From October to March, visitors can see King George IV's private apartments, and during August and September, the East Terrace is open. Highlights include a visit to St. George's Chapel - where the tombs of 10 sovereigns are located, including Henry VIII - and Queen Mary's Dolls' House.
A typical visit lasts two to three hours.
More information: royalcollection.org.uk.
London
Buckingham Palace has been the primary residence of the British monarch since the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837. The state rooms, used for official and state entertaining, are open to the public each August and September. The forecourt is used for the changing of the guard, which takes place every other day in winter months and daily during the summer.
The Tower of London, whose construction began in the 11th century, has been used as a fortress, royal palace, and prison. Since 1303, it has been the home of the crown jewels of the United Kingdom - which have been on public display since 1669. The tower is open to the public daily.
Kensington Palace, in Kensington Gardens, has been a residence of the royal family since the 17th century. Once the official home of Princess Diana, the palace was the boyhood home of William and Harry, who went to local nursery and pre-preparatory schools in nearby Notting Hill. Today, state rooms with displays are open to the public daily.
More information: visitlondon.com.
Norfolk
Sandringham House has been the private home and country retreat for royals since 1862. The queen and other members of the family regularly spend Christmas at Sandringham and make it their official base until February each year.
The museum, house, and gardens are open to the public daily April 23 to Oct. 30 this year. The museum contains royal vehicles, ceramics, photographs, and memorabilia. It is recommended that visitors allow three to four hours to see everything.
More information: sandringhamestate.co.uk.
Scotland
Edinburgh
Founded as a monastery in 1128, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, also known as Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Situated at the opposite end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle, the residence is used for state ceremonies and entertaining. The palace was the principal residence for the kings and queens of Scotland - including Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived there between 1561 and 1567 - and is often associated with Scotland's turbulent past.
The palace is open year-round. The Queen's Gallery has an exhibition of works from the Royal Collection.
More information: royalcollection.org.uk.
Ballater
Purchased by Queen Victoria in 1848, Balmoral Estate has been the monarch's Scottish home ever since. Unlike Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, which are owned by Britain, Balmoral Estate is part of the monarch's personal property and is privately managed on the queen's behalf.
The estate grounds, gardens, and the Castle Ballroom are open to visitors from April through July. Winter guided tours are available during late October, November, and early December.
The royal family is in residence during August, September, and early October, during the Summer Opening at Buckingham Palace.
More information: balmoralcastle.com.
