When it comes to a real etate portfolio, few families have it as good as the royal family in England. The lion’s share of the wealth stems from real estate… piles and piles of it. One part of their portfolio is the collection of outrageously awesome castles, palaces and manor homes. Granted, many are owned by the Crown and therefore cannot be sold by the royal family but it’s for them to use. This article sets out 22 of the most magnificent estates either currently owned by the royal family or was owned by the once upon a time. Each write-up provides a brief history of the property and its connection to the Crown. While some you no doubt have heard about there are some on this list that will be new to you and frankly, they are some real gems.
22. Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace, located in Edinburgh, Scotland, serves as the official residence of the British monarch when in Scotland. Its roots trace back to the early 16th century, making it a significant historical site. It was initially a royal abbey, later transformed into a palace by King James IV. Holyrood has been closely tied to the British royal family, particularly since the union of the English and Scottish crowns under James VI of Scotland (who became James I of England) in 1603. Over centuries, it has hosted many royal figures, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who resided there during pivotal moments of her reign. Today, Queen Elizabeth II and the current monarch, King Charles III, use Holyrood for official engagements and ceremonies, blending centuries of history with modern royal duties.
21. Kew Palace
Kew Palace, nestled within the expansive Kew Gardens in London, is a small but historically rich royal residence. Originally built in 1631 as a private home, it became closely tied to the British royal family in the 18th century, particularly during the reign of King George III. The King, who suffered from periods of mental illness, spent much time at Kew Palace as it provided a retreat for him and his family. The palace is most famously associated with Queen Charlotte, George III’s wife, who died there in 1818. Though smaller than other royal residences, Kew Palace played a pivotal role during a turbulent period in British history. Today, the palace is owned by Historic Royal Palaces, an independent charity that manages several former royal properties, and it is open to the public as part of Kew Gardens, allowing visitors a glimpse into the royal life of the Georgian era.
20. Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle, located in Berkshire, England, is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, with a history stretching over 1,000 years. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has served as a royal residence for 39 monarchs, evolving from a strategic military fortification into one of the British monarchy’s most iconic homes. It became a favored residence of Queen Elizabeth II, where she spent much of her later years. Windsor has been the backdrop for numerous significant royal events, including state banquets, weddings, and even funerals, like that of Prince Philip in 2021. Today, it remains an official residence of the reigning monarch, King Charles III, who uses it for state functions and private retreats. Windsor Castle is owned by the Crown, meaning it is held in trust for the monarchy, not as private property, but for the use of future sovereigns. It also serves as a popular tourist attraction, with sections open to the public, showcasing the castle’s grand history and architecture.
19. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, located in the heart of London, is the official residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch. Originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham, it was acquired by King George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. It became the official royal palace of the British monarch during Queen Victoria’s reign in 1837. Buckingham Palace plays a central role in the ceremonial and administrative functions of the monarchy, hosting state occasions, official events, and royal receptions. The iconic balcony is famously used for appearances during national celebrations, including royal weddings and jubilees. Today, Buckingham Palace is owned by the British Crown, not as personal property of the monarch, but as part of the Crown Estate, held in trust for future generations of the monarchy. King Charles III continues to use it for state functions, while some areas of the palace are open to the public during specific months of the year, allowing visitors to explore its opulent State Rooms and royal collections.
18. Balmoral
Balmoral Castle, located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a private residence of the British royal family, unlike many other royal properties which are part of the Crown Estate. It was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1852, and since then, it has remained a beloved royal retreat, passed down through generations. The castle and its vast estate have served as a sanctuary for the royal family, where they enjoy private time away from public duties. Queen Elizabeth II spent many summers at Balmoral, and it was her favorite residence; she also passed away there in 2022. Today, Balmoral Castle is owned personally by King Charles III, inherited from his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, upon her death. Unlike Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle, Balmoral is part of the royal family’s private property, not held by the Crown. The estate is used by the royal family for private vacations, but portions of it are also open to the public during certain times of the year, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands and view parts of the royal residence.
17. Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace, located in London, has been a significant royal residence since the late 17th century. Originally built as Nottingham House, it was purchased by King William III and Queen Mary II in 1689, who transformed it into a royal palace. Over the years, it has been home to numerous members of the British royal family, including Queen Victoria, who was born and raised there. Today, it remains an official residence for several members of the royal family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales (William and Catherine), the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and other royals. Kensington Palace is owned by the Crown Estate, meaning it is held in trust for the reigning monarch and future generations. Although it is a working royal residence, parts of the palace are open to the public, offering exhibitions on its rich history, including Queen Victoria’s childhood and the lives of other former royal inhabitants. The palace serves both as a private home for modern royals and as a historical site, preserving its long legacy within the British monarchy.
