Visit Kensington Palace — discover royal apartments, fashion exhibitions, and 300 years of royal history in beautiful Kensington Gardens.

Visit Kensington Palace London

Once the childhood home of Queen Victoria and the residence of Diana, Princess of Wales, Kensington Palace remains one of London’s most beloved royal landmarks. Set within the serene beauty of Kensington Gardens, it offers visitors an intimate look at life behind palace doors — from Baroque splendour to modern royal stories.

A place of both elegance and emotion, it tells the story of Britain’s monarchy across generations.

A Royal Home Since the 1600s

Originally a modest Jacobean mansion known as Nottingham House, the palace was purchased in 1689 by King William III and Queen Mary II. The couple sought a healthier home away from the River Thames, and their favourite architect, Sir Christopher Wren, transformed the building into a royal residence.

Over the centuries, it became home to many members of the royal family, including Queen Anne, George I, and Queen Victoria, who was born here in 1819.

Even today, parts of the palace serve as private apartments for members of the royal household.

The State Apartments
The King’s State Apartments

Designed for King George I and II, these rooms display 18th-century luxury at its finest. Highlights include:

The Presence Chamber, where courtiers once gathered for royal audiences.

The Privy Chamber, filled with portraits of European monarchs.

The King’s Staircase, decorated with vivid murals of guards and courtiers, painted by William Kent.

The Queen’s State Apartments

Created for Queen Mary II, these rooms are lighter and more intimate. Visitors can see her private rooms, where she collected porcelain, embroidery, and books.

Victoria: A Royal Childhood

One of the palace’s most popular exhibits, Victoria: A Royal Childhood, brings to life the early years of Queen Victoria. Born and raised within these walls, she famously learned at the age of 18 that she had become queen — in her own bedroom at Kensington Palace.

The exhibition features personal items such as toys, letters, and her first diary, offering a rare glimpse into the girl who became one of Britain’s most influential monarchs.

Diana: Her Fashion Story

A highlight for many visitors is the exhibition Diana: Her Fashion Story, celebrating the timeless elegance of Diana, Princess of Wales. It showcases her most iconic gowns, sketches from designers, and photographs that trace her transformation into a global style icon.

Each outfit tells a story — from official royal tours to charity galas — revealing how Diana used fashion as a form of self-expression and diplomacy.

The Gardens and Grounds

Surrounding the palace are the Kensington Gardens, once part of Hyde Park and now among London’s most peaceful green spaces. Highlights include:

The Sunken Garden, planted with white flowers in memory of Princess Diana.

The Orangery, a graceful 18th-century building that now houses a restaurant.

The Cradle Walk, an arched walkway offering beautiful palace views.

In spring and summer, the gardens bloom with colour, framing the palace in floral elegance.

Things to Do Nearby

Kensington Palace sits in one of London’s most scenic districts, surrounded by art, culture, and history. Nearby attractions include:

Royal Albert Hall – Home to world-class concerts and events.

Victoria and Albert Museum – A treasure trove of art and design.

Science Museum – Interactive displays for all ages.

Hyde Park – Perfect for a walk or boat ride on the Serpentine.

Kensington High Street – Boutiques, cafés, and galleries.

Plan Your Visit

Managed by: Historic Royal Palaces

Entry: Paid admission; free for members.

Location: Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX.

Transport: Nearest stations – High Street Kensington or Queensway.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10am–6pm (last entry 5pm).

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

For more information, please visit Official Kensington Palace website

Why Visit Kensington Palace?

The Kensington Palace London experience offers a unique mix of grandeur and intimacy. Here, royal history isn’t just told — it’s felt, through the spaces where monarchs lived, loved, and shaped the nation’s story.

From Queen Victoria’s childhood rooms to Princess Diana’s timeless legacy, the palace connects the past and present in one of London’s most elegant settings.

Walk in the footsteps of royalty — and discover the living history of Kensington Palace.