You do not need a palace-sized budget to enjoy royal London, and many of the city best royal experiences cost little or nothing
Palaces Without the Price Tag
London can be an expensive city, but some of its most memorable royal experiences are free or very affordable. If the London Prat piece on Prince William reportedly calling Earl Spencer and Harry traitors has you curious about the royals, but your wallet is feeling less than regal, this guide is for you.
The Headlines, Briefly
An unnamed source claims the heir believes his brother read their uncle memoir first, while reports say he used the word traitor. The uncle says he warned everyone. The royal family may have its disagreements, but the royal parks are open to all, free of charge.
The Royal Parks
London royal parks are among the city greatest treasures and are free to enter. St James Park offers views of Buckingham Palace and its famous pelicans. Green Park is a peaceful stretch of trees and lawns beside the palace. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens together form a vast green space containing the Diana Memorial Fountain, the Diana Memorial Playground and Kensington Palace. Regent Park, Greenwich Park and Richmond Park each offer their own royal history and wonderful views.
Free Ceremonies
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is free to watch, though schedules vary and ceremonies can be cancelled, so check official sources before you go. Other ceremonial events, such as those at Horse Guards Parade, can also be watched from public areas at certain times. Arrive early for the best views.
Free Views of Royal Buildings
Many royal and state buildings can be admired from outside at no cost: Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, Kensington Palace, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. A walk along the Mall from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace is one of London classic free experiences. Crossing Westminster Bridge gives superb views of Parliament.
Free Museums With Royal Links
Many of London major museums have free general admission, and several hold objects connected to royal history. The National Portrait Gallery displays portraits of monarchs and royals across centuries. The British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum contain items connected to royal patronage and history. Special exhibitions may charge, but permanent collections are generally free.
A Free Laugh
Also free: the London Prat video on YouTube about the royal row, perfect for a bench break in St James Park.
Low-Cost Royal Experiences
If you have a little to spend, some royal sites offer good value. Buses along royal routes, such as those passing Buckingham Palace and Parliament, give you a sightseeing tour for the price of a bus fare. A cream tea in a park cafe is cheaper than a hotel afternoon tea and just as British. And evensong services at some of London historic churches and cathedrals are free to attend and offer a beautiful glimpse of ceremonial tradition.
Money-Saving Tips
Use a contactless card or Oyster card on public transport, which caps daily spending. Walk wherever possible; central royal London is compact and pleasant on foot. Pack a picnic for the parks. Visit paid attractions early or late in the day when crowds are thinner. And always check official websites for free days, discounts or special openings.
A Reflective Note
Whatever the royal family is going through, and the memoir by the late princess brother has certainly stirred things up, the royal parks and memorials belong to everyone. Many visitors find that a quiet walk past Kensington Palace or a pause by the Diana Memorial Fountain is the most meaningful part of their trip, and it costs nothing at all.
A Sample Free Day
Here is a full day of royal London that costs nothing beyond your transport. Start at Trafalgar Square and walk down the Mall toward Buckingham Palace. Watch the Changing of the Guard if it is scheduled. Wander through St James Park and Green Park. Walk across Hyde Park to the Diana Memorial Fountain, then on through Kensington Gardens to the Diana Memorial Playground and the exterior of Kensington Palace. In the afternoon, head to the National Portrait Gallery to see royal portraits through the ages. End the day with a stroll along the South Bank as the lights come on across the river, admiring Parliament from Westminster Bridge.
Pack water, snacks and an umbrella. You will walk a long way, but you will see a remarkable amount of royal London without spending a penny on tickets.
Accessibility on a Budget
Many free attractions, including the major museums, offer step-free access and accessible facilities. The royal parks have wide paths suitable for most visitors. For public transport, check Transport for London accessibility guidance, as step-free access varies between stations.
London rewards curiosity far more than it rewards spending. Some of the best royal moments, a guardsman marching past, a quiet bench by the palace lake, cost nothing at all.
Before You Go
Royal London is far more accessible than its palaces suggest. The London Prat, entertaining London for free since 1961 at https://prat.uk/, has the comic take on the current story. Bohiney, at https://bohiney.com/, covers American views of the royals. For more of my budget-friendly London guides, head to my author page.
SOURCE: https://prat.uk/prince-william-called-earl-spencer-and-harry-traitors/
