The Mail on Sunday

Meet Robert Hardman of the Mail on a Palace tour

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WITH celebratio­ns for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee just a month away, we’re offering readers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life and homes of the Royal Family on an enthrallin­g two-night tour.

In the company of Her Majesty’s renowned biographer, the Mail’s very own Robert Hardman, you’ll experience London’s regal history with visits to Hampton Court Palace, the Tower of London, Westminste­r Abbey and Windsor Castle, where you’ll be treated to a private tour of the State Apartments and enjoy a glass of champagne.

From King Henry VIII to Queen Elizabeth II, 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.

As a Royal writer, commentato­r and film-maker, Robert Hardman has had privileged access to the Royal Family and the Royal Household for more than 25 years and can give you an insider’s view on their past, present and future. Now a popular Mail columnist, Robert will join you for an exclusive talk and Q&A session. You will receive a copy of his book Queen Of Our Times: The Life Of Elizabeth II (one per booking), which he will happily sign for you.

REASONS TO BOOK

Exclusive talk by Robert Hardman: One of the UK’s most respected Royal reporters, Robert has covered more than 60 internatio­nal tours and interviewe­d many members of the Royal Family, including Prince Charles. He is the author of biography Queen Of Our Times: The Life Of Elizabeth II. Robert will give you an extraordin­ary insight into the workings of the Royal Family during a private talk and Q&A.

Royal castles and palaces: You will hear more 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 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.

Explore Hampton Court Palace: 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 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. 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. After the tour, you’ll enjoy a glass of champagne. Historic hotel stay: You’ll be based at The Talbot, a charming former coaching inn in the heart of the Surrey village of Ripley. The hotel has many period features from its 500-year history and is said to have been used as a hitching post by Lord Nelson. His love affair with Lady Hamilton reputedly blossomed here.

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 ?? ?? MAJESTIC: Henry VIII’s Hampton Court
Palace, above, and Buckingham Palace and Victoria Memorial, left
MAJESTIC: Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace, above, and Buckingham Palace and Victoria Memorial, left

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