Kensington Palace travel guide

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.

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 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!

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!

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.

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.

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.