To all Members looking for (AARP) things to do in London,
Rest assured, there is more to do in London than just visit Big Ben. Read on for great suggestions on activities and tours available in the United Kingdom’s capital city.
Walk in the Footsteps of British Royalty
For everything royal, there’s no better place to go than London. Still flush with excitement over the recent royal wedding? You can visit the chapel where Prince Henry and Meghan Markle exchanged vows at Windsor Castle. Marvel at the glitz of the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. Then, rejuvenate by sipping tea and feasting on cakes. A proper British high tea is in order while gazing out at Buckingham Palace. If you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of Her Majesty the Queen!
The Tower of London Tours
AARP Members can book tickets for tours of the Tower of London at the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia®
Join a tour led by Yeoman Warders (every 30 minutes). Listen to stories of intrigue, imprisonment, and execution. All occurred within the Tower grounds, including the infamous beheading of Anne Boleyn. Glossy black ravens perch on the old stone walls of this secure fortress. It was once a prison, a coin mint, and even a zoo. See the glittering Crown Jewels, including the Sovereign’s Sceptre. A piece topped with the largest quality-cut white diamond in the world. It weighs an impressive 530.2 carats (3.7 ounces). If you only have one day in London looking for things to do, don’t miss The Tower of London!
AARP Members can book tickets for tours of Windsor Castle at the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia®
The queen spends her weekends at Windsor Castle, and you can too! It is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Meander through ornate drawing rooms with walls of red brocade. These halls feature gold framed artwork by the likes of Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci. Relive the splendor of the latest royal wedding in St. George’s Chapel. Here, Prince Henry and Meghan Markle exchanged vows. Now they reign as Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The castle also houses the miniature marvel of Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. This piece includes minute details from tiny leather-bound books to miniscule vases.
Westminster Abbey & Houses of Parliament Tours
AARP Members can book tickets for tours of Westminster Abbey & Houses of Parliament at the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia®
Immerse yourself in the ritual and tradition of the majestic Westminster Abbey. The site of British coronation ceremonies since the days of William the Conqueror in 1099. It has hosted 16 royal weddings and is the final resting place of many monarchs. You may hear the angelic voices of the boys’ choir practicing. However, great thinkers and artists lie buried here as well. Keep an eye out for the tombs of Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Charles Dickens. Under the iconic Big Ben clock tower, enter the Grand Houses of Parliament. See first-hand where the British government operates. Then, peruse the portrait-filled Royal Gallery before your next London adventure.
AARP Members can book tickets for KensingtonPalace Tours at the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia®
For a glimpse of everyday royal life, visit the history-rich Kensington Palace. Kensington Palace is currently the official residence of 11 royal family members. These include Prince William and Kate, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It was also the former London home of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana. Explore the rooms and gardens where Queen Victoria spent her childhood. Examine diary excerpts that reveal her fascinating life in her own words. Similarly, admire Princess Diana’s wardrobe. The collection ranges from elegant to the iconic flack vest she wore performing humanitarian work. Glean intimate details about her life in Diana: Her Fashion Story exhibition.
Afternoon Tea at The Palace Hotel
AARP Members can book tickets for Afternoon Tea at the Palace Hotel at the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia®
After a full morning of sightseeing, relax as you partake in afternoon tea. The Palace Hotel overlooks the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace. Scrumptious finger sandwiches of smoked salmon, cucumber, and cream cheese await you. Freshly baked treats like lemon curd cupcakes and English rose macaroons will call to you. You’re sure to feel like royalty while spreading sweet jam and clotted cream on a warm scone. Sip aromatic tea surrounded by the glamor of The Rubens at the Palace Hotel.
The Household Cavalry Museum Tickets
AARP Members can book tickets for tours of The Household Cavalry Museum at the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia®
If you love royal processions, military history, or—like the Queen herself—horses; don’t miss a visit to the Household Cavalry Museum. Catch the glint of gold helms and the synchronized clop of hooves at the changing of the horse guard. The changing of the guard occurs daily at 10 am (11 am on Sundays). Furthermore, enter the museum to watch soldiers untacking their noble steeds. A audio-guide and interactive exhibits allow you to discover more than 350 years of Cavalry history. Learn about the rigorous training endured to protect Her Majesty the Queen.