16. St. James’s Palace
St. James’s Palace, located in London, is one of the oldest royal palaces in the United Kingdom. Built by King Henry VIII in the 1530s, it was the principal residence of British monarchs for over 300 years, serving as the center of the royal court until the reign of Queen Victoria, when Buckingham Palace took over that role. St. James’s Palace remains a working royal palace today, hosting official events and serving as the London residence for several members of the royal family, including Princess Anne, the Princess Royal. It is also the formal location for the Accession Council, where the new monarch is formally proclaimed. The palace is owned by the British Crown, held in trust for future generations of the monarchy as part of the Crown Estate. Though not used as the primary royal residence, it retains great ceremonial importance, housing various offices of the monarchy and hosting state functions, receptions, and charity events. Unlike Buckingham Palace or Kensington Palace, St. James’s Palace is not open to the public, but it remains a key piece of Britain’s royal history.
15. Clarence House
Clarence House, located next to St. James’s Palace in London, has been a royal residence since it was built between 1825 and 1827 for the Duke of Clarence, who later became King William IV. Over the years, it has housed numerous members of the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, who lived there from 1953 until her death in 2002. Clarence House became the official residence of the then-Prince Charles (now King Charles III) and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, from 2003 until Charles ascended the throne in 2022. Today, it remains an important residence for the royal family, currently serving as the home of Prince William and his family when they are in London. The house is part of the Crown Estate, held in trust for the monarchy rather than as private property, and is used for both private royal family life and official duties. While it is a working royal residence, parts of Clarence House are open to the public for guided tours during the summer months, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and function of this elegant royal home. The house remains a key part of royal life, closely connected to significant events and public duties.
14. Sandringham Estate
Sandringham Estate, located in Norfolk, England, is one of the British royal family’s privately owned residences, passed down through generations since it was purchased by Queen Victoria in 1862 as a private country retreat for her son, the future King Edward VII. Unlike royal palaces such as Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle, Sandringham is privately owned by the monarch and not part of the Crown Estate. The estate spans 20,000 acres and includes farmland, woodland, and gardens, making it a quintessentially English rural escape. It is best known as the location where the royal family gathers for Christmas, and it was where Queen Elizabeth II delivered her annual Christmas broadcasts. Sandringham has also been the site of significant royal history, including the deaths of both King George V and King George VI. Today, Sandringham is owned by King Charles III, who inherited it upon Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022. The estate remains an important family residence for the royals, offering privacy away from the public eye. Portions of the house and its gardens are open to the public during certain months, providing insight into the royal family’s life at this cherished rural retreat.
13. Frogmore House
Frogmore House, located on the grounds of the Home Park at Windsor, is a historic royal residence that has been closely tied to the British royal family since the 18th century. Built in the 1680s, it was purchased by Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, in 1792 as a country retreat. The house became a favorite of Queen Charlotte and her daughters, and it has remained a peaceful sanctuary for the royal family ever since. Though no longer an occupied royal residence, Frogmore House is still used by the royal family for private events and receptions, and it has hosted significant occasions such as the wedding reception of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2018. Frogmore is also known for its picturesque gardens, which include the Royal Mausoleum where Queen Victoria and Prince Albert are buried, adding to its historical significance. Owned by the Crown Estate, Frogmore House is not a personal possession of the royal family but is held in trust for future monarchs. While it is not regularly open to the public, it opens on select days for charity events, offering visitors a rare glimpse into its regal interiors and stunning grounds.
12. Highgrove House
Highgrove House, located in Gloucestershire, England, is the private residence of King Charles III, purchased by him in 1980 when he was Prince of Wales. Highgrove has become synonymous with Charles’s passion for environmental sustainability and organic farming, as he transformed the estate’s gardens into an internationally renowned model of organic horticulture. The house itself, an 18th-century Georgian structure, serves as both a family home and a retreat for the monarch. Over the years, Highgrove has hosted important royal events and private gatherings, and it remains a cherished residence for King Charles. Unlike many royal properties, Highgrove is privately owned by Charles through the Duchy of Cornwall, meaning it is part of the estate traditionally held by the heir to the throne rather than being owned by the Crown. The estate’s extensive gardens, which reflect Charles’s deep environmental ethos, are open to the public on select days, with proceeds supporting charitable causes. Highgrove stands as a testament to King Charles’s lifelong commitment to sustainability, blending royal tradition with modern ecological practices.
11. Bagshot Park
Bagshot Park, located in Surrey, England, is a royal residence most famously associated with Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, and his wife, Sophie, Countess of Wessex. Built in the 17th century, the estate has a long history of royal occupation, but it became the official residence of Prince Edward in 1999 after being extensively refurbished for him and his family. The property is part of the Crown Estate, meaning it is not privately owned but held in trust for the monarchy. However, Prince Edward leases the estate on a long-term basis. Bagshot Park features a grand mansion surrounded by extensive grounds, providing a private and peaceful setting for the Wessex family while also being close to Windsor. The residence is used primarily as a family home, and unlike other royal properties, it is not open to the public. Bagshot Park allows the Earl and Countess of Wessex to carry out their royal duties while maintaining a relatively low-profile life compared to other senior royals. Its historical significance and royal connection make it an important, if less well-known, part of the royal family’s portfolio of residences.
