National treasures

Royal gems

6 February 2022 saw Her Majesty The Queen become the first British Monarch to celebrate 70 years of service. This unprecedented anniversary was marked across the UK with events and initiatives, culminating in a four-day bank holiday weekend from 2-5 June.

If you want to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee and the long reign of HR Queen Elizabeth II with a day out, here are eight AA and VisitEngland-recommended national treasures with fascinating royal connections.

Buckingham Palace

The Monarch's official residence, Buckingham Palace is recognised around the world as the focus of national and royal celebrations. Explore the gardens with unprecedented freedom this summer and enjoy the magnificent State Rooms on a special guided tour.

Hampton Court Palace and Gardens

Discover the home of Henry VIII with a visit to this spectacular baroque palace. Relax in the world-renowned gardens, experience the grandeur of the Tudor court in the Great Hall and travel back to the pinnacle of Tudor feasting and frolics in Henry VIII’s kitchens.

Osborne House

Located on the Isle of Wight, Osborne House is the palatial former holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Stroll around the vibrant gardens, admire their children’s cottage, visit the bathing beach, and step inside to see the ornate furnishings.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Holyroodhouse stands at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal mile and was the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. The home of Scottish royal history, your visit will reveal the Palace’s close association with figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Royal Pavilion

Situated in the heart of Brighton, the Royal Pavilion was built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV. Enjoy the extravagance of the Music Room, picture the feasts that would have been hosted in the elaborate Banqueting Room and wander round the Regency-style garden.

Sandringham Estate

Nestled in 24 hectares of formal gardens, Sandringham House was the country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen. Explore the great collections of objets d’art, discover rare and unusual trees in the formal Gardens and enjoy locally-sourced produce in the shop and cafés.

Westminster Abbey

Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, the Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066 and is the final resting place for many great figures of our past. Highlights include Poets’ Corner, the Coronation Chair and the Lady Chapel.

Windsor Castle

The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle is home to royalty and 1,000 years of royal history. Open to visitors throughout the year, take a tour of the Castle Precincts, discover the State Apartments and admire the beauty of St George’s Chapel.