Nauticalia

Enjoy a visit to one of three spectacular historical sites: Windsor Castle, Kensington Palace or The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of these famous places and enjoy the magnificent collections and exhibitions within them, before enjoying a delicious afternoon tea at your leisure.

What happens on the day?
Choose from:

Windsor Castle: one of three official residences of The Queen and home to the Sovereign for over 900 years, Windsor is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the oldest in continuous occupation.  Marvel at the magnificent State Apartments (housing some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Gainsborough and Van Dyck), and visit St George’s Chapel, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England, and the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter (the senior order of British Chivalry, established in 1348 by Edward III), housing the tombs of ten British sovereigns.  Visit Queen Mary’s Dolls House (a miniature mansion built to perfection!) and the Drawings Gallery, and join a guided tour of the Castle Precincts (departing at regular intervals from the Admissions Centre).  You’ll then enjoy your afternoon tea at the Castle Hotel, just a short stroll from the Castle.

Kensington Palace: Kensington Palace encapsulates centuries of style.  First adapted for royal residence in 1689 by Sir Christopher Wren, the Palace has been host to the courts of William and Mary, Queen Anne, George I and II.  In more recent times it has been a much-loved home for Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales.  Your visit will include an audio tour of the sumptuously-decorated rooms and telling you the story of the etiquette of dressing for Court.  You’ll see the famous Royal Ceremonial Dress collection, and will have access to the beautiful State Apartments, including the Cupola Room (where Princess, later Queen Victoria was baptised) and the King’s Gallery, with its excellent collection of 17th century paintings.  You’ll also have a unique opportunity to see ‘The Last Debutantes’ exhibition, a journey into the glamorous world of the debutante, marking the 50th anniversary of the last court presentations.  Fashionable dresses and ball gowns, including stunning examples of couture by Christian Dior and Pierre Balmain, as well as accessories worn by some of the ‘debs’ during the final Season of 1958 will be displayed.  Following your tour you’ll enjoy afternoon tea in the 18th century Orangery in the Palace Grounds.

The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace: The Queen’s Gallery is a permanent space dedicated to changing exhibitions of items from the Royal Collection, the wide-ranging collection of art and treasures held in trust by the Queen for the Nation.  The seven galleries or rooms on the upper level of the Gallery house special exhibitions of paintings, prints, drawings and watercolours, furniture, porcelain, miniatures, enamels, jewellery and other works of art.  Exhibitions might include ‘Treasures from the Royal Collection’ (including world-famous paintings by Rembrandt, Canaletto and Winterhalter; spectacular jewels, dazzling works by Fabergé, and ceremonial pieces of furniture, sculpture, arms and armour and porcelain); ‘Art of Natural History in the Age of Discovery’ (collections selected from the Royal Library in collaboration with Sir David Attenborough); ‘Masters of Flemish Painting’ (the first ever exhibition of the finest Flemish paintings in the Royal Exhibition, including masterpieces by Hans Memling, Van Dyck and Teniers. Following your visit to The Queen’s Gallery, you will take short stroll to The Rubens Hotel, situated opposite the Royal Mews, where you will enjoy your afternoon tea.

Please note that all collections and exhibitions at these historical sites may be temporary and subject to change.
Your afternoon tea will vary slightly depending on which location you choose, but it will usually include a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly-baked scones and preserves, home-made cakes or pastries, and a selection of freshly-brewed teas and coffees. You're bound to be hungry after your visit, so sit back, relax, and enjoy!
Where?
The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace and The Rubens Hotel
Kensington Palace and The Orangery
Windsor Castle and the Castle Hotel

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear as there is walking involved at all three historical sites, and some areas are outside, so please dress according to the time of year and weather conditions.  Please note however that if you choose to visit Windsor Castle and the Castle Hotel, the dress code for the afternoon tea at the Castle Hotel is smart casual and jeans and shorts are not permitted. 

How long should I allow?
Allow approx 2 ½ -3 hours for your experience, (although there is no time limit to visit the historical sites, and you can enjoy afternoon tea at your leisure).

When?
All three historical sites are open daily throughout the year, although they may be closed during the Christmas/New Year period and on other occasional dates*. 
Admission times may vary. 
Please note that Windsor Castle in particular is still a working Royal Palace and opening arrangements may change at short notice.  Please check availability for your chosen historical site when making your booking.
We recommend you book at least four weeks in advance to ensure that dates are available before the expiry date listed on the voucher. This is only a guideline and we advise you book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. You must book and take your experience before the expiry date. All bookings are subject to availability.
Restrictions?
Minimum age is 16.
A reasonable level of fitness is desirable as some walking is involved at all three historical sites. These sites are historic buildings and disabled access varies, so please check when booking if this is a concern for you.  Wheelchairs may be available to borrow on a first come, first served basis but cannot be pre-booked. If you have any disability or illness that may prevent you from taking part in the experience you should discuss this with the centre before booking.  Please also advise the centre on booking of any dietary requirements.
Please note that due to security considerations, you may not take any form of liquid into Windsor Castle.
Please advise if you have any allergies when booking your afternoon tea.  

When you buy a Virgin Experience Day direct from our website, you, or your chosen recipient, will receive a gift pack and voucher with all the information needed to book the experience. A personalised message card will be included if you are giving it as a gift. Please tick the personalisation option above and complete details.

Sorry, our gift wrapping service is not available on this item.