10. Osborne House
Osborne House, located on the Isle of Wight, was the beloved summer retreat of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Purchased by the royal couple in 1845, Osborne was designed by Prince Albert himself in the style of an Italianate palace, reflecting his tastes and serving as a private family home for their large family. The house became a favorite residence for Queen Victoria, who spent many summers there, and it was where she passed away in 1901. Osborne House played a key role in the private life of the royal family, away from the formality of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, offering a more intimate setting for family gatherings. Following Queen Victoria’s death, Osborne was eventually gifted to the nation, and today it is managed by English Heritage. While it is no longer a royal residence, Osborne House is open to the public as a museum, allowing visitors to explore the opulent rooms, stunning gardens, and the private apartments where Queen Victoria lived. The estate is a symbol of the Victorian era and the personal lives of the royal family during Queen Victoria’s reign. Its historical significance and architectural beauty make Osborne House one of Britain’s most treasured royal properties.
9. Hillsborough Castle
Hillsborough Castle, located in Northern Ireland, is the official royal residence in the region and serves as the official home of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. Built in the 18th century, the castle became a royal residence in the 1920s and has since played a significant role in the monarchy’s relationship with Northern Ireland. Hillsborough Castle is a site of political and historical importance, having hosted many key figures and events during the peace process, including meetings with Irish and British leaders. Owned by the British Crown, Hillsborough Castle is managed by Historic Royal Palaces, which preserves the estate and opens it to the public. It remains a working royal palace, used by members of the royal family when they visit Northern Ireland, including for official engagements and state functions. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, which are also accessible to visitors, offering insight into both its historical significance and its role in modern royal and political life. Hillsborough Castle blends its royal heritage with its ongoing role as a center for diplomacy and statecraft in Northern Ireland.
8. Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace, located on the banks of the River Thames near London, is one of the most famous royal residences in England, with a history stretching back over 500 years. Originally built by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey in the early 16th century, the palace was later seized by King Henry VIII, who expanded it into a grand royal residence. Hampton Court became closely associated with Henry VIII, serving as the backdrop for many of his marriages, including his ill-fated union with Anne Boleyn. Over the centuries, various monarchs, including William III and Mary II, made further improvements, blending Tudor and Baroque architectural styles. Today, Hampton Court Palace is owned by the British Crown and managed by Historic Royal Palaces, an independent charity responsible for preserving the site. It is no longer an official royal residence but remains a significant historical and cultural landmark. Visitors can explore its grand state apartments, the Tudor kitchens, and its famous gardens, including the iconic maze. Though the palace is no longer inhabited by the royal family, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of past monarchs and stands as a symbol of England’s rich royal history.
7. Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon Castle, located in Gwynedd, Wales, is one of the most famous medieval fortresses in the United Kingdom, with deep historical ties to the British royal family. Built by King Edward I in the late 13th century as part of his conquest of Wales, the castle was designed not only as a military stronghold but also as a symbol of English dominance over the region. Its imposing walls and polygonal towers reflect Edward’s desire to project power and establish his control over Wales. Caernarfon Castle holds special significance in the history of the British monarchy as the site of the investiture of the Prince of Wales, a tradition revived in the 20th century with Prince Charles’s investiture in 1969. Owned by the Crown and managed by Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, Caernarfon Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction. Though no longer used as a royal residence, it remains an important ceremonial site and a powerful symbol of the historical relationship between Wales and the British monarchy. Visitors to the castle can explore its massive fortifications and learn about its role in both Welsh and English history, making it one of the most iconic landmarks in Wales.
6. Dumfries House
Dumfries House, located in Ayrshire, Scotland, is an 18th-century estate renowned for its exquisite architecture and exceptional collection of original Chippendale furniture. Built between 1754 and 1759 for William Dalrymple, the 5th Earl of Dumfries, the house was designed by prominent architects John and Robert Adam. What sets Dumfries House apart is its connection to King Charles III, who played a pivotal role in its preservation. In 2007, then-Prince Charles, through his charitable foundation, led a consortium to purchase the estate, saving it from being sold off and its valuable furniture auctioned. His intervention ensured that Dumfries House remained intact as a historic treasure. Today, Dumfries House is owned by The Prince’s Foundation, a charity established by King Charles III, and is used for both public tours and educational purposes. The estate has become a hub for community and educational initiatives focused on sustainable living, heritage crafts, and agriculture—areas close to King Charles’s heart. The house and its extensive gardens are open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and beautifully preserved interiors. Dumfries House stands as a symbol of King Charles’s dedication to heritage conservation and his broader efforts to promote environmental sustainability and education.
