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Historic Royal Palaces blog

Insights and behind the scenes from our palaces

Insights and behind the scenes from our palaces

400 Years of William Shakespeare at Hampton Court

November 6, 2023

On 8 November 1623, John Heminges and Henry Condell, completed the collected works of William Shakespeare – now known as the ‘First Folio’. Here, we explore how this period was brought to life at Hampton Court Palace this summer, using research into the playwright’s palace connections.

A Year in the Life of a New Yeoman Warder

October 27, 2023

By tradition, only 422 people have ever held the role of Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London. Here, Yeoman Warder Simon Towe, who joined the ranks of the Yeoman Body in November 2022, shares an eventful first year in his new life.

Secrets of Henry VIII's Whitehall: The Archaeology of a Lost Palace

August 17, 2023

More than 300 years after the destruction of Whitehall Palace by fire, archaeological excavation and scientific analysis continue to uncover the lost stories and secrets of Henry VIII's once elaborate home.

Dressed to Impress: Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection in the Jewel House

June 26, 2023

Curator Charles Farris introduces some of the amazing ceremonial dress now on display in the Jewel House exhibition.

Smoke Screen testing at the Great Pagoda

June 6, 2023

One of the most surprising periods in the history of the Great Pagoda is its use as a secret testing site during World War II. Curator Polly Putnam picks up the tale of this fascinating discovery.

Royal Trees at Hillsborough Castle

May 31, 2023

Claire Woods, Gardens Manager at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, reflects on some of the trees planted by members of the Royal Family, which are still available to view in the castle grounds today, and the newest addition for 2023.

Coronation Memorabilia: History and Tradition

May 12, 2023

Historic Royal Palaces Curator Lee Prosser reflects on the long history of this fascinating aspect of royal history.

Charles II's Coronation Procession

April 24, 2023

As the country prepares for the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, our Curator of Historic Buildings, Alden Gregory, takes a look at the coronation of the last King Charles to sit on the throne and the last coronation in which the Tower of London played a starring role.

Preparing the Peace

April 10, 2023

Reflecting on Hillsborough Castle’s political role, 25 years on from the Good Friday Agreement.

Archive posts

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