TOP 10 ROYAL RESIDENCES

Castles, palaces and stately homes open a window into the history and private lives of the British monarchy

- Matt Havercroft

1 Buckingham Palace, London

If there was such a thing as the king of royal residences, then Buckingham Palace - the official London home of the UK's sovereigns since 1837 – surely wears the crown.

Vast, imposing and iconic, it is synonymous with royal celebrations, and a major draw for the many thousands of tourists who make the journey down The Mall to take a tour or watch the Changing of the Guard several times weekly.

In 1703, the Duke of Buckingham built a residence on a site a little west of the old Palace of Westminster. Buckingham House was then acquired by King George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte and their children, and was subsequently expanded by John Nash and Edward Blore, transforming it into the palace we see today.

With no fewer than 775 rooms – including 19 State Rooms (formal entertainment and reception chambers), 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms – Buckingham Palace is very much a working property. It hosts state banquets, receptions and investitures, and serves as the venue for the prime minister’s weekly audiences with the monarch. And royals have appeared on its balcony for weddings, jubilees and national celebrations.

Outside are the largest private gardens in London, spanning 16 hectares and featuring more than 1,000 trees.

The state rooms are open to visitors each summer, and on selected dates in winter and spring. Standard admission is £32/£16 for adults/children if booked in advance; guided tours are available. rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

2 Highgrove House, Gloucestershire