The Mail on Sunday

Take the ultimate Royal palaces tour with the Mail’s Robert Hardman

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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?

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.

 ?? ?? 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
GRISLY SECRETS: The Tower of London on the banks of the Thames, once a prison for traitors, now home to the Crown Jewels
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 GRISLY SECRETS: The Tower of London on the banks of the Thames, once a prison for traitors, now home to the Crown Jewels

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