The places behind the stories
Watch a parliamentary debate, enter a royal residence or discover Shakespeare, opera and ballet. These visits have different calendars, booking rules and security arrangements.
England · Westminster, London
Overseas visitors can watch debates in the Commons and Lords public galleries free of charge.
General debates normally need no ticket. PMQs is separately ticketed. Visit when the House is sitting and allow for queues and security.
Use Westminster Underground station and the Cromwell Green visitor entrance.
England · Westminster, London
Discover rooms behind the famous façade through seasonal State Rooms admission or separately booked guided visits.
State Rooms are seasonal. Selected East Wing tours run 6 November 2026–31 January 2027; check the rooms included and arrange step-free access in advance.
Walk from Victoria or Green Park; use the entrance on your ticket.
England · Windsor
Explore State Apartments, Queen Mary's extraordinary Dolls' House and the royal history of St George's Chapel.
Normally Thursday–Monday; the chapel is closed to sightseeing on Sundays. Check royal-event closures and book a dated ticket.
Walk uphill from Windsor & Eton Riverside, or arrive at Windsor & Eton Central.
Scotland · Edinburgh
Edinburgh's working royal palace connects the story of Mary, Queen of Scots with today's royal ceremonies.
Check dated opening and closures before booking. Access to Mary's rooms has restrictions; consult the official access guide.
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Edinburgh Waverley, at the foot of the Royal Mile.
England · Covent Garden, London
Choose a Royal Ballet or Royal Opera performance, or explore backstage with a separately booked theatre tour.
Check the specific event's age guidance, running time and seating view. Bag checks apply; avoid large luggage.
Covent Garden is the nearest Underground station. Plan accessible journeys separately with TfL.
England · Stratford-upon-Avon
Watch the Royal Shakespeare Company beside the Avon, or discover the craft of theatre through tours and exhibitions.
Book the exact production and theatre. Tours are separate; check accessible seating and your return journey after evening performances.
Travel to Stratford-upon-Avon station, then walk or take a taxi to Waterside.
England · Bankside, London
Enjoy the open-air Globe, the indoor Sam Wanamaker Playhouse or a guided tour on London's Bankside.
Choose standing or seated tickets carefully. Programmes vary by season; dress for your venue and check access arrangements.
Walk from Blackfriars or London Bridge, or arrive by river at Bankside Pier.