The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, celebrated as one of the most outstanding active stables in the world, marks its 200th anniversary this month.

This venue was the site where Queen Victoria established an educational institution, Queen Mary held a charming tea gathering, and Queen Elizabeth filmed her Christmas message alongside her beloved pets and Sir David Attenborough.

Within its walls are the carriages employed by the Royal Family, including the notoriously uncomfortable Gold State Coach utilized during coronation ceremonies.

Constructed in 1825 for King George IV at a cost of £65,000 (equivalent to £7.8 million today), the stables have, unlike the main palace, welcomed visitors in various capacities throughout their history.

Queen Elizabeth II characterized the Mews as “a quaint village that is part of Buckingham Palace.” It serves as an operational segment of the palace, where horses and humans coexist and collaborate, with carriages and vehicles assisting the royal duties.

Here are some snapshots of the Royal Mews captured over the last two centuries.