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etting a glimpse into how Britain’s Royal Family live (and let’s face it, we’re all secretly curious) is not as difficult as you might think.

Every summer, the Queen opens her very large front door at Buckingham Palace to a limited number of visitors. While you won’t get to see all her 775 rooms, you will visit the areas used for ceremonial occasions (yes, this includes the throne) and the garden with its famous lake – as well as the Rembrandts, Canalettos and Rubens she’s got scattered about the place.

Meanwhile, if you fancy a peek at the Queen’s other treasures, then head to the Tower of London . It’s here that Ma’m keeps the Crown Jewels, including the Imperial State Crown, with its 2,868 diamonds. Of course, the Tower is not all just gems and luxury; it was here that Anne Boleyn was executed (you can stand on the exact spot), where Lady Jane Grey was imprisoned and where Henry VIII’s armour is now kept.

Of course, London doesn’t hold the monopoly on royal attractions; Osborne House on the Isle of Wight was a holiday retreat for Queen Victoria and her nine children for many years, and makes a suitably English day out. The house itself has an Italianate style but you’ll find plenty of English touches in the garden – like pretty terraces, scattered cottages and rather epic views over the Solent. Best keep the camera handy…