Historic UK Palaces You Can Visit Today (And Why You Should)

The United Kingdom is filled with ancient buildings and historic architecture, with countless palaces that showcase their grandeur and past monarchy. From London to the hidden gems in quiet market towns, these palaces are not just historical structures, but stories built from stone. Many of them are open to the public, offering a peek into centuries of royal life, cultural change, and sometimes, spooky tales. In this article, we explore some of the most interesting palaces in the UK that should be on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list.

Buckingham Palace – London

No list of British palaces is complete without Buckingham Palace. This is the official London residence of the British monarch; it’s a symbol of the nation’s identity and traditions. The palace is open to visitors during the summer months, tourists can see the State Rooms and catch the famous switching of the Guard ceremony. The palace, which has served as the monarch’s official home since Queen Victoria’s reign, houses over 700 rooms and a royal collection of priceless art.

Kensington Palace – London

Kensington Palace was once the childhood home of Queen Victoria, with a long royal history. Today, it houses members of the royal family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales. The palace is open to the public all year round and hosts exhibitions explaining the lives of its former residents. Its breathtaking gardens and beautiful interior make it a favourite among history enthusiasts and tourists.

Hampton Court Palace – Richmond

Hampton Court Palace is located just outside London, with Tudor and Baroque architecture. It was built in the early 16th century, it was most known for being home to King Henry VIII. The palace boasts a magnificent Great Hall, historic kitchens, and staggering gardens. Visitors can roam the infamous Haunted Gallery, where Catherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife, is believed to roam, pleading for mercy.

Blenheim Palace – Oxfordshire

Blenheim Palace is not a royal palace, but it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. It was built in the early 18th century, and it’s a great example of English Baroque architecture. The estate features opulent state rooms, stunning gardens designed by Capability Brown, and many exhibits about the Churchill family and British history.

Holyrood Palace – Edinburgh

Nestled in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It has a long and eventful history, much of which is linked to Mary, Queen of Scots. The palace is open to the public and houses the historic apartment of Mary herself. The nearby Holyrood Abbey ruins and beautiful gardens add to the site’s appeal.

Stanley Palace – Chester

Tucked away in the city of Chester, Stanley Palace is a lesser-known palace that stands out for its rich history and hauntings. Built in 1591, it is one of Chester’s most well-preserved timber-framed buildings. It was originally a grand townhouse; the palace has seen centuries of changes and is said to be one of the most haunted buildings in the area. For those with a love of the paranormal, the Stanley Palace is allegedly haunted. It is a must-visit location, with countless reports of ghostly apparitions and strange occurrences. Many tourists report that it’s as much a spiritual experience as it is a historical one.

St James’s Palace – London

While it’s not open to the public, St James’s Palace is one of the oldest royal residences in London. Henry VIII first built the building in the 1530s. And it has hosted numerous and significant royal events. Today, it’s the ceremonial meeting place of the Accession Council and houses several members of the royal family. While you can’t go inside, the palace’s exterior and its place in royal protocol make it a great place to stop and sightsee.

Eltham Palace – Greenwich

Eltham Palace is a medieval property with a 1930s Art Deco design. It was once a royal residence, after Stephen and Virginia Courtauld transformed it into a glamorous 20th-century home. Eltham Palace has a 15th-century Great Hall with stylish modern interiors, making it an interesting place for anyone interested in architecture and design.

Conclusion

Whether architecture, royal history, or ghostly legends peak your interest, the UK offers range of palaces worth exploring. From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the haunted hallways of Stanley Palace, each location tells its own story. As you plan your next travel adventure, consider travelling back in time by visiting these timeless structures that continue to guide Britain’s cultural and historical landscape. If you decide you wish to take some ghost hunting equipment, GhostHuntingElectronics is a great place to start.