Exclusive for Mail on Sunday readers: Take the ultimate Royal palaces tour with Robert Hardman
This two-night tour will give you a fascinating glimpse into the lives, homes and history of the Royal Family.
Celebrate the capital’s regal connections and prepare for Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee on visits to Hampton Court Palace, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Windsor Castle, where you’ll go behind-the-scenes on a private tour of the State Apartments and enjoy a champagne reception.
From Henry VIII to the present Queen, the British monarchy features some of history’s most captivating figures – as well as its most grisly tales – and these iconic palaces on the Thames are the ultimate seats of power. So who better to give you a unique insight into them than our very own Robert Hardman?
Grisly secrets: The Tower of London on the banks of the Thames, once a prison for traitors, now home to the Crown Jewels
OUR SPECIAL GUEST
You will be joined by Robert Hardman
A journalist for more than 30 years, Robert Hardman is one of the UK’s leading authors and commentators on the Royal Family. His books include Monarchy, Queen Of The World and Our Queen, and he has written and produced documentaries including Prince Philip – The Royal Family Remembers, Anne – The Princess Royal At 70, George III – The Genius Of The Mad King, Charles At 60 and The Queen’s Castle for the BBC and ITV. He now writes the How I See It column in the Daily Mail.
As a Royal writer, commentator and film-maker, he has had privileged access to the Family and the Household for more than 25 years and can give you an insider’s view, on their past, present and future. Robert, a much loved Mail columnist, will join you for an exclusive talk and Q&A.
You will also receive a copy of Robert’s book Queen Of Our Times: The Life Of Elizabeth II (one per booking) which he will happily sign for you.
Don’t miss your chance to explore these four magnificent palaces and celebrate 1,000 years of regal history on the ultimate Royal tour of the capital.
REASONS TO BOOK
Exclusive talk by Robert Hardman: As one of the UK’s most respected Royal reporters, Robert Hardman will give you an extraordinary insight into the workings of the modern British Royal Family in a private talk and Q&A session. He has covered more than 60 international tours and has interviewed many members of the Royal Family including Prince Charles, and is the author of the forthcoming biography Queen Of Our Times: The Life Of Elizabeth II.
Royal castles and palaces: The walls may not be able to talk, but you will hear astonishing true tales of the monarchy in the most important Royal houses across the city: Westminster Abbey, which has witnessed the coronation of every monarch since William the Conqueror; the Tower of London, the mighty fortress that is now the permanent home of the Crown Jewels; and Buckingham Palace (exterior view only), the official Royal residence in London since Queen Victoria’s accession in 1837.
Hampton Court with Robert Harding: You’ll enjoy a fascinating guided tour of Hampton Court, forever associated with Henry VIII and the Tudor court. Admire the magnificent Great Hall and the huge Tudor kitchens, and walk down the infamous Haunted Gallery to the State Apartments.
Behind the scenes at Windsor Castle: Another highlight will be Windsor Castle, a Royal stronghold since just after the Norman Conquest, where you will journey through 1,000 years of Royal history on a private tour of the State Apartments at a time when the castle is otherwise closed to the public. You’ll also enjoy a glass of champagne at the end of the tour.
Historic hotel stay: You’ll be based at The Talbot, a charming former coaching inn in the historic Surrey village of Ripley. It has many period features from its 500-year history and was reputedly visited by Lord Nelson – it is said his love affair with Lady Hamilton blossomed here.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Two nights’ bed-and- breakfast at the four-star Talbot Ripley Hotel in Surrey.
- First- and second-night set menu dinner at the hotel restaurant.
- Exclusive talk and Q&A with Robert Hardman.
- Private, after-hours tour of Windsor Castle and champagne reception.
- London palaces tour including Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace exterior and the Tower of London, and all admission fees.
- Coach transfers.
- Services of a tour manager throughout.
YOUR ITINERARY: DAY 1 Check-in, afternoon tea and Windsor DAY 2 Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, National Gallery and exclusive talk with Robert Hardman DAY 3 The Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace
HOW TO BOOK
The dates: October 10 to 12 and 17 to 19, 2022. The price: From £649pp*.
Call 02045 719 750 quoting ref MOS HARDMAN.To find out more, visit mailtravel.co.uk/royaltour.
Terms and conditions: * Price based on two sharing a twin/double room. Single supplement: £112. Itinerary subject to change. Transport to hotel not included. Our travel partner, Travel Editions, is ABTA-bonded. For full terms and conditions, go to mailtravel.co.uk/royaltour.
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