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Beauchamp Tower London

Beauchamp Tower London is one of the many hidden gems beyond the walls of the fortress of Tower of London. The Tower of London is an iconic landmark and significant in English history, which famously carried the tag ‘a fortress, a palace and a prison’ The Tower occupies an area of 18 acres along the Thames River in London and attracts almost 2.86 million visitors each year. The Beauchamp Tower played a key role in the history of the Tower of London as residence to high-ranking prisoners. This article takes you on a brief journey of its historical significance and the beautiful graffiti at Beauchamp Tower London which were left by these prisoners that you may find in this historical gem if you were to visit Beauchamp today.

Beauchamp Tower is easily missed as visitors seem focused on the White Tower and the Jewel Tower. Moreover, if you are limited to time, you may give Beauchamp a miss but I suggest that Beauchamp is worth a visit and deserving of a place on your list.

I discovered Beauchamp Tower on my visit as I retraced my footsteps in London. I have been to Tower of London many times before but had never visited this tower. I learnt so much of historic England from my visit here which I share with you here.

Read about the Tower of London – the Best Guide before your next visit.

Beauchamp Tower London

_{Beauchamp Tower sits next to the dark timbered Queen’s House overlooking the Tower Chapel and the Tower Green | © mytimelessfootsteps | Image by Georgina_Daniel}

Beauchamp, pronounced as “beecham” is one of the twenty-one towers at the Tower of London and forms part of the inner defensive wall of Tower of London. It was built between 1275 and 1281 towards the end of the first leg of modernisation of the Tower, under the reign of King Edward I.

Built mostly of brick, but with stone externally, the tower takes its name from its first prisoner, Thomas Beauchamp, 12th Earl of Warwick. Thomas Beauchamp was imprisoned here in 1397 by Richard II.

The tower’s close proximity to the Lieutenant’s lodgings (now, the Queen’s House) made Beauchamp Tower a significant and a perfect place throughout history to accommodate high-ranking important prisoners.

There are other towers within the walls of the Tower of London which also became home to very important high status prisoners. Read about the prisoners of the Bloody Tower at the Tower of London here and the Jewel Tower, home to the Magnificent Crown Jewels.

Prisoners of the Beauchamp Tower London

Amongst the important prisoners at Beauchamp were John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland and his four sons. One of the sons was Guildford Dudley, the husband to Lady Jane Grey. Here’s a brief look at the Dudleys and Lady Jane Grey.

About the Dudleys

John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland was imprisoned at the Beauchamp Tower along with his four sons because he wanted his daughter-in-law, Lady Jane Grey to be Queen of England.

John Dudley and his sons were condemned as traitors in 1553. He was executed for treason at Tower Hill on August 22, 1553. Guilford Dudley, husband to Lady Jane was executed in February 1554. Following his execution, the three brothers were pardoned and released.

About Lady Jane Grey

Lady Jane Grey - on her Coronation — _{Lady Jane Grey on the day of her procession to be Queen of England. Lady Jane Grey (1536-54) after a painting by Herbert Norris, © Lebrecht Music & Arts/Alamy Stock Photo
Archives: Historic Royal Palaces}

Lady Jane Grey was born in 1837 in Leicester, England. She was the great-grand-daughter of King Henry VII. Her life began with great promise and high expectations but ended tragically, due in part to the political and religious upheavel that existed during this time.

Lady Jane inherited the throne from Edward VI and was Queen of England for just nine days. She was deposed by Catholic Mary I, on July 19, 1553 and was imprisoned in the Queen’s House.

On the morning of 12 February, 1554, from her window, Lady Jane watched her young husband, Guildford Dudley, leave Beauchamp Tower for his execution at Tower Hill, and his headless body return for burial at the Tower Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula.

Later, on the very same day, Lady Jane was executed at Tower Green. She was seventeen years old.

About Guildford Dudley

Guildford Dudley, born in 1535 was an English nobleman who married Lady Jane Grey in an elaborate celebration about six weeks before the death of King Edward VI. Guildford and Jane spent their brief rule together at the Tower of London until they were condemned to death for high treason, thereafter in separate quarters.

On the morning of their execution, Guildford requested to see Lady Jane one last time. Jane refused, saying:

“would only … increase their misery and pain, it was better to put it off … as they would meet shortly elsewhere, and live bound by indissoluble ties.”

Guildford Dudley was executed at Tower Hill on the morning of February 12, 1554.

The Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London is next to the right of the Queen's House. The Dudley's were imprisoned here — _{The Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London is next to the right of the Queen’s House. The Dudley’s were imprisoned here. © mytimelessfootsteps | Image by Georgina_Daniel}

Other prisoners at Beauchamp Tower London

Other notable prisoner at Beauchamp Tower was Lady Jane Rochford, lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of King Henry VIII. Lady Rochford’s confession was instrumental in the tragic death of Catherine Howard. Her interrogation drove her insane and she was executed on the same day as Queen Catherine on February 13, 1542.

As the tower was used throughout English history as a prison, there were other prisoners as well such as William Tyrrel and Thomas Peverel. Most recently, it accommodated several German spies during the World Wars.

You may wish to know more about the German spies and you can access information here. The last person to be executed at the Tower was Josef Jakobs, also a German spy at the end of WWII.

Graffiti in the Beauchamp Tower

What makes Beauchamp Tower London famous these days is the discovery of graffiti beneath the many layers of history on its walls. These graffiti on the wall were left by prisoners.

The inscriptions were made during the 16th and 17th century when the religious and political turmoil was at a height and the prison was home to many high-ranking and important prisoners such as the Dudleys, William Tyrrel and Thomas Peverel. Some of these inscriptions are bold reflecting painstaking carving while others are thin and somewhat spidery. They are a few that seem to cluster in specific locations of the Tower.

Inscription of William Tyrrel in 1541 in Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London — *William Tyrrel (1541) In Italian “Since fate has chosen that my hope should go with the wind I now want to cry for the time that is lost and I will be sad and unhappy forever”*

Graffiti left by prisoners in the Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London — *Cluster of Graffiti: 29 – Thomas Myagh: Tortured because of his association with Irish rebels. 29a – Unknown 31 – Thomas Peverel (1571)*

Graffiti in Beauchamp Tower — *62 – Attributed to Thomas Peverel*

All images © timelesstravelsteps | by Georgina_Daniel

_{Graffiti on the walls of Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London | © mytimelessfootsteps | Image by Georgina_Daniel}

These sombre inscriptions represents thoughts of the prisoners and a powerful need to leave some form of record of their existence. A record, so they are not lost forever. It is an assertion of their beliefs and identity but above all, a strong will of defiance not to be cowed by political and religious tyranny. Some prisoners were held in gloomy cells, while others could move freely within the Tower grounds. Their treatment and fate depended on their social status and their crime.

*Lady Jane Grey was given access to the garden in December 1553.

Timeless Travel Steps says: When I visited, there were a number of people here so I could not take a closer look at the graffiti. I am intrigued by these inscriptions and am motivated to discover more on this part of history at the Tower of London.

There is a permanent exhibition at the Beauchamp Tower. — _{There is a permanent exhibition at the Beauchamp Tower | © mytimelessfootsteps | Image by Georgina_Daniel}

Spiral stairs leading to the permanent exhibition of the prison in Beauchamp Tower. — _{Lots of stairs! Spiral stairs leading to the permanent exhibition of the prison in Beauchamp Tower | © timelesstravelsteps | Image by Georgina_Daniel}

One thing to bear in mind when visiting here is the narrow entrance and the narrow spiral stairway – there is only one of these, so visitors going up as well as those exiting the exhibition use it. If you are at the bottom of the stairs, waiting for the moment to get up – don’t! Don’t wait because you shall be waiting for a long time (like I did!) and others behind you will get ahead of you regardless of your politeness!

