Page 52 - DreamScapes Magazine | Spring/Summer 2022

Royal Family or simply fascinated by pomp and circumstance, London this year embodies a pivotal moment in Royal history.
CITY SPOTLIGHT
CUE THE PLATINUM JUBILEE IN London
Celebrating the 70th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, the Platinum Jubilee brings a supremely festive spirit to London in 2022. Revel in the royal treatment at grand hotels, award-winning restaurants, and landmark attractions that reflect Her Majesty’s historic reign and legacy.
PARADES, PARTIES & PAGEANTS
The regal fun peaks in the British capital from June 2–5. This bank holiday features the Queen’s Birthday Parade outside Buckingham Palace with some 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and a Royal Air Force fly-past. The Platinum Party at the Palace concert will stage legendary pop stars and opera singers, while the Platinum Jubilee Pageant will showcase acrobats, dancers and a River of Hope flags procession in a giant street festival.
DELVE INTO ROYAL HISTORY
From the Throne Room and Grand Staircase to the 16-hectare Buckingham Palace Garden, it’s well worth booking advance tickets to visit the Queen’s official London residence. You can discover the secrets behind the Changing of the Guard and Westminster Abbey on a guided Royal London tour with London Walks.
The Queen opened the interactive Churchill Museum at the Cabinet War Rooms in 2005. Exploring this underground network of rooms where the tenacious prime minister—a long- time friend of HRM’s—led Britain’s World War II struggle feels poignant and timely.
DINING FIT FOR A QUEEN
Steak Tartare and fillet of Dover sole delight diners at Bellamy’s, a swanky 2004-launched Mayfair institution where the Queen celebrated her 80th birthday. Trivet, near London Bridge, recently earned its first Michelin star with such dishes as wood-roasted squab pigeon and butter-poached turbot. Trivet sommelier Isa Bal won Michelin’s Sommelier Award 2022 with a cellar boasting 350-plus wines.
WHY GO NOW?
Whether you’re passionate about the
52 DREAMSCAPES SPRING/SUMMER 2022
BY LUCAS AYKROYD
ENJOY A DAY TRIP TO WINDSOR
The UK’s longest-reigning monarch resides primarily at Windsor Castle, a half-hour train ride from Paddington Station. At the castle, admire the embroidered white satin Coronation Dress that the Queen wore when crowned in 1953 (displayed from July 2–September 26). Refresh yourself on the 4-kilometre-long, tree-lined Long Walk to the Copper Horse statue depicting King George III on horseback.
SLEEP IN
IMPERIAL SPLENDOUR
The ultra-British, 1910-founded Goring Hotel—reportedly the site of the Queen’s annual Christmas lunch and Kate Middleton’s overnight stay before marrying Prince William—is the only hotel worldwide ever awarded the Royal Warrant. If you prioritize health and longevity, check into the brand-new, wellness-themed Inhabit Hotel in Bayswater. This 159-room boutique property includes a vegetarian-friendly restaurant, yoga studio and in-house library. DS
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TRAVEL PLANNER
Visit Britain visitbritain.com Visit London visitlondon.com
PHOTOS: VISITBRITAIN/ANDREW PICKETT | HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES | VISITBRITAIN/NICOLE HINES | VISITBRITAIN/BEN SELWAY