Hampton Court Palace

For something truly stunning to admire, try and find the decorated windows, like the arched window - you'll find them on the second-floor mezzanine! This baroque palace is truly magnificent and holds great treasures and architecture that are worth discovering!

Kids will love exploring the vast Tudor kitchens, where the hustle and bustle of preparing feasts for the King are brought to life.

Costumed guides demonstrate cooking techniques from the 16th century, and kids can learn about the daily life of kitchen workers in Tudor times.

If you're looking for something really interesting, visit the Haunted Gallery... It got this name due to the horrible execution of Catherine Howard, one of Henry VIII's wives. After she was sentenced for adultery, which Anne Boleyn was also accused of, she ran through the gallery to plead innocence before being taken back to the rooms while screaming. It's said that her ghost can still be seen running, screaming for mercy...

Hampton Court Palace Formal Gardens

With 60 acres of gardens to explore and discover, it's the perfect outdoor day out with the family. It's also within a loop of the River Thames! Explore the epic Magic Garden is a specially designed playground where kids can come face to face with mysterious mythical beasts, storm battlements, and besiege the towers. Special quiet sessions are also offered throughout the year for those with Autism or sensory needs and their carers.

Explore the Kitchen Garden that fed the Royal household throughout the 18th century. It was originally built on Henry VIII's tiltyard for William III and Mary II in the 17th century. It's also one of the most active gardens, with a cycle of fruit and vegetables grown all year round. The iconic garden is also home to the world's largest hedge maze and the world's longest vine - a place for unlimited adventures! 

The Privy Garden has been around since Henry VIII and was once a private garden. It's now been restored to its former glory with the original plant varieties and hornbeam bower and statues standing proudly. But the highlight of Hampton Court Palace is the Pond Gardens. With original fish ponds made for Henry VIII as the main purpose when built, Mary II transformed the pond yards into sunken gardens. This was so she could display her beautiful, vibrant and rare exotic plant collection!

Discover an abundance of colourful flowers and a wide range of roses in the Rose Garden! With a display of stunning rose varieties that have been developed for over 80 years, you can enjoy that sweet smell as you wander through. During the summer, it's the place to be, as it's in full bloom and attracts various wildlife. But that's not all, you can also spot late-blooming hydrangeas and a multitude of annuals, biennials and perennials that add even more vibrancy.

From the Privy Garden to the Pond Gardens, all of Hampton Court Palace's formal gardens provide such spectacular views that you are sure to be blown away. Why not find the East Front Gardens and settle down for a picnic? It's the perfect spot! 

See who emerges from the world-famous maze that has been baffling visitors for over 300 years! With a mixture of unicursal and single paths, you may get a little dizzy! But it's worth it when you complete the maze and reach the centre!

Seasonal Events

Hampton Court Palace holds some amazing events throughout the year! From the annual Tudor Joust, where knights in full armour compete in thrilling tournaments, to the Hampton Court Palace Food Festival! Or perhaps you'd like to know more about the Indian Army soldiers who camped at Hampton Court Palace in the 20th century through unseen artefacts and personal stories. 

The palace also features interactive exhibits where kids can try on Tudor costumes!

Why We Suggest Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is a fantastic day out for families, offering a perfect mix of history, adventure, and fun. From exploring Henry's Great Hall and Tudor Kitchens to the Tudor court and playing in the magnificent gardens.

Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique and engaging experience, Hampton Court Palace promises a day filled with discovery and delight.