Entry to the permanent exhibition in the Beauchamp Tower is included in the entry ticket to the Tower of London. It is reasonably priced at £25.00 and is valid for one day – take a look here.

Learn more about Beauchamp Tower from this book: In Inscriptions and Devices, in the Beauchamp Tower, Tower of London

UK Readers

Published by the British Library, the book contains a short historical sketch of the building, and the prisoners formerly confined therein: collected from State papers, records, and other authentic sources: by W. R. Dick.

I sincerely hope that you have enjoyed reading this article and have found it valuable towards planning your visit to Beauchamp Tower. Do share your thoughts in comments below.

The Tower of London is vast and offers a thousand years of history within its walls. If you are in a rush, you may not experience all of what Tower of London has to offer. It is highly recommended that you spend at least four to five hours (subject to the time of day and the season you choose to visit) when you visit. Have a break in between and enjoy the hospitality at the cafe.

Learn more about the Tower of London by taking these virtual tours > Inside the Tower of London by the Tower of London | Historic Royal Palaces.

You may also enjoy reading other articles on London and here are a few that you may like:

What makes St Paul’s Cathedral special

What is next to St Paul’s Cathedral from medieval times

All about Kensington Palace

Queen Victoria | An intimate look at her childhood and the Woman behind the Crown.

London Eye | 18 important facts you would love to know about this landmark in London

Discover London with Georgina

London MyCityMyTown Series

You can access all my stories on the blog here

Plan a trip to London – here are some ideas for you

Travel resources at a Glance

Planning your dream vacation? Excellent! Here are all the Resources and Practical information you need for your self-guided or guided vacation.

Flights – I have a few choices. Search Google flights because they offer very competitive prices. You could also try Opodo for cheap airfares or Etihad Airways for long haul flights. For special experiences, go to On the Beach and Jet2Holidays.

Accommodations – My favourite website for booking hotels is booking.com – I love their flexible cancellation policy which means I’m covered till the last minute. I also like that the totals show up for the whole stay so it helps me budget better. Other favourites of mine are Millennium & Copthorne Group of Hotels and Resorts for their consistent high quality accommodations and service. You could also take a look at the Radisson Hotels chain that caters for all budget.

Unique experiences & tours – My all time go to resource for unique experiences and tours is Get your Guide. I am also a fan of Viator for their special deals.

Travel insurance – Never travel without travel insurance and never overpay for travel insurance! I use and recommend World Nomads for your travel insurance needs. They even insure on the go. Before purchasing any any travel policy, read through the terms to ensure that the plan is right for you and your trip.

Travel essentials – Never travel without these! I use and fully endorse all the products on this page but especially: High powered wireless power bank, Universal travel adapter and unlimited portable pocket wifi.

map with pin on london | ultimate guide to Tower of London — _{Tower of London | 51.5081° N, 0.0759° W}

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Windsor Castle and Windsor in 1 day-what to see, do and experience in 1 day

Windsor Castle and Windsor in 1 day-what to see, do and experience

A trip to the UK or London is never complete without a trip to Windsor, the home of the historic Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle has been home to the British Royal family for over a thousand years and is one of the most visited attraction in UK. Windsor Castle and Frogmore House attracted 1.65 million paid visitors in 2018-2019, making it the most popular of the Royal Estates.

To make the best of Windsor Castle and Windsor in 1 day will require some prior planning. You may also need to have some knowledge of the highlights at the Castle which should not be missed especially if your visit here is just for the one time.

In this article, you shall find some of the highlights of this iconic and historic castle and the town of Windsor. Practical information is included to support your planning.

Town of Windsor

^{The Town Square at Windsor | Image: georgina_daniel}

Windsor is a historic market town in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire, Southeast England.

It has a lively atmosphere with great shopping and restaurants. It sits on River Thames, just west of London, and is under an hour’s journey from London. You will find Windsor at:

51°29’1.19″ N 0°36’9.59″ E

1 – day at Windsor Castle and Windsor

The day began with a train journey from London, Waterloo Station to Windsor & Eton Riverside. Exiting Windsor & Eton Riverside, it is a rather pleasant short walk up a slight hill. The street is lined with shops and the castle in sight. The Town Square to your right. A walk-up a further slight hill on your left will lead you to the ticket office. If you are here during the peak season, you will see a queue from the high-street.

Read article on Trainline in Britain

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, built by William the Conqueror in the 11^th century, is the residence of the British Royal family for over 1000 years and is said to be the Queen’s favourite weekend getaway residence. In fact, if you see the Royal Standard flag flying from the Castle’s Round Tower, it indicates that the Queen is in residence.

Throughout history, Windsor Castle has been the home to thirty-nine monarchs and is the largest and the oldest occupied castle in the world. It has recently hosted the Royal wedding of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle on 19^th May 2018. With so much history just on one site, Windsor makes a perfect destination for a special weekend break or a day trip.

Can easily opt for a horse & carriage ride around Windsor.

Windsor Castle grounds

Windsor Castle is the largest and the oldest occupied castle in the world. The Castle floor area is 13 acres (5 hectares) and has 1000 rooms. It comprises of two-quadrilateral-shaped building courts that are separated by the Round Tower. The two building courts are called Lower Ward and Upper Ward

Round Tower, Windsor Castle

The Round Tower, as the name suggests, is a circular tower, massive and is built on an artificial mound. The court in the west of the Round Tower is called the “Lower Ward” and the court to the east is the “Upper Ward.”

The Round Tower, Windsor Castle built on artificial mound. — ^{The Round Tower, Windsor Castle built on artificial mound | Image: georgina_daniel}

Lower Ward Windsor Castle

Includes St George’s Chapel and the Albert Memorial Chapel, more on these below.

View from the Lower Ward-St George's Chapel on the left and the Round Tower on the right. — ^{View from the Lower Ward-St George’s Chapel on the left and the Round Tower on the right.}

Upper Ward, Windsor Castle

Includes the private apartments of the Queen and the private apartments for visitors. It also houses the Royal Library which contains collections by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and other famous artists.

The Inner Courtyard of the Upper Ward is home to private apartments in Windsor Castle. — ^{The Inner Courtyard of the Upper Ward is home to private apartments in Windsor Castle | Image: georgina_daniel}

The Northeast corner of the Upper Ward was destroyed by fire in November 1992 which included over 100 rooms and St George’s Hall. This area has been successfully restored and was completed in 1997.

Highlights at Windsor Castle Berkshire

When exploring Windsor Castle, it would be best to begin with the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Afterwards, you can explore the castle grounds by commencing your tour of the interior of the Castle. I would suggest that you start with the State Apartments, at Henry VIII’s North Terrace. You may encounter a queue here, but they get through very quickly. After the State Apartments, you can visit the beautiful St George’s Chapel and other parts of the Castle.

1 | Changing of the Guards Ceremony

The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is one of the highlights of visiting Windsor Castle. The ceremony takes place at 11:00 in the Lower Ward within the Castle grounds. The times can change and there may be occasions when the Ceremony may take place without music because of other duties and demands on the guards. The guards return to their barracks at 11:25.

This is one highlight when visiting Windsor Castle that you should not miss. It is less crowded than the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, so it allows you a better view of the ceremony itself.

As it takes place at 11:00 prompt, it is best to plan your visit to arrive here before it begins so you get a good view.

2 | State Apartments and Semi-state Apartments

This part of the Castle is a grand building with opulent furnishings and intricate ceiling paintings. There are many art-work on the Royals and is home to the infamous Queen Mary’s Doll House.

** Queen Mary’s Doll House is sometimes closed to public viewing. Best to check before your visit.

3 | St George’s Chapel

The side entrance to St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. — ^{The side entrance to St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.}

My favourite part of the Castle! Being here, in St George’s Chapel which is rich in history and in royal tradition is, at moments, simply overwhelming. It is unique in that it has a Perpendicular Gothic-style architecture. Construction of the Chapel began in 1475 by Edward IV and was completed by Heny VIII in 1528.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married in this Chapel in May 2018, which makes this Chapel even more special.

