The Magic of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws millions of visitors each year.

The Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws millions of visitors each year.

A symbol of absolute monarchy and architectural grandeur, the Palace of Versailles remains one of France’s most iconic and visited landmarks.

From the breathtaking Hall of Mirrors, to the manicured gardens stretching across almost 2,000 acres, Versailles offers an unforgettable journey into the past.

What can you expect to discover on Paris Magical Tours Private Versailles Tours? Let’s take a closer look:

1. The Gardens of Versailles

The stunning Gardens of Versailles are a living work of art spanning 1,980 acres, with over 210,000 flowers planted every year.

These world-famous gardens are filled with intricate fountains, geometrically precise landscapes and elegant statues that reflect the might and majesty of King Louis XIV’s vision. Guests on Paris Magical Tours’ guided tours are able to discover hidden details most visitors miss, as well as be at the perfect spot to enjoy the musical fountain shows that take place at certain times of the year. Just breathtaking!

A soft breeze will surround you with the fragrance of blossoms.

The Gardens at Versailles – a royal marvel!

2. Step Inside the Château: The Castle where Kings and Queens Once Lived

After a serene guided walk through the gardens, it’s time to step into the Château de Versailles itself. This immense royal palace is home to some of the most iconic spaces in France:

  • The Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed
  • The Royal Chapel, a masterpiece of sacred art and architecture
  • The King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, the opulently decorated rooms where Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette once held court
Just one look and get ready to be transported back to 1682.

The Great Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles

3. Visit the Museum of the History of France

The Palace of Versailles Museum, officially part of the palace complex, is one of the largest and most significant history museums in France. Created by King Louis-Philippe in 1837, it is dedicated to “all the glories of France” and offers a deep dive into the nation’s royal, political and military past.

Home to over 6,000 paintings and 3,000 sculptures, it's one of Europe's largest fine art collections.

The Museum of the History of France – Home to over 6,000 paintings and 3,000 sculptures

From the grandeur of the gardens to the opulence of the royal apartments, Versailles is much more than a day trip — it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of French history.

If you’re looking for something extra space, the Versailles VIP Tours offer an unrivalled way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site in the most comfortable, informative and luxurious way possible. Pick up and return is included to your central Paris accommodation in a chauffeur driven vehicle, with your own Versailles Palace expert to take you on a journey of discovery through the Palace and its gardens.

For more details, visit http://www.parismagicaltours.com


The Magic of Windsor

Windsor is the perfect day trip out to the English countryside

Windsor is the perfect day trip out to the English countryside

Looking for a day trip from London?

Windsor offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the biggest metropolis in Western Europe – a quintessentially British experience filled with royal history, stunning countryside and timeless charm.

But what makes a visit to Windsor so special? Lets take a closer look:

 

1. Almost 1000 years of History at Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world — and one of the official residences of the British monarch. From the moment you approach the grand entrance, you’re transported into a world of kings, queens, and centuries-old traditions.

Whether you’re a history lover or a casual traveler, witnessing the grandeur of Windsor Castle in person is a bucket-list-worthy moment. For a truly special way of discovering the Castle, Private Windsor Tours offer a unique a personal journey with your own professional tour guide plus chauffeur.

 

Imagine walking in this magical pathway #ExperiencemagicwithLondonMagicalTours

The world famous St George’s Hall inside Windsor Castle. Share your photos with the hashtag #LondonMagicalTours

 

2. St George’s Chapel: Where Kings and Queens Rest

St George’s Chapel is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the UK. It’s the spiritual heart of Windsor Castle and the final resting place of many monarchs, including the late Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Phillip, as well as legendary monarchs like Charles I and Henry VIII. It also served as the romantic setting for Prince Harry and Meghan’s royal wedding back in 2018.

Whether you’re drawn by its architectural beauty or its historical significance, St George’s Chapel is a moving and memorable stop and well worth exploring on a private Windsor Castle tour.

 

A beautiful architecture full of history and amazing stories.

St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle

3. Windsor Great Park: Stunning Countryside and Serenity

Windsor is however much more than just the Castle. Alongside the charming historic town and the River Thames, a visit to Windsor cannot be complete without a drive through the Great Park, offering a moment of tranquility amidst your sightseeing.

Once the private hunting ground of royalty, this sprawling parkland now welcomes visitors with miles of walking trails, ancient oak trees, deer herds and sweeping views of the castle from The Long Walk — an iconic avenue leading directly to the castle gates.

 

Feel the fresh breeze of the air brought by the nature

Windsor Great Park, the former hunting ground of the British Monarchy

Visiting Windsor with London Magical Tours?

Share your magical moments with us by tagging @londonmagicaltours in your photos and using the hashtag #londonmagicaltours. Whether it’s royal landmarks, countryside strolls or hidden gems, show us how you’re making the most of the season—we can’t wait to welcome you.


A Traditional Royal Christmas

royal chritmas card

A Very Merry Christmas Card from the Royal Family

All families have their own Christmas traditions. Whether it’s baking gingerbread cookies, taking part in carol singing or simply getting together to watch your favourite holiday movies.

