The Ultimate Guide to All Things Royal in London

A thoroughly Goring guide to royal London

Since William the Conqueror decided he liked the look of the place, London has been the seat of British (ignore the fact he was French) Monarchy for nearly a thousand years. Ceremonies and traditions that date back centuries are still very much part of life in the capital from the grandeur of the King’s escort for the State opening of Parliament to the spectacular changing of the guard. If you have a keen eye for anything royal, you’re in the right place. 

Royal tombs

As one might imagine, there have been a long list of monarchs to grace the British throne over a thousand-year period, many of whom have been laid to rest in Westminster Abbey. Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, the parents of notorious meat-fanatic Henry VIII are buried here. Their granddaughter, Mary I, who was probably too fond of burning heretics, shares a tomb with her sister, Elizabeth I, despite once arresting her on suspicion of rebellion. Their cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots, who Elizabeth had executed for the same reason is also buried here. Suffice to say, if they could all talk now, there would be a lot of shouting. 

Royal swans

It is more than likely you will come across swans on your sojourn around London’s magnificent Royal Parks. If you find yourself thinking any of the following: “Gosh, I would like to eat that swan, stirred as I am by the spirit of Henry VIII” or “I claim that swan as my own! It’s coming home with me!” please put the brakes on. All unmarked mute swans on open water belong to the reigning monarch (also known as the Seigneur of the Swans) and have done so since the 12th century. 

Royal Parks

Speaking of Royal Parks, you have eight to choose from, including The Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill, which has just opened The Queen Elizabeth II Garden. A peaceful two-acre retreat filled with colourful wildlife-friendly plants, it has a straight path right through the middle of it to reflect the Queen’s steadfast loyalty and service to the nation. 

Royal shopping 

It is one thing to dress like a queen. It’s quite another to be scented like one. Les Senteurs, London’s oldest independent perfumery, was known to create fragrances for Queen Victoria – Orange Blossom was a particular favourite as was Bulgarian Rose. A brief stroll from The Goring to Elizabeth Street will bring you to its hallowed doors. Just follow your nose. 

Royal hotel 

During all these adventures, it would make sense to stay in a very smart and famous five-star hotel with close ties to the royal family - wait, that’s us. The Goring is privileged to have a long-standing relationship with the British Monarchy, hosting the late Queen Elizabeth and her mother, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother on many occasions, as well as The Princess of Wales the night before her wedding. Whether it’s taking Afternoon Tea on the Veranda, tucking into the Queen Mother’s favourite dish, Eggs Drumkilbo or staying in the Royal Suite, The Goring could not be better placed – or better connected – for a marvellous deep dive into the best of Royal London.