The Magnificent St James’s Palace

A Royal Landmark Rich in History and Tradition

“A nation that forgets its past has no future” - Winston Churchill

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St. James's palace London - Shutterstock

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In today’s email: 

• The Magnificent St James’s Palace

• A Feast for the Senses

• Around The Web: A Blooming Spectacle; Tea Experiences;

  Visitors guide to Royal Palaces, Castles and Residences in the UK and more.

• From Social Media - Oxford Street is one of London’s busiest shopping areas

• Yum Recipes - How to make Proper Traditional Authentic English Muffins

• Extra - St James's Palace: London's OLDEST Royal Palace

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The Magnificent St James’s Palace

Just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace stands the historic St James’s Palace, a royal residence steeped in centuries of tradition. Originally established in the 12th century as a leper hospital for women, it was transformed into a palace by Henry VIII in the 1530s. The red-brick Tudor architecture still features original elements such as the Chapel Royal and the Proclamation Gallery, where both Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III were formally proclaimed monarch. Once the principal royal residence after the destruction of Whitehall Palace in 1698, it remained so until Queen Victoria moved to Buckingham Palace in 1837. The Chapel Royal hosted Queen Victoria’s wedding in 1840 and, more recently, Prince Louis’s christening in 2018. A fire caused by a servant’s candle in 1809 destroyed part of the palace, which was restored by 1813. The Palace also sustained damage during WWII bombings, though the iconic clock on the Great Gatehouse remarkably continued to strike

St. James's palace in Pall Mall street at sunset - Shutterstock

A Feast for the Senses

From the narrow alleys of the East End to the elegant arcades of the West, London’s markets are woven into the very fabric of the city. They’ve been places of trade, community, and creativity for centuries—long before supermarkets and online shopping took hold. Today, they remain among the best ways to experience the capital’s diversity, energy, and soul.

Each market tells its own story. Some, like Borough Market, have fed Londoners for over 1,000 years, offering everything from artisan cheeses to fresh oysters under Victorian railway arches. Others, like Columbia Road Flower Market, bloom once a week with buckets of colour and a chorus of traders calling out deals. Whether you’re strolling past antique stalls in Portobello, hunting street food in Brixton, or browsing handmade crafts in Greenwich, there’s a buzz that only a market can bring

Old Spitalfields Market in the Whitechapel district - Shutterstock

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Around The Web

A Blooming Spectacle

Held at the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea each May, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show showcases world-class garden design, innovative landscaping, and floral artistry. Expect stunning show gardens, celebrity guests, and cutting-edge green inspiration

Tea Experiences

Step inside London’s oldest tea shop to explore over 300 years of tea history, sample premium loose leaf blends, and enjoy unique masterclasses. A must-visit for tea lovers and those seeking a quintessentially British experience

Explore Hackney City

Meet friendly farm animals, discover how food is grown, and enjoy hands-on learning about nature and sustainability. Free to visit and perfect for families looking for an authentic countryside experience in the city

Tee Off at Bank

Located in the heart of Central London, enjoy tech-infused mini golf, delicious food, and expertly crafted drinks at No. 1 Poultry. Ideal for visitors after a lively outing – please use the street-level entrance as Bank Station Exit 9 is currently closed

Discover The Spaniards Inn

A historic 1585 pub near Hampstead, famed for its literary ties, ghostly legends, and charming garden. Enjoy a hearty Sunday roast, local ales, and elegant British fare. Perfect after a stroll on the heath or visit to Kenwood House

Visitors guide to Royal Palaces, Castles and Residences in the UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic royal palaces, castles and residences in the world. From the towering turrets of Windsor Castle to the elegant interiors of Buckingham Palace, these historic buildings offer a glimpse into the lives of Britain’s royal family.

Buckingham Palace - Love to Visit London

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From Social Media

Oxford Street is one of London’s busiest shopping areas

Yum

How to make Proper Traditional Authentic English Muffins

Extra 

St James's Palace: London's OLDEST Royal Palace

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