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.
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