The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee: Celebrating 70 Years of Service
In 2022, Her Majesty The Queen became the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee after 70 years of service. In commemoration of The Queen and the run-up to the Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend, April Hamilton is setting off celebrations with this post packed with special places to see, things to do and gifts to give.
Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend: Special places to visit
For a memorable festive weekend, immerse yourself in the traditions, culture and architecture of the Royals by paying a visit to one of the Historic Houses in England – including Hampton Court Palace, Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.
Hampton Court Palace
A visit to the home of Henry VIII boasts plenty to discover, including the Great Hall, Tudor kitchens, and baroque palace. Flush with outdoor space and over 60 acres of luscious gardens, you won’t run out of things to do or see.
To get as close as ever to Henry VIII, including his private life and public drama, a visit to Hampton Court Palace is a must. Great Hall is incredibly large and spacious, with immaculately-preserved interiors. Walls are decorated with 16-century tapestries – be luxurious wall coverings that are the centrepiece of English domestic interiors.
Buckingham Palace
Perhaps the most notable royal residence, Buckingham Palace is situated in the heart of London. Since 1837, Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence to the majority of the Royal Family.
Characterised by its baroque architectural style, Buckingham Palace is outfitted with 775 rooms, an entertainment room (the largest in London), and a 40-acre garden. Interiors are decorated with invaluable artwork courtesy of the Royal Collection, a curved all-marble Grand Staircase. The forecourt gates offer visitors a spectacle made possible by the iconic “Changing of the Guard” ceremony.
Windsor Castle
Touted as the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and royal residence to The Queen, Windsor Castle is a short 22-minute train ride from London Paddington. The Castle’s Long Walk will play host to the world’s “largest dinner table” as part of Platinum Jubilee festivities.
Built in the Victorian, Georgian and Gothic architectural styles, a tour of the castle and grounds offers visitors a glimpse into this historical palace including its art and interiors.
In celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the Castle is hosting a special display commemorating Her Majesty’s Coronation at Westminster Abbey on 2 June 1953. Learn more about the art exhibition here.
Kensington Palace
Affectionately known as the home of the young royals, Kensington Palace is also the birthplace of Queen Victoria. There’s a world to discover here – from Victoria’s re-imagined childhood rooms to the spectacular King’s State Apartments and Queen’s State Apartments. Both apartments dazzle with displays of lavishness, offering outsiders a glimpse into the private lives of royalty. Outside in the palace gardens, settle down and enjoy the Platinum Jubilee Blooms, a vibrant display of flowers to commemorate The Queen.
Gifts fit for royalty: Platinum Jubilee Gift Inspiration
Whether you’re looking for a souvenir to memorialise the weekend or simply looking to inspire your family and friends with commemorative gifts, here are some luxury gift ideas to celebrate this once in a lifetime event. Carry around a piece of history with this Large Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Shopper Bag from Harrods.
These Louise Sinclair Royal Crown Charms are dashingly elegant and sophisticated – a perfect treat for yourself or special someone in your life.
Browse through the full collection of royal memorabilia at Historic Royal Palaces. Grab yourself a bottle of Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut Platinum Jubilee Limited Edition from Waitrose.
Kick back and relax with exquisite British treats and treasures including snacks, G&T and some of the UK’s finest wines in this Harvey Nichols Celebration Hamper.
On a similar note, Fortnum and Mason have outdone themselves with their extravagant Platinum Jubilee Celebration Collection, complete with The Jubilee Cool Picnic Bag, Jubilee Biscuit Collection, Jubilee Plate (expertly finished with gold detailing) and more.
There’s no shortage of places to see and things to do during the upcoming Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Weekend. From marvelling at luxury interiors to enjoying the wide range of planned street parties. Whatever you do, we hope you’ve been inspired to kick off celebrations right away!
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