5. Dover Castle
Dover Castle, perched on the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, is one of the most iconic and strategically important fortresses in England, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Often called the “Key to England,” it has been a crucial defensive site since Roman times and was extensively developed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. King Henry II further expanded the castle in the 12th century, transforming it into an impressive medieval stronghold. Dover Castle has played a vital role in numerous historical events, from repelling medieval invasions to serving as a command center during World War II, where it became famous for its secret wartime tunnels used during the Dunkirk evacuation. Today, Dover Castle is owned by the British Crown and managed by English Heritage, a charity dedicated to preserving historic sites. Though no longer a royal residence, it remains one of the largest and most visited castles in England, offering visitors a chance to explore its medieval keep, secret wartime tunnels, and breathtaking views of the English Channel. Its historical significance, from medieval warfare to modern military history, makes Dover Castle a symbol of England’s defense and resilience.
4. Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle, located atop Castle Hill in Stirling, Scotland, is one of the most historically significant castles in the country, with a rich connection to Scottish royalty. Its origins date back to at least the 12th century, and over the centuries, it has been a key royal residence and military stronghold. The castle was a favored residence of the Stewart kings and queens, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who was crowned there as an infant in 1543. Stirling Castle played a pivotal role in the Wars of Scottish Independence, with notable battles like the Battle of Stirling Bridge fought nearby. Architecturally, it showcases a blend of medieval fortifications and Renaissance-style royal palaces, largely built by James IV and James V. Today, Stirling Castle is owned by the British Crown and managed by Historic Environment Scotland. Although no longer a royal residence, it is a major historical site and one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore its grand royal apartments, Great Hall, and Chapel Royal, all beautifully restored to reflect its royal heritage. The castle’s strategic position and rich royal history make it a symbol of Scotland’s turbulent past and enduring national pride.
3. Linlithgow Palace
Linlithgow Palace, located in West Lothian, Scotland, is a ruined but historically significant royal palace that was once a favorite residence of the Scottish monarchy. Built in the early 15th century by James I of Scotland, it was intended to be a grand retreat for the Scottish kings and queens, offering a more comfortable and luxurious alternative to the more fortified castles of the time. Linlithgow Palace is best known as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, who was born there in 1542. The palace was a key royal residence throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, with successive monarchs, including James IV and James V, expanding and enhancing its Renaissance-style architecture. Today, Linlithgow Palace is owned by the British Crown and managed by Historic Environment Scotland. Though it fell into ruin after a fire in 1746, it remains a popular tourist attraction due to its historical significance and picturesque setting overlooking Linlithgow Loch. Visitors can explore its grand courtyards, towers, and remnants of its royal apartments, gaining insight into the lives of Scotland’s medieval and Renaissance monarchs. Despite its ruined state, Linlithgow Palace remains a powerful symbol of Scotland’s royal heritage and architectural grandeur.
2. Beaulieu Palace
Beaulieu Palace, located in Hampshire, England, was once a grand royal residence, originally part of Beaulieu Abbey, which was founded by King John in the early 13th century. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, the estate passed into private hands and became the home of the Montagu family, who still own it today. Although no longer a royal palace, Beaulieu has deep historical ties to the British monarchy and nobility. The estate’s centerpiece is now the stately Beaulieu Palace House, a former gatehouse that was expanded into a family home in the 16th century. Today, Beaulieu Palace House is a popular visitor attraction, famous not only for its historical significance but also for the National Motor Museum located on the grounds. Owned by the Montagu family, the estate is open to the public, offering tours of the house, gardens, and museum. While Beaulieu no longer serves as a royal residence, its connections to English history and its beautifully preserved architecture make it a notable heritage site, blending royal history with its modern-day role as a cultural landmark.
1. Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle, located in Kent, England, has a rich history closely tied to the English monarchy, although it was not originally built as a royal residence. Dating back to the 12th century, it became a royal property in 1278 when it was acquired by Queen Eleanor of Castile, wife of King Edward I. Over the centuries, the castle was used by many English monarchs, including King Henry VIII, who significantly renovated it in the 16th century to serve as a residence for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. During Henry’s reign, Leeds Castle was an important royal palace, offering both comfort and security. Today, Leeds Castle is owned by the Leeds Castle Foundation, a charitable trust that manages the estate after it was left to the nation by its last private owner, Lady Olive Baillie, in 1974. The castle is open to the public and is renowned for its stunning gardens, historical exhibitions, and year-round events. While it is no longer a royal residence, Leeds Castle remains one of England’s most picturesque and historically significant castles, often referred to as “the loveliest castle in the world.”
