Royal things to do in London

Few cities in the world are as closely intertwined with royalty as London. From palaces and historic ceremonies to royal parks and world-class exhibitions, the capital offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in centuries of royal history.

Perfectly positioned opposite Buckingham Palace, The Rubens at the Palace places guests at the heart of it all. Whether you're visiting London for the first time or rediscovering the city through a royal lens, here are some of the most memorable royal experiences to enjoy during your stay.

Stay Among Royal History

As a proud neighbour of the Royal Family, The Rubens at the Palace is steeped in regal heritage. Throughout the hotel, guests will discover a treasure trove of royal memorabilia, from ceremonial knighthood swords and historic artefacts to antiques gifted by Queen Elizabeth II herself, alongside an impressive collection of royal artwork.

For those wishing to fully immerse themselves in the experience, The Rubens' collection of Royal Rooms offers a fitting retreat. Richly decorated with sumptuous fabrics, deep crimson tones and distinctive period touches, each room celebrates a different chapter of Britain's royal history.

Many enjoy views overlooking the Royal Mews, one of the finest working stables in existence and an integral part of the Royal Household. Home to the King's ceremonial carriages, state vehicles and Windsor Grey horses, the Royal Mews continues to play a vital role in state occasions, coronations and royal celebrations today. Individually designed and full of character, these rooms provide a uniquely regal setting from which to experience London's most royal neighbourhood.

Royal Experiences on Your Doorstep:

From historic palaces and royal parks to ceremonial traditions and world-famous treasures, discover some of the capital's most iconic royal experiences just moments from the hotel.

Visit Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style

One of London's most anticipated exhibitions, Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, is currently on display at The King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace.

Marking the centenary year of Queen Elizabeth II's birth, the exhibition explores the late Queen's remarkable fashion legacy through approximately 200 items, including clothing, jewellery, hats, shoes and accessories. Many pieces are being displayed publicly for the first time, offering fascinating insight into how her style evolved throughout her historic reign.

Just opposite from The Rubens, this unique exhibition provides a rare glimpse into the life of one of Britain's most iconic monarchs.

Find out more: https://www.rct.uk/collection/exhibitions/queen-elizabeth-ii-her-life-in-style/the-kings-gallery-buckingham-palace

Explore Buckingham Palace

No royal visit to London would be complete without seeing Buckingham Palace itself.

As the official London residence of His Majesty The King, Buckingham Palace remains one of the nation's most recognisable landmarks. During the summer months, visitors have the opportunity to step inside and explore the magnificent State Rooms, where official ceremonies and royal receptions continue to take place today.

Even from the outside, the palace offers an unforgettable experience, particularly when viewed from the Victoria Memorial directly opposite.

Find out more about Buckingham Palace 

Witness the Changing of the Guard

One of London's most famous traditions, the Changing of the Guard takes place outside Buckingham Palace on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 11:00am.

Watch as soldiers in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats perform the ceremonial handover, accompanied by military music and centuries of tradition. Staying at The Rubens means you're just moments away from the action, making it easy to arrive early and secure one of the best viewing spots.

Visit the Royal Mews 

Located directly opposite The Rubens at the Palace, the Royal Mews offers a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known side of royal life.

One of the finest working stables in existence, it is home to the King's ceremonial carriages, state vehicles and Windsor Grey horses. Visitors can explore the historic collection, including the spectacular Gold State Coach and Diamond Jubilee State Coach, while discovering how this important part of the Royal Household continues to support state occasions and royal celebrations today.

Better still, many of The Rubens' Royal Rooms enjoy views overlooking the Royal Mews, allowing guests to experience this unique piece of royal heritage from the comfort of their room.

Find out more about the Royal Mews 

Enjoy a Royal Afternoon Tea at The Palace Lounge

Afternoon Tea is one of Britain's most cherished traditions and an experience perfectly suited to a royal day out in London.

At The Rubens at the Palace, guests can indulge in award-winning Afternoon Tea in The Palace Lounge while overlooking the Royal Mews. Enjoy handcrafted pastries, delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and preserves, all accompanied by exceptional service and royal surroundings. Enjoy this experience from £70 per person.

For an extra-special experience, why not upgrade with a glass of Champagne?

Young royals are well catered for too. The Little Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea (£45 per child under 12) transforms this quintessential British tradition into a magical experience for children, making it the perfect treat after a day spent exploring London's palaces, parks and royal attractions. The Little Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea is available for £45 per child under 12.

Find out more about Afternooon Tea at The Rubens 

Please note: We will be delighted to accommodate your Afternoon Tea with any special dietary restrictions that you and your guests may have, including halal, pescatarian, vegetarian or vegan sandwiches, gluten-free bread, pastries and scones. 

Experience Horse Guards Parade

Steeped in ceremonial tradition, Horse Guards Parade has long been associated with royal pageantry.

Visitors can watch the Changing of the King's Life Guard, which takes place daily at 11:00am (10:00am on Sundays), when mounted soldiers of the Household Cavalry formally exchange duties in a ceremony rich in military tradition. The nearby Household Cavalry Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history, uniforms and daily life of one of Britain's oldest regiments.

