The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee is here: a celebration of our country’s longest reigning monarch. It’s been 70 extraordinary years since Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne following her father, King George VI, and took her place as figurehead of the nation and Commonwealth. Only 15 other monarchs have reigned for at least 70 years, with Her Majesty becoming the 16th this year. Therefore, it only seems right that the extended bank holiday weekend gives the opportunity for communities throughout the country to come together for picnics, parties and parades to celebrate this joyous occasion.
So, have you made your plans yet?
Such a milestone deserves a well thought out celebration and hosting a Jubilee party is far easier than you may first think. Trust that most of your neighbours will want to get involved as not many need persuading to dust off their bunting and trestle tables to enjoy a drink or two, cups of tea, and a Victoria sponge of course! You can never be under-decorated and this event is certainly not the time to start being half hearted. In terms of décor, lots of red, white and blue, floral garlands and fairy lights as you go into the evening are a must. If you live in a more rural area of the country, where fields and sheep far outnumber roads, why not host one out in the countryside? One thing to remember, whatever you choose, is that this is a celebration, so while you’re hosting, remember to toast Her Majesty’s achievement.
If hosting feels a bit too daunting, hundreds of celebrations have already been organised around the UK. Some official events are taking place including Trooping the Colour, lighting of the Platinum Jubilee Beacons, and the Big Jubilee Lunch. But fear not, if you don’t live close to any royal residences, you can find street parties right up in the Scottish Islands all the way down to Cornwall. No county has been missed. Luckily, the official Platinum Jubilee website has a list of all the registered parties on an easy to use map.
So, if planning to host a party for Her Majesty, look no further than these homes to provide the perfect setting…
Warblington Castle has a long history with British royalty. In fact, the property includes the ruins of the original fortified Tudor courtyard house in its grounds – quite a conversation starter for a Jubilee party!
If you want a host a street party, surely it doesn’t get better than a mews in London? This three bedroom house is on a lovely patch of cobbled street to get together with the neighbours and you’re close to most of the official celebrations too.
The Old Rectory, Leicestershire
With extensive gardens, an orchard and a paddock, there’s plenty of room for all your family and friends in the grounds of this old rectory. If the weather turns grey, you can retreat to its summer house with small log burning stove.
Monarchs, including the Queen herself, have always held a great affection for Scotland, so it provides the perfect setting to celebrate a royal occasion. Guests will be wowed by Duich House, it has a stone building with a party floor and gardens with panoramic views of Loch Duich.
Opposite 64 Kings Road is the renowned Long Walk, leading from Windsor Castle, one of the official royal residences. The market town is certain to be buzzing with celebrations so you wouldn’t be alone, including some in the castle grounds.
