On November 2, I visited Kensington Palace, Queen Victoria’s birthplace and childhood home. It was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of my recent trip to the United Kingdom.

When I purchased tickets, I anticipated crowds of tourists and indifferent staff—common at major attractions in London. Instead, I was delighted to discover a sense of connection, joy, and wonder while exploring the palace. The exceptional staff shared my deep appreciation and respect for Queen Victoria, making this visit truly memorable.

Historical Context: Victoria and British Columbia

Queen Victoria is Canada’s version of George Washington: a larger-than-life figure whose name and likeness are deeply entwined with the country’s early history. While the work of government and nation-building was done by others, it often happened in her name. Her presence lent continuity, dignity, and unparalleled cachet to the Canadian and British Columbian ethos.

Her influence is everywhere in British Columbia. For example:

• In 1843, the Hudson’s Bay Company named “Fort Victoria” after the young queen. This fort would later grow into Victoria, British Columbia’s capital and one of the first places named in her honour.
• In 1858, she personally selected the name “British Columbia” for the colony, emphasizing its British identity.
• In 1859, she chose “New Westminster” as the name for the colony’s capital at the time.

Growing up in Nanaimo, I associated her name and image with grandeur and authority—yet she felt distant, like a character from mythology. Later, my fascination with history and the monarchy inspired me to delve into her life. Reading about her formative years, long reign, and even her journals helped me see her as a person.

Yet, Queen Victoria never visited Canada, leaving her connection to this country largely symbolic. That’s why I felt such a pull to visit Kensington Palace—the place where she lived, worked, and made decisions that shaped our history.

The Journey to Kensington Palace

On my second day in London, I took the Central Line from Ealing Broadway to Queensway Station and walked to Kensington Palace, eager to begin my £26 tour, which included a guidebook.

Surrounded by Kensington Gardens, the palace is nestled in a green space crisscrossed with pedestrian pathways and bike trails. The gardens exude a democratic, inclusive atmosphere, feeling less like a grand royal domain and more like a public space shaped by the people who enjoy it.

The entrance to the palace grounds is marked by a stunning statue of Queen Victoria as a young woman in her coronation robes. Sculpted by her daughter, Princess Louise (namesake of Alberta), the statue was unveiled in 1893.

When I arrived, a friendly woman scanned my ticket and welcomed me inside, setting the tone for what would become an exceptional day.

Exploring the Palace

I began my visit with an audio-guided tour of the Queen’s State Apartments, built for Queen Mary II in the 1690s. These Tudor-inspired rooms remain largely intact, and, for a short time, I had the section entirely to myself. It was surreal.

Though informative, the audio guide felt like a distraction. To me, Kensington Palace is a sacred space, and I wanted to experience it on my own terms. I put the headset away and explored independently, savouring each moment.

The Queen’s Staircase, constructed by Christopher Wren between 1689 and 1694, was a particular highlight. In Canada, I’ve always run up stairs clumsily, so I couldn’t resist racing up these historic steps, imagining Queen Mary II and Queen Anne doing the same. It was my playful way of saying, “Hello, Kensington Palace! Nathaniel is here!”

Unfortunately, my attempt to repeat this on the more ornate King’s Staircase—decorated with stunning 18th-century murals—earned me some amused glances from American tourists. I decided to focus on my surroundings instead.

Moments of Connection

In the Cupola Room, I met Claire, a guide wearing a pin that read, “Ask me about Feodora,” referring to Queen Victoria’s half-sister. Claire passionately explained the palace’s history, and we bonded over our shared admiration for Queen Victoria.

Claire shared a childhood story of meeting a Chelsea Pensioner who had once met Queen Victoria herself. Thanks to her, I can now say I’ve met someone who met someone who met Queen Victoria—a thrilling connection to history!

Our conversation ended with her witty observation that, if alive today, Queen Victoria would likely have an anonymous Twitter account to share her strong opinions as a secret internet troll. It was an uproarious and delightful thought.

Recognizing my appreciation for Queen Victoria, Claire showed me some areas of the palace most closely associated with her life and story. In those places, I felt a profound reverence in the air. There was a quiet stillness that made me keenly aware I was standing in a sacred space, and I took a moment to simply be present there.

I traced the very same steps Queen Victoria took during her first hours as monarch, including the spot in the sumptuous King’s Gallery where she was informed by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Lord Chamberlain of her accession.

Later, I visited the Red Saloon, where Queen Victoria held her first Privy Council meeting in 1837. Natasha, another guide, encouraged me to sit in the chair at the table’s head—a replacement donated by Princess Margaret. She pointed to a painting depicting the meeting, noting that Queen Victoria disliked it because the artist depicted her in white, rather than the black dress she had chosen to project seriousness and authority.

This moment was humbling. Sitting in the same space where Queen Victoria stepped into her role as monarch brought her history—and humanity—to life in a way I hadn’t experienced before.

Reflections

Unlike other major London attractions, Kensington Palace balances public accessibility with a sense of reverence. It doesn’t feel like a tour of someone’s private home but rather a celebration of history, carefully designed for the enjoyment of all.

Furthermore, I realized that Queen Victoria’s legacy doesn’t belong solely to history books or her direct descendants but to everyone who is passionate about her story and impact.

For me, the best part wasn’t the stunning architecture or the royal artefacts—it was connecting with people who shared my passion for Queen Victoria. As someone on the autism spectrum, my niche interests often feel isolating. Engaging with guides like Claire and Natasha, who understood and appreciated these interests, was a joy unlike any I’ve experienced.

I look forward to my next visit.