Typically, when crowds assemble outside Buckingham Palace, all attention is fixed on the iconic building itself: its sandy facade, the famous balcony, and the stoic guards. However, on this occasion, the focus shifted dramatically—everyone was looking directly at me. I stood there, slightly bewildered, as tourists turned away from the historic landmark and instead aimed their selfie sticks and cameras in my direction. A quick hair check seemed in order.
An Unforgettable Journey Fit for Royalty
This sudden spotlight wasn't due to any royal escort. It stemmed from my mode of transport: a gleaming black horse-drawn carriage, reminiscent of Kate Middleton's wedding day, which had carried me through Parliament Square, past Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, right up to the Palace gates. How did I find myself in such a situation? It all began at St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel, located just a five-minute walk—or a leisurely twenty-minute carriage ride—from Buckingham Palace.
Arranging a Regal Experience
The hotel concierge, with impeccable diligence, had organised my visit to the newly opened exhibition, Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, and arranged for my transportation in a manner befitting royalty. This year marks the centenary of Queen Elizabeth II's birth on 21 April 1926, and London is alive with celebrations honouring her legacy. Though we have lost a national emblem, her influence endures vividly.
My day started ordinarily with breakfast and coffee, but normality swiftly vanished. Outside the hotel, my ride awaited—a world apart from my usual Underground commute. "Your carriage awaits, m'lady," the chauffeur announced (or perhaps it was a more modest "Good morning, miss"—one can dream). My companions for the day were Jack and Jill, two whimsically named white horses from Layer Marney Horse Drawn Carriages, who truly stole the show.
Seeing London Through Royal Eyes
Clambering aboard, I felt a fleeting princess-like sensation, wishing I had donned a ball gown and pearls. We embarked from near St James' Park, traversing Victoria, Westminster, and Parliament Square in regal style. As a Londoner, I had never experienced the city this way. Strangers photographed me incessantly; I attempted a royal wave but ended up enthusiastically greeting every passerby, from bus drivers to tourists and children.
The novelty of this kingly experience never faded. Soon, I was deposited at the King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace for the exhibition. Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style showcases the wardrobe of Britain's longest-reigning monarch, featuring garments from pivotal historical moments, including her Coronation dress. Known for her meticulous coordination, the Queen used bold hues to stand out in crowds.
Exploring the Queen's Wardrobe
The display includes floor-to-ceiling coats and over fifty hats, from 1960s turbans to 1980s 'flying saucers'. I marvelled at everything from iconic gowns—like the coronation dress and jewel-embroidered pieces in shades from peachy orange to pale blue—to children's clothing, tweed suits, and impeccable British tailoring. Highlights included a tiny christening robe, a burgundy velvet ball gown inspired by vintage Dior, and matching hats and handbags, creating a walk-in wardrobe truly fit for a queen.
These items transcend mere fashion; they embody national pride and diplomacy, with beaded national flowers and official colours used for state visits, all reflecting an unmistakably British style. After the exhibition, while others resumed walking tours, I had a carriage waiting—my adventure continued.
A Culinary Tribute to Her Majesty
Returning to the hotel for lunch, I enjoyed The Queen's Centenary Table at TH@51, a globally inspired restaurant offering a bespoke menu honouring Her Majesty. Priced at £69 per person for three courses, it represents excellent value for central London. Available until 18 October, the menu features British seasonal ingredients.
We began with a Balmoral John Ross smoked salmon salad, nodding to the Queen's summer residence, followed by a pistachio-crusted Welsh lamb rack—British cuisine perfected in an unfussy setting. Dessert was a chocolate biscuit cake, a favourite of Queen Elizabeth's, served in small portions daily. Dessert every day? Her Majesty certainly had the right idea.
Living the Royal Fantasy
This experience fulfilled childhood princess fantasies, offered a taste of paparazzi attention outside Buckingham Palace, and provided deep insight into Queen Elizabeth II's elegant wardrobe, cementing her status as a fashion and historical icon. Best of all, it's bookable on request at St. James' Court hotel.
I concluded my day in the hotel suite with a handmade pastry shaped like an English rose, delivered by the thoughtful concierge. One could easily grow accustomed to such a royal lifestyle.
Travel Facts: St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel, London, offers rooms from £240 per night. Tickets for Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style are £22 per adult. The Queen's Centenary Table at TH@51 is £69 per person. Horse and carriage rides can be booked with exhibition tickets when staying at Taj, available with 48 hours' notice and priced on request based on passenger numbers.
