Hampton Court Palace travel guide

Hampton Court Palace, a stunning edifice in Kingston upon Thames, is steeped in a rich history that traces back to the 16th century. The palace was originally built for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, a favourite of King Henry VIII, in 1515. However, when Wolsey fell from favour, the palace became the property of the King, who expanded it.

Over the centuries, Hampton Court Palace has seen a succession of royal occupants and has been the setting for many historical events. It underwent significant changes during the reign of William III and Mary II in the late 17th century, with architect Sir Christopher Wren commissioned to rebuild and modernise the palace. Despite these changes, the palace retains much of its Tudor style.

Today, Hampton Court Palace stands not only as a testament to architectural brilliance and royal history but also as a major tourist attraction. The palace, with its beautiful gardens, historic real tennis court, and world-famous maze, offers a captivating peek into England's past.

A key feature of Hampton Court Palace is its unique blend of two distinct architectural styles. The original Tudor sections, built by Cardinal Wolsey in the early 16th century, present ornate brickwork and tall, twisted chimneys. In contrast, the later Baroque section, added by Sir Christopher Wren on the orders of William III and Mary II, offers grand, symmetrical facades and elaborate interiors.

The Palace is also renowned for its world-famous maze, one of the oldest surviving hedge mazes in the UK. Another significant feature is the Great Vine, the world's largest grape vine, planted in 1768. The palace's stunning gardens, which stretch over 60 acres, feature a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden and an exotic plant garden.

Inside, the palace is filled with unique treasures, such as the Great Hall with its stunning hammer-beam roof, and the Chapel Royal with its exquisite blue and gold ceiling. The palace also houses a vast collection of Renaissance paintings.

The iconic Hampton Court Palace, situated at Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU, UK, stands as a must-visit landmark in Kingston upon Thames. Its location within the vibrant London Borough of Richmond upon Thames offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of England.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Kingston upon Thames, as a town, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Hampton Court Palace shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to this town.

Getting to Hampton Court Palace is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Kingston upon Thames, England.

If you're arriving by air , you'll arrive at Gatwick Airport, which is approximately 18.8 miles (30.2 km) from the town center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Hampton Court Palace.

If you're already in Kingston upon Thames, the journey to Hampton Court Palace is an adventure in itself. Located 1.4 miles (2.3 km) from central Kingston upon Thames, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Hampton Court Palace is situated at Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU, UK, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in England. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Hampton Court Palace.

The best time to explore Hampton Court Palace is during the spring and summer months, from late March to early September when the palace's verdant gardens are in full bloom and the weather is typically warm and dry. These are also the most popular times to visit, so be prepared for larger crowds and longer wait times. However, the palace's outdoor events, such as the Hampton Court Palace Festival and Flower Show, which take place in June and July respectively, make the increased crowd levels worth it. The autumn months of September and October also offer a unique experience with less crowded spaces and the palace's gardens showcasing a stunning display of autumn hues. During winter, although the weather is colder, you can enjoy the palace's festive Christmas activities, including the Ice Rink and Festive Fayre. Regardless of the time of your visit, it's recommended to arrive early in the day to maximize your time exploring the palace and its gardens.

When preparing for your visit to Hampton Court Palace, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Hampton Court Palace in this section, with options for all travel types—carefully selected from the biggest selection of hotels and places to stay in Kingston upon Thames.

Start each day with a breathtaking view, setting the perfect tone for your exploration of Hampton Court Palace. With round-the-clock customer support, best price guarantees, and top-rated accommodations, you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands.

One of the top spots to explore is All Saints Church, Kingston upon Thames. All Saints Church, Kingston upon Thames is located in 14-16 Market Pl, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1JP, UK.

Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip. You can visit it at Wheatfield Way, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2PS, UK.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Kingston upon Thames below to discover even more incredible places to visit.