The architecture inside St George's Chapel_Windsor Castle_Berkshire — ^{The architecture inside St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel}

The interior of the Chapel itself is not huge but the architecture is absolutely breath-taking! You need to see to experience it. Cameras are not allowed in the Chapel but I quite simply had to steal a moment to capture this jaw-dropping wow sight for keeps.

4 | The Inner Courtyard

The Inner Courtyard is home to the private apartments of the Queen and the private apartments of the Queen’s visitors. It is of Gothic architecture quadrangle with a green grass square in the middle.

The Inner Courtyard of the Upper Ward_Private Apartments of Windsor Castle, Berkshire (2) — ^{The Inner Courtyard, Upper Ward_Private Apartments of Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel}

**Lunch

I spent quite a lot of time walking around the grounds at leisure and then lunch at the nearby pub. Afterwards, a walk up to the parks and down to Albert Road to view the Long Walk.

5 | Home Park, Windsor

To the Eastern side of Windsor Castle is Home Park which was previously known as Little Park. It is approximately 655 acres (265 hectares) of parkland privately owned by the Crown Estate.

Frogmore House is in this Park and is only open twice a year, May and August. If you want to visit Frogmore House and its grounds, schedule your visit during these two months in the year.

6 | Great Park, Windsor

Great Park is situated towards the South of Windsor Castle. It is approximately 5000 acres (2,020 hectares) which includes a deer park. Parts of this Park is open to the public.

7 | The Long Walk

The Main Entrance to Windsor Castle, view from the Cambridge Gate, Windsor Castle, Berkshire. — ^{The Main Entrance to Windsor Castle, view from the Cambridge Gate, Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel}

A short walk from the Castle, the Long Walk is crossed by A308 (Albert Road) to Old Windsor. This is what I wanted to see and capture the essence of the moment – The Long Walk!

The Long Walk is the straight path that links Windsor Castle with Snow Hill in Windsor Great Park, the foot of the statue of King George III (The Copper Horse). It is approximately 3 miles (5 kilometres) in length.

According to legend, King Henry VIII sat and waited at Snow Hill for news of execution of his second wife, Anne Boleyn.

^{The Long Walk, view from Cambridge Gate, Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel}

However, the path and the landscape as we know it today only came much later, an improvement to what was by King Charles II and Queen Anne. King Charles II had 1,652 Elm trees planted in double-rows the entire length of the route and Queen Anne had a road constructed down the centre of the tree lined landscape, so the coaches could head into the park comfortably.

Winding-down the day

There is a quintessentially English pub at the quiet corner here by Park Street gates (which leads to the Long Walk and Cambridge Gate, entrance to Windsor Castle), a peaceful cul-de-sac where you can stop for a hearty pint! It’s called the Two Brewers, one of the smallest pubs in Windsor. Established in 1792 although the building dates back to 1709.

On a final note…

Windsor Castle is uniquely beautiful, set in a lively town, with accommodation to suit every individual, couples or family, It has great shopping choices and restaurants to fulfil every palate a destination that will surely not disappoint.

Practical information

At Windsor Castle – What you need to know

There are guide maps available free at the counter. Just pick one. Given the vast area where one needs to walk, I found the map to be extremely helpful.
If you gift-aid your entrance ticket, you get a 12-month pass to return. Just ensure that you write your name and address and get it stamped at the designated area near the exit.
Commentary on the audio, for the most part is good and informative but sometimes too elaborate. It is also sometimes hard to navigate to the number of the room.
Give yourselves between 3 to 3.5 hours although the recommended hours are 2.5 to 3.

Facilities:

Audio guides are available in all major languages.
Induction loop on Audio tour is provided to hearing impaired visitors.

Guide dogs are permitted

Toilets for disabled visitors
Areas are wheelchair accessible.

Tickets:

Regular (£) During closure of State Apartments (£)

Adult 21.20 11.70

Family [2 adults + 3 under 17s] 54.70 30.60

Senior/Student 19.30 10.60

Under 17/Disabled 12.30 7.20

For up-to-date information on Windsor Castle, you can look-up their official website here: https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle

Getting to Windsor

From London by train:

Getting to Windsor Castle from London by train is the most convenient and cheaper mode of transport.

There are 2 services:

London Paddington to Windsor Central – services are provided by Great Western Railway, need to change at Slough for the shuttle service to Windsor & Eton Central. The shuttle service runs every 20 minutes and will have extra charges.

Return Adult Fare is £10.20

2. London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside – services provided by South Western Railway are 4 services per hour, at 20, 28, 50 and 58 minutes past the hour. Return Adult Fare is £10.50

Buy Train tickets from Trainline

If you are driving:

Parking:

Castle car-park is a ‘Pay & Display’ car-park, so you will need coins. £14 for 5 hours;
Car-park next to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station – £4 All-day if you arrive after 10:00. You can pay by phone

Is this post valuable to you in planning your visit to Windsor Castle and Windsor? If so, let me know in comments below or via Contact Form, I would love to hear from you.

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A simple guide listing highlights on what to see, do & experience in Windsor Castle and the quintessential city of Windsor in 1 day | Windsor Berkshire | What to do in Windsor | Things to do in Windsor | What to see in Windsor Castle | Visit Windsor | Visit England | Visit Berkshire | Long Walk Windsor | Windsor Castle | Windsor Town | Royal Castle | Royal Palace via @GGeorgina_timelesstravelsteps/

Victoria-An intimate look at the Woman behind the Crown and her childhood

Victoria-An intimate look at the Woman behind the Crown and her childhood

It was the first day of the Discover the real Victoria, made in Kensington Exhibition, 24th May, a glorious day of summer sunshine and the Palace grounds were a busy sight! People sunbathing, reading or just relaxing.

The queues to the ticket office was long…

Kensington Palace: The queues at the ticket office for, Discover the Real Victoria exhibition was long!

Fortunately for me, I did not have to wait in queue to get a ticket with a timed entry. As a Member of the Historic Royal Palaces, I get to visit at anytime and as many times as I wish. You can read more on the benefits of this Individual Membership here

Here’s how my day went at the exhibition in Kensington Palace.

Discover the Real Victoria Exhibition

The exhibition was in two parts – Victoria: Woman and Crown and Victoria: A Royal Childhood.

1 | Victoria: A Royal Childhood

Victoria, A Royal Childhood was the first of the two exhibitions where I began my tour.

It was not overwhelmingly crowded as I anticipated it to be. I had plenty of time on my hands and I did not want to rush through. The exhibition allowed the visitors to follow a route through a suite of rooms and it did give me a feel of how Victoria grew up. There were many rooms here, and these have been curated to reflect how they would have been when young Victoria grew up. I will just mention a few that is of interest and which relates to the exhibition particularly the Red Saloon room, the Dance room, the Baby room, and the Playrooms.

Read: Kensington Palace – Why you should visit this 18th century historical gem

1.1 | The Red Saloon room

Victoria's first meeting with her senior ministers in the Red Saloon Room — Victoria’s first meeting with her senior ministers in the Red Saloon Room

The Red Saloon Room was where Queen Victoria held her first meeting with the Privy Council, the most senior ministers and advisors, on 20th June 1837.It was laid out with pretty little miniature figurines on top of the large long table, depicting the scene as painted by Sir David Wilkie (1785-1841) in 1838.

Kensington Palace: Red Saloon Room - First Council Meeting of Queen Victoria by Sir David Wilkie in 1838 — Kensington Palace: Red Saloon Room – First Council Meeting of Queen Victoria by Sir David Wilkie in 1838

1.2 | The Dance Room where Victoria had her first dance with Albert

The dance room was dimly lit with a piano in one corner of the room.

