Who doesn’t love a royal wedding? From streets adorned in Union Jacks to British pubs bustling with celebratory drinks, it’s a time when the country goes royal-crazy.
But if your invitation got stuck in the post, don’t worry – you can check out the royal wedding venues for yourself. Here are our top picks:
Windsor Castle
Number one on the list is the venue for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2018 wedding – Windsor Castle. Renowned for being Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite royal residence and her final resting place, the Castle is one of the most beautiful and important landmarks in the UK. Surrounded by gorgeous parkland and steeped in rich British history, everyone should witness the beauty of this remarkable estate at least once in their life.
Take a trip to Windsor Castle and walk in the footsteps of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as you explore the exquisite St George’s Chapel. As the resting place and wedding location of some of the most influential and famous monarchs in history, the Chapel is an absolute must-visit.
Westminster Abbey
Next is the magnificent Westminster Abbey. Situated in Parliament Square in Westminster, the Abbey offers spectacular views from both the inside and the outside. The large Gothic abbey church is a World Heritage Site and offers thousands of years of history.
Venture into Westminster Abbey to discover the royal wedding venue of both Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge’s 2011 wedding and Queen Elizabeth II’s and Prince Philip’s in 1947.
It’s also home to the Coronation Chair, Poet’s Corner and some of the most fascinating architecture in the capital.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most mesmerising buildings in the country. It has welcomed guests from across the globe since the 17th century and is also home to the world-famous Whispering Gallery (test it out for yourself!).
Soak in the 1981 royal wedding venue of Princess Diana and Prince Charles as you walk through the vast expanse of the lower Cathedral before climbing to the glorious heights of the Golden Gallery.
Buckingham Palace
Unbeknownst to some, Queen Elizabeth II’s former home held a royal wedding in 1896 with the backdrop of St James’s Park. Although not the regular choice for royal weddings, Buckingham Palace is one of the most interesting places to visit. With its plush royal ballroom, historic throne room and 42-acre garden, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to look first.
Walk up the famous golden staircase, enjoy the glorious State Rooms still used by the royal family, and see artwork from Rembrandt and Rubens.
The Chapel Royal
A little less known than the previous location, the Chapel Royal, situated within the grounds of St James’s Palace, has hosted many royal weddings. Most notably, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert married at the Chapel Royal in 1840.
Forever the trendsetter, Queen Victoria did not wear the traditional robes but instead a stunning ivory, silk and satin dress, and orange blossoms in her hair. Sparking a fashion revolution, the floral motif became very popular during the Victoria era and beyond, with royal brides, including Queen Elizabeth II, incorporating the florals into their wedding dresses.
Can’t get enough of the royals? Dive deep into the regal world with Golden Tours.