Visit Hampton Court Palace — explore Henry VIII’s Tudor kitchens, grand Baroque halls, and world-famous gardens by the River Thames.

Visit Hampton Court Palace London

Looking for a royal day out filled with history, splendour, and stories? The Hampton Court Palace in southwest London is one of Britain’s most magnificent historic residences. Once home to King Henry VIII, it blends Tudor drama, Baroque elegance, and centuries of royal intrigue.

From its red-brick courtyards to its riverside gardens, the palace offers a captivating journey through 500 years of royal life.

From Cardinal Wolsey to King Henry VIII

Hampton Court began as the lavish home of Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, chief minister to Henry VIII. Built around 1515, the palace showcased Wolsey’s power and taste. However, when he fell from royal favour, he gifted it to the king — a move that likely saved him from disgrace.

Henry expanded the palace into one of Europe’s finest courts. Here, he hosted banquets, tournaments, and royal weddings. The kitchens fed hundreds of courtiers daily, while the grand halls echoed with music and politics.

The Tudor Palace

Step through the Tudor Gatehouse into a world of pageantry and power. The Great Hall, with its hammer-beam roof and vibrant tapestries, remains one of the most breathtaking interiors in England.

Other highlights include:

Henry VIII’s Kitchens – Vast working kitchens where feasts for 1,000 guests were prepared.

The Chapel Royal – Still used for services today, with a spectacular blue and gold ceiling.

The Haunted Gallery – Said to echo with the footsteps of Catherine Howard, Henry’s ill-fated fifth wife.

Every corridor reveals stories of ambition, rivalry, and romance — the stuff of Tudor legend.

The Baroque Palace

In the late 1600s, William III and Mary II transformed part of Hampton Court into a Baroque masterpiece. They hired architect Sir Christopher Wren to rival the splendour of Versailles.

Visitors can explore:

The King’s and Queen’s State Apartments – Ornate rooms filled with fine art, gilded ceilings, and marble fireplaces.

The Great Staircase – Decorated with dramatic paintings by Antonio Verrio.

The Privy Garden – Perfectly restored to its 1702 layout, complete with symmetrical flowerbeds and statues.

This later wing contrasts beautifully with the Tudor red brick, showing how royal tastes evolved through time.

The Gardens and Grounds

Hampton Court’s 60 acres of gardens are as famous as the palace itself. You can wander through the Great Fountain Garden, the Rose Garden, or the Formal Privy Garden.

Don’t miss the Hampton Court Maze, the world’s oldest surviving hedge maze — a fun challenge for families and visitors of all ages.

In addition, the riverside walks offer stunning views of the palace and the River Thames, especially at sunset.

Family Activities and Events

Hampton Court is full of family-friendly attractions and seasonal events:

Costumed guides bring history to life through storytelling.

Ice skating rink in winter, set against the palace backdrop.

The Hampton Court Flower Show, held every summer.

Ghost tours, concerts, and outdoor theatre throughout the year.

There’s always something happening, making each visit a little different.

Things to Do Nearby

Extend your day out with nearby attractions:

Coombe Conduit: – Tudor water system that once supplied the palace.

Bushy Park – Royal park with deer, lakes, and cycle paths.

Kingston upon Thames – Historic riverside market town.

Richmond Park – Perfect for a scenic walk or picnic.

Plan Your Visit

Managed by: Historic Royal Palaces

Entry: Paid admission; discounts available for online booking.

Location: East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU.

Transport: 35 minutes from London Waterloo to Hampton Court Station, then a 5-minute walk.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10am–5.30pm (seasonal variations).

Facilities: Café, restaurant, shop, restrooms, and accessible routes.

For more information, please visit Official Hampton Court Palace website

Why Visit Hampton Court Palace?

The Hampton Court Palace London experience is where art, history, and architecture unite. Few places offer such a vivid window into royal life — from the splendour of Henry VIII’s feasts to the grace of William and Mary’s Baroque court.

Whether you come for Tudor intrigue, grand architecture, or beautiful gardens, Hampton Court is a royal treasure that never fails to impress.

Step through the gates and walk in the footsteps of kings and queens at Hampton Court Palace.