Royal Collection Trust - Experience a royal summer

 

Experience a royal summer This summer, enjoy unforgettable experiences at the official royal residences. The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh is open daily from 6 July, offering plenty of opportunity to explore its historic splendour. Buckingham Palace opens its doors for the summer on 11 July, and you can enjoy family-friendly activities at the Royal Mews, perfect for all ages. Plus, don't miss our exciting digital event to discover the fascinating history of the gardens at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, bringing the royal residences directly to you. PLAN YOUR VISIT

Digital Event: The History of Royal Gardens Online 30 July 14:00 Did you know the first recorded gardens at the Palace of Holyroodhouse were the medieval gardens cared for by the monks of Holyrood Abbey? Join our online lecture to explore their fascinating history. BOOK TICKETS NOW

Family activities at the Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace Keep the kids entertained at the Royal Mews this summer. Little ones can dress up in livery, try out a royal carriage and learn how to tack up our wooden pony. Don’t miss out on the fun. WHAT TO SEE AND DO AT THE ROYAL MEWS

Royal Week at the Palace of Holyroodhouse  This week is Royal Week at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, when the Monarch spends a week in residence. The King will be meeting Scots from all walks of life and welcoming them to a Garden Party at the Palace in recognition of their good work. From 6 July the Palace will be open daily for you to explore its magnificent history and beauty. DISCOVER MORE ABOUT ROYAL WEEK 1949 colour portraits of Princess Margaret These stunning colour images of Princess Margaret were taken by renowned portrait photographer Cecil Beaton in 1949. Commissioned for the Princess's 19th birthday, the images showcase Beaton's distinctive portrait style, inspired by Hollywood glamour. WATCH THE FILM

Special display at Windsor  Celebrate 100 years of Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House with us. A special selection of tiny books was created for the occasion, including a miniature version of The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Visit Windsor Castle to see these delightful tiny books on display as part of the celebration. SEE THE TINY BOOKS AT WINDSOR CASTLE A royal visit to Edinburgh  In 1822, George IV became the first reigning British monarch to visit Scotland in nearly 200 years. During his historic visit to Edinburgh, he attended a reception at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in full Highland dress, though his kilt was famously too short. LEARN MORE ABOUT HIS HISTORIC VISIT

London evening events These evening events all include time to view the exhibition Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography, and a glass of wine or soft drink to enjoy while you explore The King's Gallery.

In conversation event Fashion of Royal Portraiture Thursday, 11 July  18:30 - 21:00 Join Justine Picardie, former editor-in-chief of Harper's Bazaar UK, Caroline de Guitaut, Surveyor of the King’s Works of Art and Alessandro Nasini, curator of Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography as they discuss the iconic fashion captured in royal portraiture.  BOOK FASHION OF ROYAL PORTRAITURE In conversation event Photography as Art Thursday, 8 August  18:30 - 21:00 Join Philippe Garner, esteemed auctioneer at Sotherby's and Alessandro Nasini, exhibition curator of Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography, as they discuss how photography became accepted as fine art.  BOOK PHOTOGRAPHY AS ART Creative course How to take portrait photos on your phone Thursday, 5 September  18:30 - 21:00 This hands-on, practical workshop led by photographer and art educator Marysa Dowling, will take participants through the creative process of producing a portrait photo on your phone.  BOOK HOW TO TAKE PORTRAIT PHOTOS

From the shop

Picnic essentials Pack your Buckingham Palace picnic hamper full to the brim with delicious treats and a Buckingham Palace picnic blanket, all from our royal picnic essentials range.