HILLINGDON school children were among those given the royal treatment by winning a chance to explore Kensington Palace last week.

Pupils from Yeading Junior School were among the champions of the London-wide Time Explorers Challenge, which encouraged primary school pupils to connect with Victorian History.

The contest was run by the Historic Royal Palaces heritage charity, which helped history come to life for the young contestants by focusing on the life and home of a young Queen Victoria.

The charity’s learning and engagement spokeswoman Catherine Jones said: “This year’s Victoria-themed challenge has seen hundreds of children across London unleash their imagination.

“We’re thrilled with the results!”

More than 350 pupils visited the palace and took part in traditional Victorian sports such as quoits, diablo and cup and ball.

The overall winners of the contest were children from Kennington’s Primary Academy, in Ockendon, Thurrock, for their varied contributions, including a play about the young Queen’s life and hosting a pop-up museum.

The event was topped off with Queen Victoria herself awarding trophies and certificates for art, design and storytelling, proving that these efforts were fit for a Queen.