I thought that the room was rather small. It was a little crowded here, so I walked briskly through to the next room.

1.3 | The Baby Room where Victoria was born

Kensington Palace: A Royal Childhood - The Baby Room where Victoria was born — ^{Kensington Palace: A Royal Childhood – The Baby Room where Victoria was born | Image: georgina_daniel}

The baby room where Princess Victoria was born was one of the highlights of my visit.

The room was dressed in green wallpaper which, perhaps, reflects her maternal Leiningen heritage. It was gently warm, the drapes neatly pulled back and the sunlight coming through. It was not difficult to imagine for a moment, stepping back into history, where the room was the same, and the glorious sunshine streaming through on a very ordinary Spring morning, same day in May, 200 years ago. Described as “a pretty little Princess, as plump as a partridge” by her Mother, the Duchess of Kent in a personal letter, the heir, fifth in line to the throne was born.

Queen V_3 — Victoria, Duchess of Kent with Victoria, later Queen Victoria, c.1824 (enamel on copper), Henry Bone (1755-1834) / Royal Collection Trust © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, 2018 (credit to: http://blog.bridgemanimages.com/

I remained fascinated with the unfolding of her story as I continued on to Her playrooms.

1.4 | Victoria’s Playroom

Her playrooms were well laid out with a toy box in the centre of the room. There was an invitation for children to sit on the carpet and play with the toys from the toy box, a gesture which I thought was unusual. I have visited many palaces and castles during my visits and usually there are signs that says “please do not touch” – I was pleasantly surprised that here, and I welcome the idea too, to engage children-visitors to get the feel of how Victoria played.

I was enchanted with Victoria’s doll house, with its miniature furniture and pretty colours. It was an ordinary London townhouse. It is thought that it was probably made by the palace staff with household bibs and bobs and scrapes of pretty pink palace wallpaper.

Kensington Palace: A Royal Childhood - Victoria's Doll House — Kensington Palace: A Royal Childhood – Victoria’s Doll House

The Ten Wooden Peg Dolls caught my attention. Victoria started collecting these when she was 11 years old. After two years, she had 132 dolls, each with a name and its own background story either after her favourite dancers or imaginary ladies.

1.5 | Victoria’s Journal and Kensington System

Victoria had vivid imagination and would describe the characters in detail. She was lost in writing her own stories.

IMG_2231 (2) — Kensington Palace: A Royal Childhood – Kensington System Rules

The rooms displayed her journal entries and, in some instances her handwritten entries. These captivated my interests and I spent some time reading them. The sight of “Kensington System” hung on the wall and the distressing effects of these rules did not go amiss but I remained fascinated by her story.

1.6 | Theatre Room

There was a Theatre room which was cute. Victoria loved the theatre, and she attended the concerts and the theatre shows as often as she could. It was one way to escape the constraints of the “Kensington System”.

Kensington Palace: A Royal Childhood - The Theatre Room where Victoria visited to escape the Kensington System — Kensington Palace: A Royal Childhood – The Theatre Room where Victoria visited to escape the Kensington System

From the Royal Childhood of Victoria, the exhibition continued on to Woman and Crown Exhibition.

Read: Kensington Palace Gardens – an idyllic getaway from chaos of the City

2 | Victoria – Woman and Crown (1819-1901)

Kensington Palace: Victoria - Woman and Crown (1819-1901) — ^{Kensington Palace: Victoria – Woman and Crown (1819-1901)}

There were a lot of information exhibited here and dresses she wore. This exhibition was aimed at unveiling the private life of Queen Victoria behind the carefully controlled public image of her role as queen, wife, mother and empress.

2.1 | Victoria as a Woman

IMG_2328 (2) — ^{Kensington Palace: Victoria – Woman and Crown Exhibition, The Secret Portrait of Queen Victoria, by Franz Xaver Winterhalter in 1843, Lent by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for the exhibition.}

As a woman, Victoria was totally in love with Prince Albert. She commissioned a secret portrait of herself as a surprise gift to Prince Albert for his 24th birthday. The portrait shows Victoria in a simple ivory gown, looking relaxed, with her long hair round her shoulders in a sensuous manner – intended for his eyes only!

2.2 | Victoria as a Woman

As a wife, Victoria adored her husband, Prince Albert. In her words, he was “an angel whose brightness shall illuminate my life” – she submitted to the choices of her husband in all matters.

The dresses and the jewellery she wore was often designed and chosen by Albert. They both often appeared in public together which made them popular with the nation.

IMG_2320 (2) — ^{The original colour of this dress was bright pink . Queen Victoria wore a bonnet so as not to upstage her husband.}

One of the displays exhibited a gown worn by Victoria which was originally in bright pink and fashionable at that time. Queen Victoria always wore a bonnet when in public with Prince Albert because she did not want to upstage her husband who had no right to wear a crown. A stark contrast to the black gowns, and widow’s bonnet which she was so famous for wearing later in life.

2.3 | Victoria as a Mother

As a mother, I think her views can best be attributed to one of her journal entries in 1952:

“Children, though often a source of anxiety and difficulty, are a great blessing and cheer and brighten up life, and to see us after 12 years surrounded by this blooming family is a source of great gratitude”

2.4 | Victoria as an Empress

IMG_2345 (2) — ^{Kensington Palace: Victoria, Woman and Crown Exhibition – Victoria’s love affair with India takes centre stage at the Exhibition | Image: georgina_daniel}

As an empress of the world’s largest empire, the exhibits displayed the story behind her love affair with India, the Koh-i-Noor diamond, her friendship with deposed Maharajah Duleep Singh.

IMG_2343 (2) — ^{Kensington Palace: Victoria, Woman and Crown Exhibition – Personal diary of Queen Victoria with inscriptions in Urdu | Image: georgina_daniel}

There were exhibits of her personal diaries inscribed in Urdu.

2.5 | Victoria’s love affair with the Scottish Highlands

There were further exhibits on her visits to the Scottish Highlands and Balmoral. The couple’s first visit was in 1848 and she captured their first moments in her journal entry where she wrote:

“All seemed to breathe freedom and peace, and to make one forget the world and its sad turmoils”

They loved the mountains, the people, the highland games and the dances.

Queen Victoria published a book in 1868, ‘Leaves from the Journal of our Life in the Highlands from 1848 – 1861’ – this book were of extracts from her journal, of her time in Scotland with Albert. The book sold 80,000 copies in the first 3 months. You can purchase a copy by clicking the link below:

Buy your copy from Amazon:

Leaves from the Journal of our Life in the Highlands from 1848 – 1861

Read more on 200th Anniversary of Queen Victoria’s Birth – this blog contains a video on Balmoral Castle which gives a splendid view of the beauty of Scottish Highlands.

2.6 | Victoria’s love affair with Isle of Wight

Queen Victoria once said of Osborne House, that “it would be impossible to imagine a prettier spot” and one could not agree with her more! Osborne House became her permanent home till her death in 1901.

Read: Isle of Wight and the Victorian Love Affair with the island

Travel tips and Useful information:

Tickets

Visiting during Covid-19 and adhering to safety measures – Pre-booking and selecting a specific time slot is required prior to the day of your visit. All related information are here for you to peruse.

Tickets are £17.50 for Adults and £8.70 for Child

The ticket covers entry to Kensington Palace and the Discover the Real Victoria – Made in Kensington Exhibition.

You may wish to consider purchasing an Annual Membership with the Historic Royal Palaces which grants you unlimited access to 6 Royal Palaces including Kensington Palace.

