Baby Cambridge is Born!

2013 is the Time to Visit Family-Friendly Britain

TORONTO, July 22, 2013 /CNW/ - The news of the birth of the Duke and Duchess's son was announced today with an easel proclaiming the birth standing outside Buckingham Palace, just as Prince William's birth was announced in 1982.  VisitBritain offers suggestions of where visitors can take in the Royal sights and the best of family-friendly Britain.  For more travel ideas on Britain, www.visitbritain.com.

The young family will make their home at Kensington Palace, where the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry grew up. The royal homes are in the private side of Kensington Palace, but visitors can explore the side open to the public, and see the King's and Queen's State Apartments.  With such a glamorous and stylish mother, the new baby is likely to be equally well dressed.  Visiting aspiring little princesses and princes can gain inspiration from the new prince's ancestors at the new Fashion Rules exhibition at the Palace, featuring dresses of the Queen, her sister Princess Margaret and Diana, the Princess of Wales.

The Duke of Cambridge took his first steps in public on the grounds of Kensington Palace.  A popular place for parents to take their kids to play is the Diana Memorial Playground.  It was inspired by J. M. Barrie's Peter Pan stories and features an enormous pirate ship.  Just a five-minute walk from Kensington Gardens, this is a must-visit for families.

He may be christened in a replica of an intricate Honiton lace and satin gown, from Queen Victoria's eldest daughter, which has been used as far back as 1841.  Prince William and his father were both christened wearing the original gown in the Music Room at Buckingham Palace, by the Archbishop of Canterbury. Travelers can visit Buckingham Palace, home to the baby's great grandmother, The Queen, through the summer.  A new special exhibition celebrates the Queen's Coronation 60 years ago, displaying the robes worn, the Diamond Diadem and even the personal invitation sent to four-year-old Prince Charles for the occasion—allowing visiting families to experience history first-hand! Open July 27 - September 29.

The Duke and Duchess's country house will be at Amner Hall in Norfolk, England.  The Royal Family spends Christmas just down the road at Sandringham, the Norfolk retreat of Her Majesty The Queen.  Open to the public, visitors have the opportunity to personally experience what makes the estate such a special place including the house and exquisite gardens. Sandringham's Country Park offers 600 acres of beautiful land—plenty of ground for all members of the family to explore and enjoy. There are also holiday cottages for visitors who want to vacation on the grounds. Open March 30 - November 3, except July 27 - August 2.

Anglesey, Wales where the couple began their married life together is an ideal backdrop for a family vacation.  Pristine beaches such as Newborough are great splash pads for families.  The White Eagle pub, where the couple has been known to dine, offers scenic views and a yard for children to play.  Kate might want to pick up some cute outfits for her son at Tinkers and Belles in Beaumaris, a charming seaside town that is home to Beaumaris Castle.

Returning to Scotland where the couple met, the Earl and Countess of Strathearn, as the new parents are known in these parts, may want to dress their newborn in traditional Scottish wear. Little Legs Baby Kilts is a Glasgow-based company that specializes in making sure tiny ones can stay true to their Scottish heritage. When they decide it's time to take baby back to St Andrews to show him where his parents met, he can look the part!  The St Andrews Aquarium would be a great stop for family fun and learning.  Whether it's sharks, seals or penguins that catch your eye, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy here.

For press materials, photography and story ideas, www.visitbritain.com/mediaroom

SOURCE: VisitBritain

For further information:

Cathy Stapells
PR & Communications Manager - Canada
T: 416-646-6676
E: [email protected]