Royal Mews | London

The Royal Mews is one of the key components of the Buckingham Palace complex in London, serving as the royal family’s official stables and transport headquarters. It plays an essential role in maintaining the royal family's vehicles, horses, and carriages used for state occasions, ceremonial events, and official duties. The Royal Mews is a fascinating and historically significant part of the monarchy, providing insight into royal transport and the grand traditions associated with the British monarchy.

History and Origins

Early Origins: The Royal Mews' history dates back to the 16th century. Originally, the royal stables were located at Charing Cross in the Royal Mews near Whitehall, but the modern Royal Mews, located at Buckingham Palace, was established during the reign of King George III in the late 18th century. The term "mews" historically referred to the space used for housing hawks in the medieval period, and later, it became associated with the stables where royal horses were kept.

Relocation to Buckingham Palace: When Buckingham Palace became the official residence of the British monarch during the reign of Queen Victoria, the Royal Mews was relocated to its current location at the rear of the palace. This move was part of the broader development of the palace into the royal family’s main London residence. Since then, the Royal Mews has been maintained as a key part of the royal household.

Royal Transport: The Royal Mews has always been associated with royal transportation. The royal family’s horses, carriages, and state vehicles have been housed here for centuries, and the complex has been adapted over time to meet the changing needs of the monarchy.

What Can You See at the Royal Mews?

The Royal Mews is not only a working stable but also an important visitor attraction, offering tours of its historic buildings, royal vehicles, and stables. Some of the highlights include:

1. The Royal Carriages and State Coaches

State Coach: One of the most famous features of the Royal Mews is the Gold State Coach, which has been used for major state occasions, such as coronations and state visits, since 1762. The coach, which is richly gilded and ornately decorated, is an extraordinary example of craftsmanship and design. It has been used for every coronation since George IV and is still in use today, although it is not regularly driven due to its size and weight.

• The coach's interior is decorated with luxurious fabrics and materials, and it is drawn by eight horses. The coach is often seen in ceremonial events, particularly during royal processions.

Other Carriages: In addition to the Gold State Coach, the Royal Mews houses a collection of other state carriages used for various purposes. These include the Imperial State Coach, used for the State Opening of Parliament, and the Irish State Coach, which has been used during royal visits to Ireland. The collection of carriages showcases the grandeur and tradition of the British monarchy.

2. The Royal Horses

The Royal Stables: The Royal Mews is home to the royal horses, which are essential for ceremonial duties and royal events. The royal family maintains several Horses of the Household Cavalry, which are used in parades, state processions, and other ceremonial duties. These horses are also used for the Trooping the Colour ceremony, which marks the monarch’s birthday.

The Royal Stud: The horses are not just ceremonial; some are part of the royal stud, which has a long history of breeding and maintaining horses that are suitable for royal duties. These horses are cared for by the staff at the Royal Mews, and visitors can often view them in their stalls or see them being prepared for public events.

Horse Drawn Processions: The royal horses, particularly the Clydesdales, are used for pulling the grand carriages during special events, such as state visits, coronations, and royal weddings. These horses are well-trained and play an integral role in royal ceremonies.

3. The Royal Motor Vehicles

Modern Royal Transport: In addition to traditional carriages and horses, the Royal Mews also houses several modern motor vehicles that are used by the royal family. These include state cars such as the Bentley State Limousine, which was specially designed for the British monarchy, and other vehicles that are used for daily royal duties and public appearances. These cars are highly luxurious and reflect the prestige of the royal family.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom VI: One of the most famous modern vehicles in the Royal Mews is the Rolls-Royce Phantom VI, which is often used for ceremonial purposes and royal engagements. This car is specially designed to accommodate the needs of the royal family, with bulletproof windows and other security features.

4. The Royal Mews Building

Architectural Design: The Royal Mews is housed in a beautiful and functional architectural complex. The building itself has undergone several changes over the years, with expansions and renovations to accommodate the growing number of vehicles and horses. It was designed by architect John Nash in the early 19th century, and the building is a great example of Regency-era architecture.

• The mews building is an impressive structure, with grand stables, coach houses, and facilities for maintaining the royal fleet. The design includes large open spaces for horses and vehicles, as well as workshops for maintenance and repairs.

The Exhibition Area: The Royal Mews also contains an exhibition area where visitors can learn more about the history of royal transport, view rare items, and see displays that illustrate the key role the Mews plays in royal ceremonies. The exhibition often includes historical items such as uniforms, coaching paraphernalia, and information about past royal journeys and events.

Visiting the Royal Mews

Opening Hours: The Royal Mews is open to the public throughout the year, though the exact hours may vary. It is typically open during the summer months, as it is part of the Buckingham Palace State Rooms tour, which is available to tourists during the summer when the royal family is not in residence.

Guided Tours: Visitors can explore the Royal Mews on a guided tour or independently. The informative displays and knowledgeable staff provide a wealth of information about the history, significance, and workings of the Royal Mews. The tour often includes visits to the stables, carriages, and other transport used by the royal family.

Tickets: Entrance to the Royal Mews is typically included as part of the Royal Collection Trust admission, which gives access to other royal sites such as Buckingham Palace and the Queen’s Gallery. Tickets are available for individual or combined visits to these royal attractions.

Conclusion

The Royal Mews is an extraordinary blend of history, tradition, and practicality, serving as the operational heart of the British royal family’s transportation needs. It is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about royal life, the monarchy’s ceremonial duties, and the rich history of royal transport. From the majestic Gold State Coach to the modern royal cars and the horses that have been a staple of royal parades, the Royal Mews offers a fascinating glimpse into the pomp and pageantry of the British monarchy. Whether you're interested in history, royal ceremonies, or simply want to see the elegance of the royal carriages and horses, the Royal Mews is an unforgettable part of London's royal heritage.