Opening Times

Monday-Sunday: 10:00-18:00

Last admission: 17:00

Getting here

Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens,

London W8 4PX

Public Transport

London Underground and trains

High Street Kensington station (10 – 15 minute walk) – for the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines

Queensway station (10 – 15 minute walk) – for the Central line

Notting Hill Gate station (20 – 25 minute walk) – for Central, District and Circle lines

Paddington station (20 minute walk)

Bus

Routes 70, 94, 148, and 390 stop along Bayswater Road

Routes 9, 10, 49, 52, 70 and 452 stop along Kensington High Street

Is this post valuable to you in aiding your travel plans to Kensington Palace? if so, let me know in comments below or via Contact Form. I would love to hear from you.

Happy adventures!

March 2021, Update

March 2021, Update

More to read – navigate via the images

Latest articles to peruse

Amsterdam

Amsterdamse Bos 10 things to do in this glorious forest of wonderland

Amsterdamse Bos – A glorious forest of wonderland

A glorious oasis of lush forest and grassy meadows awaits those who seek to wander the outer edge of Amsterdam city – a wonderland where giant roots hug the earth, creatures who dwell amongst the sweet sounds of moving water and birdsong. With the silence and singing working together, paths criss-cross, bringing the greens of every hue alive in the midst of the towering gentle giants. Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) feels like home away from home, an easy day trip and respite from the crowded streets and coffee-shops of the freedom city centre.

While we work hard to be accurate, and provide the best information possible, we also encourage you to please always check before heading out.

Amsterdamse Bos | Amsterdam Forest

Amsterdamse Bos (in Dutch) is one of Europe’s largest urban parks and Amsterdam’s largest park and recreational area located on the outer edge of the Dutch capital.

The area was developed in the 1930s by way of providing employment to the residents. The large green belt retreat was created which could be easily accessed by Amsterdammers. This man-made wonderland sits on a specially created polder of 4 metres (13 feet) below sea level. Amsterdamse Bos is massive! It is three-times the size of Central Park in New York and is a thousand hectares of countryside. Each forest area has its own character and natural inhabitants.

Where is Amsterdamse Bos?

Nestled between Amsterdam and Amstelveen, with most of the park in Amstelveen in the south-west of Amsterdam city but the forest is owned by the City of Amsterdam. This outstanding forest has been designed to English landscape park, giving its visitors a wide perspective of views.

Exploring Amsterdamse Bos will typically involve a day of what is more than plenty to discover in this vast urban park by all types of nature lovers. From waterways, woodlands and farm animals to cycling and kayaking, Amsterdamse Bos is the place to getaway to when on a city break to Amsterdam.

Things to do at Amsterdamse Bos | Amsterdam Forest

Amsterdamse Bos - clearly marked cycle and walking trails

Home to lakes, meadows, woods, criss-crossed with well marked cycling and walking paths, there are so many activities on offer at Amsterdamse Bos.

You could feed baby goats and/or take horse-riding lessons. This wonderland of a forest goes even further – hire a boat or a kayak to explore the rural waterways or have fun climbing to the treetops in the climbing park. For a refuel, you are never too far away from cafes and little eateries dotted around. When you need a break from all the activities, take a moment to watch the day’s play at the open-air theatre.

Whatever you choose to do, here are 10 ideas on how to spend your day at this green paradise for timeless memories.

1 | Forest bathing

Disengage with the hustle and bustle of the city and simply be in nature. Be calm and quiet amongst the trees, taking in the forest atmosphere. Connect with your senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch. Immerse in the sounds of the forest, the scent of the trees, the fresh , clean air and the sunlight playing through the canopy of leaves. This simple process of relaxation, of being immersive with nature whilst breathing in deeply eases our minds, stress and worry. It gives us comfort, helps us to relax and think more clearly, whilst boosting our health and wellbeing in a natural way.

Forest bathing is not a simple walk in the woods but involve conscious and contemplative practice of being in nature.

Forest bathing or ‘forest therapy’ was developed in Japan in the 1980s. Known as shinrin yoku, where “shinrin” means “forest” and “yoku” means “bath” – shinrin yoku means bathing in the forest with all of our senses, taking in the atmosphere, restoring our moods and giving us back our vitality.

2 | Forest walk in Amsterdamse Bos

The glorious Amsterdam Forest offers plenty of space for relaxing walks and picnics with family and friends. Just breathe-in the fresh air, stroll through the path and enjoy the natural landscape. Spring and summer are great seasons to go on a walk as you get to experience the flora and fauna in abundance.

The fall season is incredible as well with the entire forest changing colour. Falling leaves tumble like large confetti from the interlocking branches above, from vivid scarlet to gold covering the earth. If you are lucky, you might catch sight of mushrooms popping up here and there.

After a magnificent walk, you may want to stop for some pancakes and coffee at Boerderij Meerzicht (Meerzicht Farm).

Meerzicht farm, Koenenkade 56
1081 KG Amsterdam

3 | Cycle trip through Amsterdamse Bos

Cycling trips to Amsterdamse Bos are popular activity. While there are plenty of space for family and groups to enjoy this incredible forest wonderland, Amsterdamse Bos is best explored by bike due to its size. You could hire a bike from the bike rental kiosk situated right across from the entrance to the forest. Alternatively, you could pre-book and collect your bike from any of the collection points in Amsterdam city centre and enjoy the the 20 minutes ride to Amsterdamse Bos.

A special cycle tour of 14 km has been marked through the forest to show you all the beauty of this wonderland in one trip. You can pick this up from the Visitor Centre, De Boswinkel.

4 | Fun in the Forest from above | Amsterdamse Bos Fun Forest Climbing Park

Have fun swinging from tree to tree, or climb a rope ladder for views from above. Try the suspension bridge for a little fun or move from tree to tree through bridges.

The high rope adventure starts from 4 metres to 15 metres. The Climbing Park comes with various levels of difficulty and is suitable for both young and old.

Fun Forest Climbing Park runs activities suitable for children’s birthday parties as well as teambuilding events for adults.

Entrance to the Climbing Park is located opposite to the Visitor Centre, De Boswinkel.

Opening hours: From March to November – Wednesday afternoons from 12.00 am to 6.00 pm and in the weekends and in holidays from 11.00 am to 6.00 pm. During school holidays (May, Summer and Autumn) Fun Forest is open every day.

5 | Look out for ‘Schotse Hooglanders’ – Scottish Highlanders

^{Scottish Highlanders at Amsterdamse Bos}

The Scottish Highlanders were introduced to Amsterdamse Bos to help keep the grass in the meadows short. Look out for signs that says ‘ Schotse Hooglanders’ to find them. Helping them with the task of grazing are also some Exmoor ponies, introduced in 2019.

6 | Kayaking in Amsterdamse Bos

One of the coolest things to do in Amsterdamse Bos is to go kayaking. There are so many waterways, interconnected streams. ponds and lakes where you can explore some of the most beautiful parts of the forest. You could explore alone or as a group of three by renting a kayak. Look out for signs that says ‘‘Kanoverhuur’ where you could rent one.

7 | Feed baby goats and/or take horse riding lessons at Amsterdamse Bos.

Amsterdam Bos goat farm — ^{Amsterdamse Bos goat farm}

A fun activity for children as well as for adults is to feed baby goats at Ridammerhoeve. Explore this biodynamic farm situated at the centre of Amsterdamse Bos and learn more of its living ecosystem and sustainable farming by chatting to their staff while they work. You could also purchase products made on the farm from the shop. Riddammerhoeve is famous for its goat milk ice-cream which you may wish to try when visiting the farm.

8 | Ride the Museumtram to Amsterdamse Bos

Travel back in time and take the Museum Tram from Haarlemmermeer Station all the way to Amsterdamse Bos. The tram stops at the entrance of Amsterdamse Bos if you wish to disembark. However, if you continue a little further along on the tram journey, you will be rewarded with some beautiful sights.

The Museum Tram service runs a route of 7 kilometres, on the last remaining section of the Haarlemmermeer railways via Amsterdamse Bos and several wildlife gardens in Amstelveen.

