As we all prepare for the coronation of our new King, now is a time of great excitement – dare we say it, of great patriotism. Penhaligon’s is exceedingly proud of our long relationship with the Royal family, as so as you can imagine, celebrations and preparations are beginning in earnest.

If you too are looking for a way to quell one’s coronation fever over the Easter break, then you may not have considered getting your fix straight from the source itself. In fact a number of palaces and royal residences in the country that can be visited, toured and explored.

Don’t forget to apply a spritz of something regal before you go. It is certain to help command some extra respect, and ours come with royal approval.

It’s possible you’ve had a sniff of our most recent perfume Highgrove Bouquet –  inspired by the home of Their Royal Highnesses King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla. We were privileged to make numerous visits there during its concoction, exploring the magnificent landscaped gardens that the residence is famed for, and marvelling their fragrant wonders. From the terrific topiary to the gnarly stumpery, you can read more in-depth about the tour here.

A stone’s throw from the Penhaligon’s headquarters, as it happens. Of course, you don’t really need us to tell you to visit Buckingham Palace – known to familiars as ‘Buck House’ - as it’s a London must-see, with the iconic Throne Room used as backdrops for royal family portraits and the incredibly, well, grand Grand Staircase. But you may not know that the land that the palace is built on was a swampy marsh inhabited by a mysterious woman called Margorie Gourdemaine in the 15th century. Margorie was accused of witchcraft against the king, and was burned at the stake on the very grounds. Evil cackles can still be heard today (well, maybe...)

HOW TO VISIT

Buckingham Palace is open Thursdays to Mondays during the summer months.

Balmoral is one of two royal estates privately owned by the family – rather than the State – and was first purchased for Queen Victoria as a gift from Prince Albert in 1852.  Known as Her Majesty The Queen’s ‘happy place’ throughout her life, it has acted as something of a summer retreat for the Royals, where they partake in picnics, shooting, horse riding, and all manner of country pursuits. Even a spot of barbecuing, as the legends go. Very little is known of the interiors, as they are closed off to the public.

First built by William the Conquerer in the 11th century, it has been home to royalty ever since – ten kings are buried here, including Henry VIII. It is in fact the oldest, and biggest, inhabited castle in the world and was the official residence of Her Majesty the Queen. Official ‘Blue Badge’ tourist guides will usher you the spectacular State apartments, St George’s Chapel and even some accessible Royal residences.

HOW TO VISIT

Windsor Castle is just an hour from central London and can be visited at any time of year, although is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

This Grade II-listed, 20-000 acre estate has been owned by the Royal family since 1862, and has been highly favoured through the generations – both The Queen’s father and grandfather died there. George V described it in one of his Christmas broadcasts as his ‘dear old Sandringham’, and his favourite place in the world. The grounds are home to a National Historic garden with two lakes, a rock garden, and bursts of glorious colour come springtime thanks to Edwardian era planting style.

Devotees of Blenheim Bouquet may know that this is one palace that we have a special relationship with. The home of the 4th Duke of Marlborough was so stunning that it prompted the King to renovate Buckingham Palace in 1786, and today it is UNESCO World Heritage site. Grounds boast one of Europe’s largest collection of oak trees, a hedge maze, butterfly house and numerous secret gardens to explore, while inside sumptuous state rooms and historic exhibitions await.

As the only palace not owned by the Royal family – just the land it is built on – the palace is hugely accessible from top to bottom all year round, with numerous tours available between 10am-4pm.