Horse Guards Parade also serves as the backdrop for some of the nation's most significant royal occasions, including Trooping the Colour, the annual celebration of the Sovereign's Official Birthday, which typically takes place each June. From military ceremonies to royal celebrations, it remains one of the most atmospheric places to experience Britain's enduring royal traditions.

Explore Kensington Palace

Situated within Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life both past and present.

The birthplace of Queen Victoria and former home of Diana, Princess of Wales, the palace continues to serve as an official residence for members of the Royal Family. Visitors can explore beautifully restored State Apartments, changing exhibitions and the elegant gardens surrounding the palace.

For guests staying at The Rubens, the journey is part of the experience. A scenic 40-minute walk through Green Park and Hyde Park leads directly to Kensington Gardens, passing some of London's most beautiful green spaces and royal landmarks along the way. Alternatively, a short taxi ride will have you at the palace in under 15 minutes.

Beyond the palace, Kensington Gardens is well worth exploring in its own right. Wander tree-lined avenues, discover the beautiful Sunken Garden, visit the iconic Albert Memorial and enjoy views across the Round Pond, all while experiencing one of London's most historic royal parks.

Find out more about Kensington Palace Gardens 

Visit the Tower of London & the Crown Jewels

Standing proudly on the banks of the River Thames, the Tower of London is one of the capital's most iconic landmarks and a fascinating window into nearly 1,000 years of royal history.

Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1066, the Tower has served many roles throughout the centuries, including royal residence, fortress, treasury and prison. Today, it remains one of London's most visited attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to step inside the walls where kings, queens and some of history's most famous figures once lived and were imprisoned.

No visit is complete without seeing the magnificent Crown Jewels, still used in royal ceremonies today, or meeting the famous Yeoman Warders, affectionately known as Beefeaters, who continue to guard the Tower. Keep an eye out for the resident ravens too; according to legend, should they ever leave, the kingdom itself will fall.

From dramatic tales of intrigue and imprisonment to priceless royal treasures, the Tower of London offers an unforgettable journey through Britain's royal past.

Find out more about The Tower of London 

Visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain 

Fans of Diana, Princess of Wales, should not miss a visit to the Diana Memorial Fountain in nearby Hyde Park.

Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2004, the striking memorial was designed to reflect Diana's openness, warmth and love of children. Crafted from Cornish granite, water flows continuously around the circular fountain, creating a peaceful and contemplative space in the heart of one of London's most famous parks.

The fountain is just a short walk from Kensington Palace, where Diana lived for many years, making it a natural addition to any royal-themed itinerary. Surrounded by beautiful parkland, it offers a tranquil place to pause and reflect while exploring Royal London.

Find out more about the Diana Memorial Fountain 

Explore Westminster Abbey 

For over 1,000 years, Westminster Abbey has played a central role in British royal history and remains one of London's most iconic landmarks.

The setting for every coronation since 1066, the Abbey has also hosted numerous royal weddings, including those of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones, and most recently The Prince and Princess of Wales in 2011. It has also been the backdrop to state funerals, national celebrations and countless moments that have shaped British history.

Located just a 15-minute walk from The Rubens at the Palace, visitors can explore the Abbey's magnificent Gothic architecture while discovering the stories of monarchs, poets, scientists and statesmen whose lives and legacies are woven into its walls. A visit offers a fascinating insight into the traditions, ceremonies and people that continue to define the British monarchy today.

Find out more about Westminster Abbey 

Take a Royal Sightseeing Tour

If you would prefer to leave the planning to the experts, The Rubens' trusted partner, Evans Evans, offers a collection of guided tours showcasing the very best of Royal London.

Their popular half-day Royal London tour provides an excellent introduction to the capital's most iconic landmarks, combining a panoramic sightseeing tour with the opportunity to witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, followed by a scenic cruise along the River Thames.

Find out more about Evans Evans’ Royal London tour 

For those looking to delve deeper into Britain's royal history, Evans Evans also offers a comprehensive tour featuring entry to the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels. The experience includes a visit to St Paul's Cathedral, where King Charles III and Diana, Princess of Wales were married in 1981, alongside a Thames river cruise that offers a unique perspective of London's historic skyline.

These expertly guided experiences provide a convenient and insightful way to discover the people, places and traditions that have shaped the British monarchy.

Find out more about Evans Evans’ Crown Jewels tour 

Attending a Royal Garden Party?

Receiving an invitation to one of Buckingham Palace's prestigious Garden Parties is a truly special occasion, and there could be no more convenient place to stay than The Rubens at the Palace. Located directly opposite Buckingham Palace and the Royal Mews, guests can simply stroll across the road and into the Palace grounds, avoiding the stress of navigating London on such an important day.

After an afternoon spent amongst beautifully manicured gardens, historic surroundings and fellow guests from across the country, return to the comfort of the hotel to continue the celebrations with a glass of Champagne in The Leopard Bar or a leisurely dinner at The English Grill.

Stay in the Heart of Royal London

With Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews, St James's Park and many of London's most iconic royal attractions just moments away, there are few better places from which to explore Royal London than The Rubens at the Palace.

Whether you're fascinated by royal history, captivated by ceremonial traditions or simply looking to experience one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods, a stay at The Rubens places you at the centre of it all.