Route: Haarlemmermeer station to Amstelveen-Bovenkerk

Availability: This popular ride only runs on a Sunday, from Easter Sunday till the end of October.

The service runs every 20 to 30 minutes between 10:00 and 17:00

Costs: Return tickets for adults costs €4 and for children + seniors is €2

9 | Enjoy Magical moments at Amsterdamse Bos Outdoor Theatre

Enjoy a magical evening of special theatrical performances in a stunning atmosphere every evening in July and August. For timeless memories, you could select to have pre-theatre dinner on stage. Performances are subject to weather conditions. Peruse options by navigating to their official website > bostheatre

10 | Unwind at Zuiver | Place to stay at Amsterdam Bos

Amsterdam Bos Zuiver — ^{Hotel & Wellness Zuiver}

Immerse in a world of peace and luxury, amidst a beautiful environment to rejuvenate – the ultimate in wellness experience. Select from modern guest rooms to luxurious suites to suit your trip. From 24-hour front desk, you could come and go as you please.

Located at just 450 yards from Amsterdamse Bos.

Hotel & Wellnes Zuiver

Other activities at Amsterdamse Bos

There are other activities you could indulge in such as swimming or horse riding. The lakes are said to have clean clear waters and safe for a dip in the summer. There are two riding schools where you could hire the horses on the condition that you are a good rider.

For those who are into adventure and discovery, you could explore Amsterdamse Bos by undertaking a group activity (up to 5 persons) involving a self-guided discovery game to explore Amsterdam’s Forest. You will solve a trail of riddles and unlock the forest’s best-kept secrets while immersing in the tranquility, and serenity of this wonderland.

Practical information when exploring Amsterdamse Bos

Amsterdamse Bos is great for everyone, young and old alike. Kids would thoroughly enjoy their interactions with farm animals.

Amsterdamse Bos Address:

The Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest),
Bosbaanweg 5,
1182 AG AMSTELVEEN

52°18′39″N 4°49′57″E

Open All year round

Entrance to Amsterdamse Bos is Free.

Visitor Centre at Amsterdamse Bos

There is a Visitor Centre, ‘De Boswinkel’ for information which is open from Tuesday through to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00

How to get to Amsterdamse Bos

There are 4 ways to get to Amsterdam Bos:

1 | Historic Museum Tram

Take the historic tram from Haarlemmermeer Station to Amstelveen and disembark at Amsterdamse Bos – see #8 above.

2 | By Bicycle

Amsterdam is a green city and cycling is a way of life for Amsterdammers. There are well laid out cycle lanes on both sides of the road. If you intend to explore Amsterdamse Bos with a two-wheeler, then follow the route to go there via Amstelveenseweg, in the southwest of the city and on the first big crossing in Amstelveen turn right to the park.

Plan ahead and rent a bike in Amsterdam Green City.

3 | By Public Transport – Bus

Amsterdamse Bos is easily accessible by public transport.

From Centraal Station:

Take Bus #21, operated by GVB, journey time is 15 minutes.

You could also take bus #170, #172 or #174.

From RAI Station: Take bus #66 and #199

Peruse your public transportation options before leaving home. Amsterdam has a cashless system in place and it is worthwhile to pre-order the correct tickets for your journeys. Take a look at:

Best Value Public Transport Tickets for Amsterdam

Amsterdam City and Regional Public Transport Travel Pass

By Car:

From Amsterdam, drive away from the city, head southwest towards Amstelveenseweg. Exit the ring A10 at S103 and turn left into the Amstelveenseweg. After about 2 miles, Amstelveenseweg enters the municipality of Amstelveen. At the third crossing from A10, turn right to the park. There will be a small blue sign marking the turn. You may park your car on one of the 30 car parks. Parking at Amsterdamse Bos is free.

Things to do around Amsterdam Bos

Things to do are aplenty in and around Amsterdam Bos! A great start is Amsterdam city where you explore beyond the best of the beaten track – use this great guide on the Unmissable 28 best things to do in Amsterdam that has some off-the beaten path destinations. Look-up also places where you can have the best stroopwafels in town – the time-honoured Gouda waffles are indeed a must-try! Plan ahead and book your activities in time so you don’t miss out on best experiences.

Places to stay around Amsterdam Bos

From fully furnished rental apartments to high-end 5-star hotels Amsterdam – you are spoilt for choice! However, these beautiful places may help you in your quest for a place to stay.

On a final note…

Amsterdamse Bos is located close to Amsterdam city and yet not many visitors to the city are aware of its existence, as was I on my first visit. Most visitors stay within the city centre and hardly explore the hidden gems that surrounds the city. It is worth spending a day in this glorious wonderland of man-made natural forest and explore it as unhurried, slow-side of travel.

Sincerely hope that this guide has been valuable in your search for Amsterdamse Bos and travel to Amsterdam generally. If so, use the links embedded in this article to book your travels, place to stay or activities you intend to do. TTS earns a commission from qualified bookings/purchases at no cost to you. As always your support is highly appreciated to keep this blog going. Do get in touch if you have any questions about our trusted partners.

Quick facts on Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam on world map — **^{52° 22′ 40.6416” N and 4° 53′ 49.4520” E}**

City: Capital of Netherlands

Population: 1,149,000

Mayor: Femke Halsema (since 2018)

Zone: Central European Time Zone | Central European Summer Time

Elevation: -2m (-7ft) – Dam Square

Nearest Airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Train Station: Amsterdam Centraal Station

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Keep exploring…

Pin me on Pinterest!

Amsterdamse Bos 10 things to do in this glorious forest of wonderland first published at timelesstravelsteps.com

A glorious forest of wonderland that feels like home away from home-Amsterdamse Bos sits on the outer edge of Amsterdam that is so worth exploring! A Complete Guide to Amsterdamse Bos | Amsterdamse Bos | Amsterdam Forest | Visit Amsterdam | Amsterdam off-the-beaten path | Dat trips from Amsterdam | Things to do in Amsterdam | Forest bathing in Amsterdam | Cycle ride in Amsterdam | Explore Amsterdam with a bike | Explore the waterways in Amsterdam | Amsterdam on a weekend | via @GGeorgina_timelesstravelsteps/

30th May 20213rd June 2021

Amsterdam

Uithoorn – a serene haven where nature, wildlife and history comes together

Uithoorn – a serene haven where nature, wildlife and history comes together

Located to the south of the Dutch capital is a little town called Uithoorn, home to an extensive nature reserve and a haven for wildlife. With simple and beautiful cafes and shops, the area boasts serene landscapes, ideal for walks and picnics. Uithoorn is best known for its historic fort along with its unusual city flag.

While we work hard to be accurate, and provide the best information possible, we also encourage you to please always check before heading out.

About Uithoorn

Uithoorn city flag and coat of arms

Uithoorn coat of arms | Amsterdam — ^{Uithoorn Coat of Arms: Wikimedia}

Uithoorn’s city flag and its coat of arms, both of which feature a figure emerging from a golden horn. The town’s name literally means ‘from the horn.’

The name De Uithoorn originated from the Middle Ages and it referred to the area or location of the lower courts of St John. The village formed around the courthouse.

Defence Line of Amsterdam

Fast-forward to 1880s, a series of fortifications were built encircling Amsterdam as part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam, also known as Stelling van Amsterdam in Dutch.

The Defence Line of Amsterdam is a 135 km (84 miles) of fortifications consisting of 42 forts. These were built between 1880 and 1920, primarily as a defensive waterline, where it can be easily flooded in times of war. With the invention of air and land defences (tank) the fortifications were obsolete from the time it was built. The Defence Line of Amsterdam is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, (1996) where the public can visit.

Development of Uithoorn

In addition to the Defence Line, a railway was built in 1915. Uithoorn developed very quickly after the Second World War with new neighbourhoods, lakes, ports and shopping centres.

