Royal palaces and castles in London

This collection spans nearly a thousand years of British history, from the 11th-century Norman architecture of the Tower of London to the 19th-century Neo-Gothic Palace of Westminster. The list features active royal residences like Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace, alongside Kensington Palace’s Baroque design by Christopher Wren. These sites showcase the evolution of English power through Tudor brickwork, Georgian extensions, and the permanent home of the Crown Jewels.

Royal Palaces and Castles — Map

pikous / CC BY 2.0

A

Tower of London

Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, this UNESCO World Heritage Site served as a royal residence, prison, and armory. The Norman White Tower houses historic armor, while the complex also stores the Crown Jewels and remains home to the Yeoman Warders.

Sygic Traveler / All rights reserved

B

Palace of Westminster

Historic neo-gothic building serving as the seat of the UK Parliament and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Diliff / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Buckingham Palace

Official residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch, serving as a venue for state occasions and national celebrations. This neoclassical and Georgian palace features 775 rooms and the largest private garden in London.

Dirk Ingo Franke / CC BY 3.0

D

Saint James's Palace

Historic Tudor royal palace built in the 16th century, serving as a working royal residence and administrative center with significant heritage value.

Shisha-Tom / CC BY-SA 3.0

E

Kensington Palace

Historic royal residence featuring baroque architecture and exhibitions related to British royalty and history.

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