Hampton Court Palace and Maze
Hampton Court Palace, Surrey
Suitable for 0-99 years
Literally 'fit for a king', it's no surprise that this enormous and lavish complex was the favorite residence of the decadent Henry VIII. With costumed guides, sprawling grounds, and elegant apartments to ogle, it'll quite likely be a favourite of your family as well if you buy these Hampton Court Palace tickets!
Hampton Court Palace hasn't been inhabited by the British Royal Family since the 18th Century, but when it was, it was a hotbed of activity. This sprawling red-brick royal palace on the banks of the Thames was the center of royal life. Nowadays, it's a remarkable opportunity to touch the lives of royals and aristocrats who frequented it.
Be forewarned, your Hampton Court Palace tickets give you access to over 60 acres of gardens, six acres of Tudor and Baroque buildings, and 750 acres of parkland, so it's easy to get overwhelmed.
If you need some places to get started, make sure you see the gigantic kitchens (to feed Henry VIII's notoriously large appetites), the double-hammer-beamed Great Hall where Shakespeare's company – the ‘King’s Men’ – performed for King James I, and the Cumberland Art Gallery, with works from Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and more.
Also worth your time on any visit are the Royal Apartments. There are six thematic walking tours you can take to wind your way through. Information for the self-guided tours is sparse, so pick up an audio guide, or else hop one of the free walking tours with a period-costumed historian.
If the weather's nice allow some time to roam the grounds: there are 60 acres of garden and 750 acres of parkland. The garden maze, commissioned by William III in 1700, is a welcome and challenging diversion.
Prices from:
Adults: £27.20
Children (5-15): £13.60
Senior (60-99): £21.80
Youth (16/17): £13.60
Open Daily: 10:00-17:30
Refunds are not possible for this ticket
Rescheduling is not possible for this ticket.
Address and Contact Info
Hampton Court Palace
East Molesey
Surrey
KT8 9AU
Nearest Station: Hampton Court
Nearest Park: Cigarette Island Park