it is where the Prince and Princess of Wales were married in 2011, viewed by nearly a billion people worldwide. This is a must-see London site, as it has been central to so many major events and individuals in English history. I recommend pre-booking your visit, then arriving in the morning about 30-minutes before they open in order to avoid the worst of the crowds.
If you are looking to get some exercise with your sightseeing, the Princess Diana Memorial Walk is seven miles long, taking you through four royal parks where you will pass buildings associated with the princess during her life, including Buckingham Palace, Spencer House and Clarence House.
The finals of the two week annual tennis tournament Wimbledon are almost always observed from the Royal Box by members of the royal family, most notably the Princess of Wales, who is the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club. You can tour the grounds yourself year round and see the Royal Box, and much more with behind the scenes access via the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and Tour.
Places to eat & drink in London
The Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon: Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2012, accompanied for afternoon tea by the Duchesses of Cornwall and Cambridge (aka Camilla and Kate, now the Queen Regent and Princess of Wales), this is a quintessential afternoon tea spot. Indulge in delicious baked goods and Fortnum & Mason’s famous tea in the historic grocer’s flagship location. Make sure you spend some time exploring the attached store as well, with its high end products that have been enjoyed by the royal family for centuries. I love spending time smelling all of their delicious teas and choosing a tin to take home as a souvenir. You could also pick up picnic supplies if the weather is cooperating and enjoy lunch in Hyde Park.
Dean Street Townhouse: Part of the trendy Soho House hotel, this is where Harry and Meghan famously had their first blind date. Featuring modern British cuisine, they offer all day dining, including weekend brunch
Brilliant Restaurant: Named by King Charles III as his favorite restaurant, this Indian spot features Punjabi cuisine with Kenyan influences. It’s also a great spot for lunch or dinner if you just arrived at Heathrow. It’s en route to central London, a short walk from Southall station on the Elizabeth Line.
Bluebird Cafe: This casual eatery in Chelsea is rumored to be a favorite of Kate, with her visiting with Prince William while they were dating, and repeat visits since. It’s a more affordable, casual option for a chance to brush shoulders with royalty.
Launceston Place: Princess Diana frequented this posh Kensington restaurant known for its cozy and private dining rooms. Try the cheese soufflé for dessert, a favorite of hers that has since been named in her honor.
Bocca Di Lupo: Both Meghan And Princess Eugenie are fans of this accessible Italian trattoria in Soho, featuring fresh pasta and a seasonal rotating menu. This is a great spot for a meal before or after a show on the West End.
La Poule au Pot: The Queen Regent mentioned in an interview that this Belgravia French bistro featuring classics such as cassoulet and coq au vin is a favorite of hers. It has been in operation since the 1960s and is a great option if you are looking for a relaxing, low key meal.
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Lindsay Vickerman
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Nadia Bess’s guide, Cocktails & Culture: 3 Days in London.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to London.