Discovering Royal History: My Dream Destination in London, England
Lately, I’ve had the travel bug, and since I’m moving to Australia in less than a month, I’ve been thinking about all the other destinations in the world that I want to visit. London, England has always fascinated me with its long history of kings, queens, and iconic landmarks. It’s a place that seems to transport you back in time to the Medieval world. As a huge history buff, England is top of my bucket for countries to visit.
Whenever I think of visiting, my mind immediately races to four iconic spots that connect to the English royal history: The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and lastly Baker Street to appease the reader inside me.
1. The Tower of London
The first place on my list is the Tower of London, arguably London’s most iconic historical landmark and a symbol of England’s royal history and political power. Built by William the Conqueror in 1078, this fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and even a zoo.
The Tower is perhaps best known for the executions of three queens, including two of Henry VIII’s wives—Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. It’s also infamous for the mystery of the disappearance of King Edward V and his brother Richard, known as the Princes in the Tower. Of course, no visit would be complete without seeing the Crown Jewels, a dazzling display of regalia used in royal coronations.
2. Westminster Abbey
Second on my bucket list is Westminster Abbey, a breathtaking example of Gothic architecture and a sacred site where many of England’s kings and queens have been crowned and buried. Founded in 960 AD, Westminster Abbey has hosted every coronation since William the Conqueror in 1066, including the recent crowning of King Charles III.
Westminster Abbey is also the final resting place of many English monarchs including Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth I.
3. Buckingham Palace
Of course, a trip to London would be incomplete without visiting Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Buckingham Palace has been at the center of royal life since it became Queen Victoria’s official residence in 1837. It includes 775 rooms, stunning gardens, and an iconic facade that are the epitome of royal splendor.
My dream would be to meet any member of the royal family, even though the chances of that happening would be slim. But even getting to see the King or the Prince and Princess of Wales would be good enough for me.
4. Baker Street
Lastly, as a reader, I couldn’t possibly leave the Baker Street Museum off my itinerary. Located on 221B Baker Street in London, The Baker Street Museum is a reference to the home in which Sherlock Holmes lived. The Sherlock Holmes Museum offers a glimpse into Victorian London and showcases the detective's most famous cases and adventures.
As someone passionate about the royal family, visiting these historic sites in person would be a dream come true. It’s not just about seeing the landmarks, but about feeling the stories and history they hold—stories that have shaped not only England but much of the world. And who knows? Maybe while visiting Baker Street, I’ll solve a mystery or two of my own!
