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To celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 2022, Premier Inn has listed some of the top UK destinations with royal links.
Premier Inn is sharing inspiration for Royal-themed breaks ahead of the historic Platinum Jubilee.
This summer it’s all about the Purple Reign! Exciting parties and events are taking place across the country to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II and her 70-year reign – but why stop there? From Balmoral to Hampton Court Palace, Premier Inn has compiled a list of top UK destinations with links to the Royal Family to help you holiday like a king or queen this year.
Take a look of some of our top spots – including some lesser- known destinations with royal links.
Holidays in Scotland wouldn’t be complete without visiting Balmoral Castle. A royal residence since 1852, history buffs will love exploring the themed displays, exhibitions and the famous Castle Ballroom – visitors can even pay to go on a Land Rover tour of the estate as part of the Balmoral Expedition!
Few UK landmarks are packed with as much royal history as Windsor Castle. Founded by William the Conqueror and still one of the main residences of Queen Elizabeth II, this historic attraction is a must-visit on short breaks in Berkshire. After exploring the ornate state rooms, priceless artifacts, and exciting exhibitions throughout the castle, why not walk the ‘Long Walk’ and soak up the beautiful views of Windsor Great Park?
It’s easy to see why The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall love escaping to this picture-perfect farmhouse in Myddfai. The Llwynywermod Estate is open to the public from March to October, in case you wanted a sneaky peek.
Thanks to its picture-perfect scenery and clear blue waters, it’s no surprise that many members of the royal family have escaped to this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Cornwall. St Mawes has hosted the Queen Mother, Princess Margaret as well as the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall – the Queen herself even visited this beautiful seaside village during her Silver Jubilee back in 1977! Frequently voted one of the best seaside resorts in the UK, it’s definitely worth visiting St Mawes on Cornwall holidays.
Weekend breaks on the Isle of Wight wouldn’t be complete without visiting Osborne House. Designed for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert back in 1845 and now managed by the English Heritage charity, this former royal residence in East Cowes is packed with history just waiting to be discovered – explore the luxurious state rooms and art collections before taking a walk along what was once the royal family’s private beach.
Don’t miss out on visiting Hatfield House if you’re staying in one of our Hertfordshire hotels. This Jacobean country house was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I, and it’s a must-visit for fans of the royal family and history-buffs. See the famous Rainbow Portrait in the Marble Hall, take a stroll around the East and West Gardens and explore the woods in scenic Hatfield Park.
Not only is Hampton Court Palace one of the most famous UK landmarks, it’s also a must-visit if you’re looking for things to do with the kids in London. The former royal residence of King Henry VIII is packed with activities for all ages, from touring the Great Hall and the Great Fountain Garden to watching historical re-enactments of jousting matches and cooking for a Tudor feast, this palace is unmissable on city breaks in London.
Visit a seaside with some royal history on summer holidays in West Sussex. In 1929, King George V granted the town the “Regis” suffix – meaning “of the King” – while he recovered from surgery in a seaside mansion near Aldwick, before coming back to visit several times with his family, including a young Princess Elizabeth. Craigweil House may have been demolished, but Aldwick Beach, where the King most likely did most of his recuperating, remains one of the most popular beaches in Sussex.
With a whole host of family events to enjoy and historic artefacts to explore, it’s easy to see why Hever Castle is one of the most popular places to visit in Kent. Learn all about Ann Boleyn’s childhood with a tour of the Tudor castle’s rooms and exhibitions before exploring the beautiful landscaped gardens, moat and mazes outside. Plus, with archery activities, a kids’ playground and jousting events taking place throughout the year, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this historic attraction in Kent.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Antrim, why not visit Hillsborough Castle? This attraction is the only royal residence in Northern Ireland, and its ornate state rooms and landscaped gardens are open to the public between April and October. With guided tours, flower workshops and even exciting play trails for the kids, there’s something to keep all ages entertained on holidays in Northern Ireland.
Probably one of the most well-known Royal residences in the UK, Sandringham is a must-visit on weekend breaks in Norfolk. As well as the famous Grade II listed house itself, this beautiful country estate is home to gorgeous landscaped gardens and a Royal Park that’s open all year round. So, whether you’re exploring the expansive woodlands or stopping by for a tour and some afternoon tea, this beloved site is packed with history just waiting to be discovered.
Holidays in Brighton wouldn’t be complete without visiting this Grade I listed palace. Originally built as a seaside retreat for King George IV, this former royal residence is famous for its domed design, inspired by early Chinese and Indian architecture. Explore the Royal Pavilion’s lavish interiors and stylish exhibitions – including clothes worn by members of the royal family – right at the heart of buzzing Brighton.
Queen Victoria awarded Leamington Spa its ‘Royal’ title back in 1838, and there’s still several monuments to her throughout the town, including the Queen Victoria statue on the Parade, the Victoria Bridge over the River Leam, and Victoria Park which opened in 1899 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
Fans of the royal family and history-lovers alike won’t want to miss visiting Sudeley Castle. Set amongst 10 beautiful gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds, this stunning Grade I listed castle has hosted some of the most famous royals, including Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and Elizabeth I. It’s also the final resting place of Catherine Parr, and you can visit her marble tomb at St Mary’s Church. As well as exploring the castle’s rooms and exhibitions, this popular attraction in Gloucestershire also has a playground for kids and hosts all kinds of exciting events throughout the year!
Fun fact – Elizabeth II gave this beautiful country home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as a wedding gift back in 2011! Sadly, Anmer Hall isn’t open to the public as it’s a private Royal residence. But the good news is that popular Norfolk attractions like the Sandringham Estate and Houghton Hall & Gardens are open almost all year round for history-lovers to explore.
The vibrant city of Chelmsford is home to the historic Chelmsford Cathedral. However, what many don’t know is that during the reign of Richard II, the King fled London and set up government in Chelmsford. For nearly a week, from Monday 1st July to Saturday 6th July (1381), Chelmsford became the seat of government, leading some to suggest that, if only for a few days Chelmsford became the capital of England! For modern day visitors, there are a plenty of parks and scenic walks along the river Cam to enjoy as well as easy access to the coast and other beauty spots across the county of Essex.
So, whether you’re celebrating the Queen’s Jubilee weekend or you’re just looking for a little getaway inspiration, these Royal locations are ideal spots for UK staycation and, for even more information on these visit our dedicated Jubilee page.
Plus, thanks to Premier Inn’s famous breakfast where kids eat free, super-comfy Hypnos beds and free Wi-Fi, you can always look forward to the royal treatment when you stay at one of its Premier Inn hotels across the UK. For the best prices always book direct at premierinn.com
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