What to expect on a visit to Uithoorn:

Uithoorn is an easy day-trip from Amsterdam and can typically take most of a morning and lunch, perhaps in one of the quaint eateries or a picnic in its beautiful parks. As a guide, here are three highlights of Uithoorn for you to explore:

1 | An abundance of nature and wildlife

Uithoorn is host to 60-hectare nature reserve that surrounds a lake called the Zijdelmeer. The beautiful landscape is made up of grasslands, hay islands and swampy forest. The area offers fantastic spots for walks, and home to a diverse wildlife. There are great spots for picnics as well.

2 | Garden of Bram de Groote

When visiting Uithoorn, look out for the Garden of Bram de Groote. The entry point is along the Boterdijk. This beautiful garden is maintained by a group of volunteers and entry is free. However, note that it is only open to the public during the warmer months of April to September, on the first Sunday of the month.

3 | Fort on the Drecht

Fort on the Drecht, | Uithoorn | Amsterdam — ^{Fort on the Drecht, Uithoorn}

Make time to visit Fort on the Drecht, an incredible piece of history. This Fort was built in 1911 as part of a wider defence network built (Defence Line of Amsterdam – mentioned above) around the town from 1880 to 1920. Fort on the Drecht has now been fully restored and is host to a multitude of galleries, studios and exhibitions. It also houses an array of shops and eateries. This marvellous historic place also sometimes, has various cultural activities, glass blowing and wine tasting.

Address: Grevelingen 50, 1423 DN Uithoorn

How to get to Uithoorn, Netherlands

Uithoorn is conveniently located within a short distance of Amsterdam city. Take bus #170 from Amsterdam Centraal station towards Amstelveen. This bus stops at Uithoorn main bus station, whereupon you disembark and explore the great outdoors and the charming historic fort.

If you plan to explore the surrounding areas of Amsterdam, it is worth looking into purchasing the Amsterdam City and Regional Public Transport Travel Pass for the days you intend to explore the outskirts. The Amsterdam City and Regional Public Transport Travel Pass offer unlimited travel on buses, trams, trains and metros in Amsterdam and surrounds – just hop-on and hop-off without a worry or taking your wallet out for each ride.

Practical information when visiting Uithoorn from Amsterdam

Travelling to Amsterdam by Air

If you are planning a trip to Amsterdam by air, then you may want to look up EasyJet, Jet2 and On the Beach for best on budget air travel. For long-haul travel with comfort, Opodo offers a great selection and is one of the best – look them up by clicking the link below.

2 | Travelling to Amsterdam by Rail

Eurail is a global provider of train tickets and partners with European rail networks to bring you the best in train travels. You can select the best to suit your itinerary by clicking the link below. Book well in advance to secure best value tickets.

You could also try Trainline for best offers on UK and European rail fares.

3 | Upon arrival

If you are travelling by air, you would arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). There are several ways to reach Amsterdam central either by private transfer or public transport. Amsterdam boasts a comprehensive train network and you could reach Amsterdam Centraal in 15 minutes or if you take the bus/shuttle, you will reach Amsterdam city in 35-40 minutes.

Travelling by train means that you shall be arriving at Amsterdam Centraal Station and from here it is easy to hop onto a taxi or tram to get to your accommodation.

4 | Places to stay in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a multitude of places for unique experiences and beautiful places to stay for timeless memories. Take a look at this carefully selected hotels and book a stay ahead of time to lock-in the low price.

5 | Things to do in Amsterdam

Whether you are visiting Amsterdam for a weekend or for longer stay, there a great many things to do in Amsterdam, both the popular touristy activities and off-the-beaten-path. Take a look at what you could do in 48 hours and the Unmissable 28 best things to do in Amsterdam.

6 | Planning a road trip around Netherlands?

Planning a road trip around Netherlands and you need a set of wheels? Well, best value does not come any better than Travel Supermarket! Travel Supermarket is a price comparison site that finds the best and cheapest value for the length of your itinerary in real time. Ensure you book and lock-in the best value by clicking the link below:

7 | Visa & Entry requirements

If you are a non-European Union resident, you may need a Visa to visit Netherlands. Check requirements with iVisa.

8 | Travel Insurance

Never leave home without travel insurance! World Nomads is highly recommended as you can buy and claim on the go. Their cover is comprehensive and you could select one that best suits your itinerary.

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Finally…

Uithoorn is a hidden gem – a beautiful landscape and picturesque spots where you can experience the serenity of nature, wildlife and a little history of an unspoilt town.

Sincerely hope that this guide has been valuable in your search for Uithoorn and travel to Amsterdam generally. If so, use the links embedded in this article to book your travels, place to stay or activities you intend to do. TTS earns a commission from qualified bookings/purchases at no cost to you and, as always your support is highly appreciated to keep this blog going. Do get in touch if you have any questions about our trusted partners.

Have a splendid time exploring Uithoorn while discovering Amsterdam and surrounds.

xoxo

Quick facts on Amsterdam, Netherlands

City: Capital of Netherlands

Population: 1,149,000

Mayor: Femke Halsema (since 2018)

Zone: Central European Time Zone | Central European Summer Time

Elevation: -2m (-7ft) – Dam Square

Nearest Airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Train Station: Amsterdam Centraal Station

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Travelling from UK to Netherlands

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Uithoorn – where nature, wildlife and history comes together was first published at timelesstravelsteps.com

Located to the south of the Dutch capital is a little town called Uithoorn, home to an extensive nature reserve and a haven for wildlife. via @GGeorgina_timelesstravelsteps/

27th May 202112th June 2021

Amsterdam

Rent a bike in Amsterdam Green City

Rent a bike in Amsterdam Green City

Amsterdam has some awesome scenic routes to be explored by bike. Even if you pedal for a couple of hours, exploring Amsterdam by bike is an experience to be had. Explore the Dutch capital like an Amsterdammer! Support one of the world’s most eco-friendly cities – rent a bike in Amsterdam and reduce your carbon footprint. Have fun discovering Amsterdam in an economical, and sustainable way.

How to rent a bike in Amsterdam

eco-friendly Amsterdam | rent a bike in Amsterdam

Renting a bike in Amsterdam is easy – there are many rental points located around the city for pick-up and drop-off. One of the most convenient way is to pre-book before your journey to Amsterdam and you could pick it up as soon as you need to.

To rent a bike in Amsterdam, you need to be aware of the following information:

Free cancellation – Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund

Covid-19 precautions are in place so you are safe.

Mobile ticketing – Use your phone or print your voucher

Valid – 3 hours – 1 day from first activation

Instant confirmation

Rent a bike to make the most of your visit to Amsterdam. Cycle easily from one landmark to another, along the beautiful canals, through the artsy Jordaan neighborhood, the famous Red Light District, or through the breathtaking Vondelpark. You can also cycle out of the city for a trip through the beautiful landscape around Amsterdam, such as the rural Waterland or the green Amstelland, along the Amstel River.
Receive guidance on various cycling routes, traffic and parking rules, and a high-quality bike. With five bike rental locations in the center of Amsterdam, there’s always a location nearby. Choose from footbrake or handbrake bicycles in all models and sizes. Have the bike adjusted to your height, and embark on your adventure across the city.
GYG

Includes:

Bike rental
2 Locks

Excludes

X Food and drinks

X Insurance

X Deposit which can be made with a copy of your credit card for up to 5 bikes, or with a passport and €50 cash per bike.

