Everyone’s wish when coming to the UK capital is to see Buckingham Palace, which is normal since it’s one of the most famous tourist attractions. Almost every type of tourist attraction you can think of can be found and seen in the capital of the United Kingdom.
However, London’s castles are even more impressive for many people since they are very old and represent a part of history. Of course, there are many dark stories behind their walls since castles were built centuries ago. On the other hand, they are an exciting place to visit since it’s like time-travelling.
The castles in London are easily reachable by public transport or taxis. Still, you can get a much more relaxing and luxurious experience by hiring a professional chauffeur from companies like Simber and enjoy a smooth ride from one castle to another.
So, let’s see the top five incredible London castles you should visit while in the UK capital.
Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the most visited castles on a global scale, so it isn’t surprising that UNESCO included it in the World Heritage Sites list. The two primary reasons are because of its architectural and cultural significance for the United Kingdom and the rest of the world.
It’s an ancient fort that you can find on the banks of the River Thames in the City of London. If you like history and discovering places that are more than a thousand years old, this place is perfect for you since it’s a significant piece of the development history of London.
Also, Tower Bridge is close since it’s around 6 minutes away by foot from the Tower of London, so you get to see two fantastic tourist attractions simultaneously.
Hever Castle
It’s also worth using London private tours to visit Hever Castle, which is located only 48 km from London in the village of Hever, Kent, near Edenbridge. Don’t worry; the professional driver knows the place and the fastest route to get there.
This castle was built in the 13th century, and probably no one even thought that tourists would visit it today, which makes it even more special. It was the home of the Boleyn family from 1462 to 1539. Anne Boleyn spent her early youth in this place after her father, Thomas, inherited it in 1505.
Today, its owners are the Guthrie family and Broadland Properties Limited, and the best thing is that it’s open to visitors. Of course, you’ll have to pay a fee for entrance, but it’s cheap considering what you get to see.
Windsor Castle
It would be a shame to come to the UK capital and not make a private tour London to visit Windsor Castle.
Why?
Because this castle is the oldest and largest inhabited one worldwide and has been the family home of British queens and kings for around 1,000 years. It was the Queen’s official residence, making it even more attractive for tourists from all over the globe.
The most famous attractions include the private apartments of George IV, the State Apartments furnished with the Royal Collection, and Queen Mary’s doll’s house, famous worldwide. Also, you get the chance to visit Windsor town, which is also beautiful, while enjoying a bit of royalty.
Kensington Palace
Another royal residence, Kensington Palace is also worth visiting since it’s one of the most beautiful palaces but also an official residence of many royals. Currently, it’s the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke and Duchess of Kent, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and Princess Michael of Kent.
You can visit the State Rooms since they are open to the public and managed by Historic Royal Palaces, an independent charity and nonprofit organisation. In addition, Kensington also displays various objects and paintings from the Royal Collection.
An interesting trivia is that Queen Victoria was born in the dining room at this palace in 1819. This moment seems strange in today’s modern world, but back then, the challenge was that hot water could be brought up more easily from the kitchens.
Hampton Court Palace
This place is a royal palace that’s only 19 km from central London.
Interestingly, the building of Hampton Court began in 1514 for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the chief minister of Henry VIII. However, in 1529, since Thomas fell from favour, the cardinal gave it to the king to check his disgrace. Nevertheless, the place became one of Henry’s favourite residences, and he enlarged it to be more accommodative for his sizable retinue of courtiers.
So, which one is going to be the first castle on your travelling bucket list?
No matter the choice, make sure to hire a professional chauffeur since it’s a lot more comfortable to travel to many places in a luxurious vehicle!
