Information
Date: Saturday 20 May
Time: 11:30am - 1:30pm
Ticket application closing date: Monday 24 April
Location: Meet outside the West Door of Westminster Abbey
In this historical coronation year with ongoing controversy surrounding the monarchy following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, this is a bespoke walking tour like no other, led by historian and qualified Westminster tour guide Dr Helen Naylor.
This walking tour delves into royal lives, bringing history right up to date with our modern monarchy. Tales of royal palaces, parks, social gathering places and shopping spots are interwoven with stories of the priceless Crown Jewels. We start with Westminster Abbey and a dramatic one thousand years of royal weddings, funerals, burials and a one-time sacred sanctuary – and host to every coronation ceremony since 1066 when there was a riot!
Royal parks have witnessed royal trysts, deadly fireworks and a daring attempt to kidnap Princess Anne. Hear little-known scandal and dramas from within magnificent palaces; from the intruder who entered Queen Elizabeth II’s bedroom to significant “golden baptisms” and ultimately recent tantrums.
Royal favourites – The Ritz Hotel and Quaglinos – have seen royal birthday parties and informal “outings” with exits through kitchens! See the royal family jewellers and Fortnum and Mason where our late Queen chose highly personal gifts at “private shopping sessions”.
This is a 2 hour walk over 1.6 miles.
Suitable for mobile attendees only.
The cost of this outing is £17.
Surrey WI members only.
