Kensington Palace travel guide

Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Kensington Palace

Discover for yourself why 27,000 people have rated this incredible sight 4.4 out of 5 stars, and prepare to be spellbound by its wonders.

A visit to Kensington Palace is an essential part of any trip to Kensington, England.

Kensington Palace is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-18:00.

Make sure to add a visit to Kensington Palace, one of Kensington's top attractions, to your travel itinerary in England for an unforgettable experience.

History of Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace, with its regal façade and lush gardens, is a jewel in England's historical crown. Originally a simple two-story Jacobean mansion known as Nottingham House, it was purchased by William and Mary in 1689. The couple commissioned Sir Christopher Wren, a renowned architect of the time, to expand the mansion into a fitting royal residence.

The palace became a favoured home for many monarchs over the centuries. Queen Victoria, born at Kensington Palace, lived there until her ascension to the throne in 1837. Today, it remains a residence for the British Royal Family, while also serving as a museum. The palace's exhibits, ranging from Queen Victoria's childhood rooms to the fashion of Princess Diana, attract millions of visitors each year.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, Kensington Palace offers a unique glimpse into the past and present of the British monarchy.

Unique features of Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is not just a historical monument but a living palace housing the royal offices of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and other members of the royal family. This gives the palace a unique blend of past and present. The Sunken Garden, with its ornate fountains and vibrant flower displays, is another distinctive feature. It offers visitors a tranquil spot to enjoy the palace grounds. The King's State Apartments are a sight to behold, filled with stunning art, lavish decorations, and detailed stucco ceilings. Another unique feature is the 'Victoria Revealed' exhibition, held in the rooms where Queen Victoria was born and raised. It provides a personal insight into her life and reign. Lastly, the palace's orangery, built by Queen Anne in 1704, now serves as a sophisticated restaurant, allowing visitors to dine in a regal setting.

Located in Kensington, England

Located in the dynamic Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, the popular Kensington Palace is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Kensington or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through England.

Kensington is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Kensington offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Kensington and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Science Museum, Natural History Museum, the Design Museum, Kyoto Garden, and Chelsea Physic Garden.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Kensington has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Kensington, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in England!

How to get to Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Kensington, England. If you're flying in, Gatwick Airport is approximately 24.7 miles (39.7 km) away from Kensington. From there, you can easily reach Kensington Palace by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Kensington, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Kensington Palace, which is located 0.6 miles (1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Kensington Palace, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Kensington Palace!

Best time to visit Kensington Palace

The best time to explore Kensington Palace largely depends on your preference for weather and crowd levels. The Palace is open year-round, but the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons offer moderate temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. These periods present an ideal opportunity to wander through the blossoming Sunken Garden or marvel at the turning leaves in Kensington Gardens, enhancing your overall experience. Summer (June to August), despite being busier, hosts special events like open-air theatre performances and music concerts in the gardens. If you want to experience these unique activities, plan your visit accordingly. Remember, early morning visits are generally less crowded throughout the year. Lastly, the winter months can be enchanting with festive decorations adorning the Palace, but do prepare for colder weather. Regardless of when you visit, the grandeur of Kensington Palace promises a memorable journey through British royal history.

Kensington Palace travel plans

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Kensington Palace and other top attractions in Kensington than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Kensington include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Kensington Palace's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Kensington Palace and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind palace in England.

Top Kensington Palace travel plans

The easiest way to plan a holiday with a visit to Kensington Palace is to book a holiday package. With everything organized seamlessly for you, from accommodations to transportation, you can relax and focus solely on creating lasting memories at this top attraction in the town of Kensington.

Choose from vacations ranging from relaxing weekend getaways to exciting city breaks in Kensington, or embark on an adventurous road trip across multiple regions in England, all while immersing yourself in the wonders of Kensington Palace.

If you can extend your stay in England for a few more days, you’re in for a treat. Experience the best week and a half of your life with the 10-Day England City Break in London With Itinerary. Your itinerary will be filled with visits to top attractions like St James's Park, The British Museum, The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, and Leicester Square, in addition to recommendations for the best activities to join along your route. You’ll return home with a camera gallery full of memories from your iconic trip across England.

Enjoy the convenience of having all accommodations, transportation, and activities taken care of before you arrive on your trip to England. All you need to do is pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable holiday in Kensington. Discover the best package holidays to England below.

Find

All Vacations in Kensington

See more

Where to stay near Kensington Palace

Conveniently explore Kensington Palace and plenty more captivating attractions in Kensington by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Kensington Palace and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Kensington has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Kensington Palace below.

Top hotels near Kensington Palace

Make the most of your visit to Kensington Palace by staying nearby at one of the top hotels in Kensington. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Kensington Palace, but you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy the excellent amenities and exceptional service provided by these accommodations.

For a delightful 3-star stay near Kensington Palace, check out Central Park Hotel, located only 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the attraction. This hotel has earned a remarkable 18,622 out of 5 stars from 3 guests. A stay at Central Park Hotel starts at approximately 189 EUR per night.

If a 4-star hotel is more your style, check out the chic Blakemore Hyde Park, only 0.6 miles (0.9 km) from the palace. With an outstanding 12,481 out of 5 stars from 4 satisfied guests, this hotel is one of the best-rated stays near Kensington Palace. One night at this hotel costs from 375 EUR per night.

For the ultimate luxury stay near Kensington Palace, the 5-star Royal Garden is a top choice, nestled just 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from Kensington Palace. With an impressive average rating of 12,481 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews, this remarkable hotel promises an unforgettable stay with rates starting at 330 EUR per night.

Explore all your options and find the best hotel in Kensington near the Kensington Palace below.

Find

All Hotels in Kensington

See more

Other top attractions in Kensington

Aside from Kensington Palace, Kensington is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Kensington, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Science Museum, Natural History Museum, and the Design Museum.

Science Museum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Kensington, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 66,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Science Museum is Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Kensington is Natural History Museum. Like Science Museum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 26,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, UK.

The Design Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Kensington. This museum and top attraction in Kensington has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 224-238 Kensington High St, London W8 6AG, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Kensington below.

Map of attractions in Kensington

Your next adventure is waiting for you in the town of Kensington. Explore the map to discover all the popular attractions you’ll visit on your unforgettable vacation in England.

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.