The British monarchy’s residences often project wealth, power, and luxury to the world, but shadowed by that projection are history and secrets. Go behind-the-scenes of the palaces with Secrets of the Royal Palaces on Thursdays at 9 p.m. beginning April 15. Narrated by Downton Abbey actress Samantha Bond, the documentary series provides viewers with stories from royal commentators and ex-staff members about the palaces, their history, and those who reside there.
201: “Buckingham Palace” - April 15 at 9 p.m.
Begin to unveil the many secrets of the palaces by starting with Buckingham Palace. In the first episode, hear about the structure's former rat problem and the part the location played in Prince Charles and Princess Diana's courtship.
202: “Balmoral Castle” - April 22 at 9 p.m.
Learn about the Balmoral Castle, located in Scotland and built by Prince Albert as a highland getaway for him and Queen Victoria. While it’s not to everyone’s taste with its part medieval fortress, part French chateau design, the castle provides a retreat from prying eyes for the Royals.
203: “Windsor Castle” - April 29 at 9 p.m.
Secrets old and new have found themselves a home in Windsor Castle. In this episode, hear how Elizabeth I escaped the bubonic plague in 1563, then jump to the present to learn more about the Sandringham Summit, the meeting Queen Elizabeth II called after Harry and Meghan announced their departure from the royal family.
204: "Sandringham" - May 6 at 9 p.m.
Take a trip to Norfolk to visitSandringham House, purchased in 1861 for Prince Edward, in hopes of settling him down in the countryside. As one of the few royal residences owned personally by the Windsors, Prince Edward proved Sandringham to be the perfect palace for a party with his additions of a bowling alley, billiards, and endless hunting and shooting.
205: "Highgrove House" - May 13 at 9 p.m.
With only nine bedrooms, Highgrove House in Gloucester is the smallest royal residence currently in use. A product of Prince Charle’s creation, the house includes an extraordinarily innovative and inspiring garden described as an organic oasis.
206: "Kensington Palace" - May 20 at 9 p.m.
Home to the extended royal family members, Kensington Palace has been a residence to many Royals since the 17th century. The first royal occupants were William and Mary, who reigned from 1688. The two hired Christopher Wren to expand Nottingham House into a palace. Said to be done quickly and cheaply, some now describe the expansion as a bit of a ‘botched job.’
207: "Holyrood House" - May 27 at 9 p.m.
The Holyrood House in Edinburgh is known to be the Royals' official residence in Scotland. Described as an actual fortress, the Holyrood House has seen bloody struggles for power between the murder of David Rizzio, the secretary of Mary Queen of Scots, and the murder of Lord Darnley, her second husband. Her tragic history is written in her still-preserved rooms.
208: "Palace of St. James" - June 3 at 9 p.m.
Complete the Secrets of the Royal Palaces series with a visit to the Palace of St. James. Hidden in central London, the palace is often overlooked. However, many consider it the true seat of royal power. Built by Henry VIII for his second wife, Anne Boleyn, the palace didn't reach completion until several years later. By that time, Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn's marriage was no longer.
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