But have you ever wondered how the Royal family celebrate the lead up to Christmas?

Read on to hear some of the better known Royal family Christmas traditions. You can learn more about the secretive ones on London Magical Tours’ award winning London Christmas Lights Tours.

 

Present exchange

When do the Royal Family exchange gifts? Clue: It’s not Christmas Day!

One of the most famous Royal family traditions was introduced by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. In line with German tradition, the Royal family actually exchange their gifts on the 24th of December, Christmas Eve. The gifts are then laid out on tables for each family member to open after tea time (that’s after dinner for our non-UK cousins).

 

church

Christmas Day service – At Sandringham

The monarch traditionally spends Christmas at the residence known as Sandringham, a countryside estate in Norfolk. The invited Royal family members visiting that year are then given an allocated time to arrive at Sandringham: the youngest member arrives first and the eldest member last. Once everyone has arrived, the final touches are put on the Christmas tree, a tradition also made popular by Prince Albert.

 

king charles christmas speech

The Kings Christmas Speech. Credit BBC

Christmas Day begins with the Sandringham Christmas Day service, where the Royal family attend mass and step out of the St Mary Magdalene Church to greet the public.

To conclude Christmas Day, King Charles will continue the tradition of broadcasting a speech to the country and across the Commonwealth. As the speech is pre-recorded, the royal family will watch it together after their Christmas lunch. In previous years this has include prawns or lobster for starters, a turkey with all the trimmings as the main course – and Christmas pudding with brandy for dessert.

 

For more information on London Magical Tours’ luxury London tours,  as well as this year’s Christmas tours, visit the London Magical Tours website: https://www.londonmagicaltours.com

 


Charles I. Charles II. And now King Charles III

Children enjoying their visit to Windsor Castle - with King Charles III!

Children enjoying their visit to Windsor Castle – with King Charles III!

On Saturday the 6th of May 2023, the nation will be partying to congratulate our new King Charles, Philip, Arthur, George – also known as King Charles III for short.

As the third King to hold the name Charles, we thought it would be a good time to step back in time to remind us of those previous royals to have shared the same name.

Back in the 16th century, King Charles I was the only monarch to have been decapitated for his ideas of absolutism, following in the ancient belief that kings were chosen by God to reign over their people – the Divine Right.

King Charles II, son of Charles I, was invited to take the throne on the condition that he would rule alongside Parliament, following the end of Oliver Cromwell’s Commonwealth. He came back from France, where he had been in hiding and became known as the “Merry Monarch”.

After over three and half centuries, things are somewhat different today. Although he shares the same family line of those previous Kings, Charles III is the eldest son of our dear late Queen Elizabeth II, a much admired world leader, who was known for her intelligence and benevolent nature.

King Charles III has come a long way from his days as Prince of Wales. He is greatly admired for his environmental work, as well as his charitable endeavours, including the great success of the Prince’s Trust.

Here at London Magical Tours, we invite you to come visit the UK this summer to continue celebrating  – and to share with you the changes that continue to make England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland such special nations to visit.

Please click on the links below for more details on our private london tours and private Windsor tours to discover more about King Charles III and his family.

God save the King!

 

 

 


Platinum Jubilee – Her Majesty’s 70th Anniversary Celebrations

platinum-queen

 

Final preparations are now in full swing to celebrate this year’s very special milestone – Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Her Majesty Elizabeth II has become the first monarch to ever celebrate a Platinum Jubilee this year – an incredible 70 years of service to the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth.

There has been an overwhelming amount of interest in visiting London this year as a direct result and many of the events and celebrations taking place will culminate in a 4 day weekend at the start of June. Here are the confirmed highlights at the start of June period in what is sure to be a spectacular start to the Summer in London:

Thursday 2nd June

The Queen’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour)

Starting at Buckingham Palace, the parade will go by the Mall to Horse Guards Parade, where more than 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians will celebate The Queen’s official birthday. The Parade will finish with a spectacular fly-past of the Royal Air Force, watched by The Queen and Members of the Royal Family from the famous balcony at Buckingham Palace.

Friday 3rd June

Service of Thanksgiving

Her Majesty will attend a special service of thanksgiving to celebrate the 70 years of Her reign at St Paul’s Cathedral in central London.

Saturday 4th June

The Derby at Epsom Downs

Accompanied by members of the Royal Family, Her Majesty will attend the horse racing derby at Epsom Downs.

Platinum Party at the Palace

The BBC will host a special live concert from Buckingham Palace to celebrate Her Majesty’s special occasion. The spectacular show will bring together some of the world’s biggest musician and entertainment stars to celebrate each decade of Her Majesty’s 70 year reign.

Sunday 5th June

The Big Jubilee Lunch

The Big Lunch was an event started over a decade ago to encourage communities to come together to celebrate their connections and get to know each other more in a spirit of fun and friendship. In 2022 The Big Lunch will bring the Jubilee celebrations into the heart of every community.

At London Magical Tours we are very excited to celebrate this historic celebration with our guests from across the world. Discover the best that London has to offer with your own private London tours and celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in style.

 

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