Not suitable:

Children under 12 years
People with mobility impairments
People who can’t ride a bike
Wheelchair users

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

What to bring

Passport or ID card

Know before you go

Deposit is not included in the rental price
Deposit can be made with a copy of your credit card for up to 5 bikes, or with a passport and €50 in cash per bike
Bike rental is not recommended for people with limited mobility
Insurance is not included
Please note that food and beverages are not included
Please note that there is no guide

Rent a bike in Amsterdam – prices start from € 7.50 per person

**Prices correct at time of writing – May 2021

Quick facts on Amsterdam, Netherlands

City: Capital of Netherlands

Population: 1,149,000

Mayor: Femke Halsema (since 2018)

Zone: Central European Time Zone | Central European Summer Time

Elevation: -2m (-7ft) – Dam Square

Nearest Airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Train Station: Amsterdam Centraal Station

Travel advice Netherlands

Travelling from UK to Netherlands

All articles on Amsterdam

What’s new…

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Pin me on Pinterest!

Have an awesome time in Amsterdam!

Rent a bike in Amsterdam to make the most of your visit to this green city. Cycle easily from one landmark to another, along the beautiful canals,Bike out of town into the countryside through lovely landscapes marked by flowers, farms, windmills and lakes | Amsterdam Green City | Explore Amsterdam by Bike | Discover Dutch Countryside by Bike | Visit Amsterdam | Amsterdam responsible tourism | Sustainable tourism. via @GGeorgina_timelesstravelsteps/

24th May 202112th June 2021

Europe

Best places to eat Stroopwafels in Amsterdam

Best places to eat stroopwafels in Amsterdam

While we work hard to be accurate, and provide the best information possible, we also encourage you to please always check before heading out.

Stroopwafels are one of world’s best cookies! These best-known Dutch cookies are amazingly sweet and chewy, consisting of a thin layer of caramel sandwiched between two thin wafers – you try one, you will definitely try another…and another… They taste absolutely divine alongside a cup of coffee or tea and there’s no better place to taste this heavenly treat than in Amsterdam, where you can eat stroopwafels made to its original recipe. Here’s a little background to stroopwafels in Amsterdam, and the best places to eat stroopwafels in Amsterdam.

stroopwafels in Amsterdam — ^{Stroopwafels in Amsterdam}

Originated between the 18th and 19th centuries from Gouda, Netherlands a city better known for its cheese, stroopwafels was discovered accidentally by a baker who wanted to avoid wastage. He mixed-up leftover cookie crumbs into a dough and made them into thin crispy layers of waffles, then adding sweet gooey syrup, a deliberate sweet treat. It became so popular that other bakers across Netherlands followed and stroopwafels became a national staple. Just know that every baker will have his/her own touch to the stroopwafel but the essence of this sweet treat is the wafer-thin gooey sandwich.

stroopwafel on a cup of tea | stroopwafels in Amsterdam — ^{stroopwafels on a cup of tea | stroopwafels in Amsterdam}

Stroopwafels are best eaten when freshly made, chewy and gooey. If you can’t get hold of freshly made ones, try the packaged ones instead. Although the packaged ones are a little brittle, place them on cups of coffee or tea, and allow the steam to gently soften them up so you could bite into the gooey caramel. These heavenly cookies are available at bakeries, patisseries, cafes, supermarkets, markets and stores throughout Netherlands.

So, when visiting Amsterdam, do not leave town without tasting this Dutch speciality – here are three of the best places to eat stroopwafels in Amsterdam.

1 | Lanskroon

stroopwafels.amsterdam.lanskroon | stroopwafels in Amsterdam — ^{© Lanskroon | stroopwafels in Amsterdam}

The highly recommended one by the locals is Lanskroon, located in the centre of Amsterdam. Lanskroon is popular for its giant-size stroopwafel – about 12 cm in diameter. These crispy waffles are freshly made throughout the day, extremely tasty and come in two flavours of syrup, honey or coffee-caramel.

Lanskroon is a family-run business and has been baking batch after batch of cookies, cakes and pies for four generations. They also do several homemade ice-cream which you may also want to try. When you visit Lanskroon, take a seat in their charming, cosy and traditional tearoom overlooking the Singel Canal and watch the world go by…

Lanskroon

Address: Singel 385 (near ‘het Spui’), Amsterdam.

Opening hours: Monday till Saturday from 9.00 – 17.00
Sunday from 10.00 – 17.00

2 | “the guy in Albert Cuypmarkt” – Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels

original rudi's truck | stroopwafels in Amsterdam

Stroopwafels in Amsterdam from “the guy in Cuyp” is one that you must absolutely try! “The guy” sells the mouthwateringly delish cookie from an old-school cookie truck at Albert Cuypmarkt. The stroopwafels are freshly made to the secret recipe handed down to him by the original baker in Gouda. The authentic Gouda-style stroopwafels in Amsterdam is said to be the most delicious stroopwafel in Netherlands and has gained many loyal fans worldwide. A visit to Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels at Albert Cuypmarkt is an opportunity to taste this time-honoured gooey-sweet-treat straight from the grill, and to buy some pre-packed in pretty little tins to be shared with friends.

Read the story of Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels and pay them a visit:

Address: At the middle of the Albert Cuypmarkt, Amsterdam, near #182 (the historical building with the golden angel on top.

Opening times:

Monday to Friday > 11:00 to 17:00

Saturday > 10:30 to 17:30

Sunday: Closed

3 | Melly’s Stroopwafels in Amsterdam

Melly’s is a family business that has been operating from a cute cottage-like shop, making fresh, warm and delicious stroopwafels in Amsterdam. The fusion of cinnamon and caramel will just make your mouth water as you bite into the crispy, gooey waffle topped with crunchy toppings of your choice. Choose from Smarties, chocolate chunks, or toasted nuts.

Melly’s Stroopwaffles in Amsterdam is open 7 days a week, so you can’t miss it on your visit at any day.

Address: Nieuwezijds voorburgwal 141
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 to 22:00

Sunday: 09:00 to 22:00

Other places to eat stroopwafels in Amsterdam

In addition to the best of the best already mentioned above, stroopwafels in Amsterdam are available at almost everywhere and you could try the following places as well:

Croissanterie Hans Egstorf, Spuistraat 274, Amsterdam Centrum, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Stach, 1A Nieuwe Hoogstraat, Amsterdam Centrum, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Practical tips for when visiting Amsterdam

1 | Travelling to Amsterdam by Air

If you are planning a trip to Amsterdam by air, then you may want to look up EasyJet, Jet2 and On the Beach for best on budget air travel. For long-haul travel with comfort, Etihad is one of the best – look them up by clicking the link below.

2 | Travelling to Amsterdam by Rail

You could also try Trainline for best offers on UK and European rail fares.

3 | Upon arrival

Travelling by train means that you shall be arriving at Amsterdam Centraal Station and from here it is easy to hop onto a taxi or tram to get to your accommodation.

4 | Places to Stay in Amsterdam

5 | Things to do in Amsterdam

6 | Planning a road trip?

7 | Visa | Entry requirements

If you are a non-European resident, you may need a Visa to visit Netherlands. Check requirements with iVisa.

8 | Travel Insurance

Never leave home without travel insurance! World Nomads is highly recommended as you can buy and claim on the go. Their cover is comprehensive and you could select one that best suits your itinerary.

Sincerely hope that this guide has been valuable in your search for the best places to eat stroopwafels in Amsterdam. If so, use the links embedded in this article to book your travels, place to stay or activities you intend to do. TTS earns a commission from your bookings at no cost to you and, as always your support is highly appreciated to keep this blog going. Do get in touch if you have any questions.

Have a great time biting into the warm, crispy gooey heavenly strropwafels in Amsterdam over coffee 🙂

xoxo

Quick facts on Amsterdam, Netherlands

City: Capital of Netherlands

Population: 1,149,000

Mayor: Femke Halsema (since 2018)

Zone: Central European Time Zone | Central European Summer Time

Elevation: -2m (-7ft) – Dam Square

Nearest Airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Train Station: Amsterdam Centraal Station

Travel advice Netherlands

Travelling from UK to Netherlands