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Experience the Royal Magic In the Heart of London 

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Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of culture, or just in to enjoy a summer camp in London, this adventure will let you experience the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the ceremonial spectacle of the Changing of the Guard, and the vibrant charm of Covent Garden. Grab your comfy shoes and a camera, and let’s dive into these royal experiences!

Buckingham Palace: A Royal Residence

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Buckingham Palace isn’t just a palace; it’s a piece of living history and the administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Originally known as Buckingham House, the palace was built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703. In 1761, when King George III bought it as a private retreat for Queen Charlotte, it became a royal residence. Today, the palace boasts 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 52 guest and royal bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms.

During the summer months, the public can access these rooms, which serve as venues for official events and ceremonies. If you visit on a summer school program, you can tour the state rooms and see where the royals entertain guests for state, ceremonial, and official affairs. You can stroll through the Throne Room, a popular spot for royal wedding photos, and the dazzling ballroom, the largest room in the palace. The gardens of Buckingham Palace are also impressive with their elegant designs. Covering 39 acres, they feature a lake, a tennis court, and even a helicopter landing area.

Another fascinating aspect of Buckingham Palace is its art collection. The Royal Collection, one of the world’s largest and most important art collections, includes works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, and other famous artists.

Interesting Facts:

  • When visiting Buckingham Palace, look at the flag flying high above it.
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  • Buckingham Palace also features some secret rooms and passages! For instance, a hidden door in the White Drawing Room is disguised as a mirror and cabinet. The royal family can enter and exit the room without guests noticing. How’s that for a royal secret?

The Changing of the Guard: A Ceremonial Sight

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The guards at Buckingham Palace, known as the Queen’s Guard (or King’s Guard, depending on the reigning monarch), are an iconic symbol of British tradition. They belong to various regiments of the British Army, such as the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards, Scots Guards, Irish Guards, and Welsh Guards. One of the highlights of any visit to Buckingham Palace is witnessing the Changing of the Guard. This ceremony is a spectacular display of British grandeur and ceremony, featuring guards in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats. The red tunics were designed to hide bloodstains in battle, making it difficult for enemies to see wounded soldiers. The tall bearskin hats, about 18 inches high and weighing up to 1.5 pounds, were originally worn to make the soldiers look taller.

The ceremony symbolises the handing over of responsibility for protecting the palace from one guard to another. This event usually happens at 11:00 AM and lasts about 45 minutes. The music, co-ordination, and overall beauty of the ceremony are something you won’t want to miss. Remember, while it’s fine to take photos and enjoy the ceremony, always respect the guards and their duties. They’re not just a tourist attraction; they’re real soldiers with an important job to do!

Covent Garden: A Cultural Extravaganza

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After exploring the royal life, now let’s visit the lively area of Covent Garden! Known for its fantastic shops, restaurants, markets, and more, Covent Garden is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up London’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s like the city’s playground! Historically, Covent Garden was London’s first planned square, initially famous in the 17th century for its luxurious fruit and vegetable market. Today, the market buildings are home to a variety of boutiques, craft stalls, and antique shops. As you wander around, you might encounter street performers and musicians, adding a soundtrack to your exploration. From opera singers and classical violinists to acrobats and magicians, these talented artists bring the streets to life.

Your adventure through these iconic locations in London will leave you with memories of grandeur, tradition, and vibrant culture. London is a city that keeps giving, and its royal and cultural sites are just the beginning of what you can explore. So, join our summer camps in London, take lots of photos, enjoy every moment, and immerse yourself in the wonders of this fantastic city.

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