Tea With The Queen

How many times have Americans joked

about going to Buckingham Palace for 

tea with the Queen?

I mean, personally, I've heard it 

at least 100 times 

since we moved to England.

The worldwide total would be a number 

that rivaled the number of girls (and their mothers)

who dream of winning Prince Harry's heart.

Seriously though,

it's a silly statement 

because 

-obviously-

the notion of having tea

at Buckingham Palace is simply ludicrous.

Except for the fact, 

you actually can have tea at Buckingham Palace.

{Who knew?}

While the Queen is away for the late summer 

exploring her castles in Scotland,

Buckingham Palace opens to the public

for a 1.5 hour tour of the state rooms.

Apparently, visiting the palace 

must be a well-kept secret 

within the English geriatric community...

as 90% of the guests were females over 75.

{I suppose a girl's dreams of being a princess are timeless.}

This summer, the Duchess of Cambridge's dress was on display.

I got to see it even closer up than 

from my abbey-side perch 

at the Royal Wedding.

It was displayed in the Ball Room

that the wedding reception was held in,

and designer, Sarah Burton,

was featured on video 

discussing the design features

 of Kate's iconic dress.

Most of us have been to the White House or a castle on a trip at some point,

but I have to say-

no home I have ever seen

begins to rival the opulence of Buckingham Palace.

That place is no joke.

{Though no pictures are allowed inside so you'll just have to trust me.}

Bravo, England.

Not only do you let a commoner marry into the Royal Family,

but you let schleppy folk like myself

tour your home

and have tea on your back porch.

the cafe overlooking the garden. too gorgeous to explain.

we had to break the rule, and order a mid-day cappucino.... just for the crown.

Made me feel right at home...

in fact, 

I could get used to living in a place like that.

The other great thing 

was the gift shop in her backyard.

Basically,

the nicest yard sale...

 ever.

Seriously, look at the crowd here. It could rival an Alaskan cruise.

The store offers some really great merchandise:

china, lotions, soaps, towels, ornaments & chocolates.

I bought myself really posh

 (but disappointingly unused by HRH)

shower cap.

{I'm not kidding.}

The walk out the to the back gate

felt like a stroll through Central Park.

Pinkies up!

If you are looking for a place 

that almost feels as fancy & nice as Buckingham,

head to my friend, Debby's blog

Inspired Design 

and check out my feature for fall!

Debby's blog is great,

and I highly recommend it for your daily blog reads!

For more information on taking your own tour of Buckingham Palace,

check here for openings & dates when the palace is open to the public.

Pre-ordering your tickets is recommended and simple.