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 Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, the iconic 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 in 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 the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Science Museum, Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gardens, Natural History Museum, and Kyoto 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 located in Kensington, England, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Gatwick Airport is approximately 24.67 miles (39.69 km) away from Kensington. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the town, where Kensington Palace is located.

If you’re already in Kensington, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the palace. The exact address of the attraction is Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, UK, England.

You can also rent a car and drive to Kensington Palace. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Kensington Palace and other top attractions in Kensington at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set 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.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kensington and top attractions like Kensington Palace with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Kensington Palace and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Kensington, England, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind palace in England.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Kensington by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the town. With the town's most famous attractions like the stunning Kensington Palace just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Kensington.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Kensington Palace below.

Kensington offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the town has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Kensington, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Science Museum, Royal Albert Hall, and Kensington Gardens.

Science Museum is a bucket-list science museum and top attraction in Kensington, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 57,170 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 Royal Albert Hall. This is just like Science Museum, one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 31,525 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this concert hall is Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP, UK.

Kensington Gardens is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Kensington. This public garden and top attraction in Kensington has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,134 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Kensington Gardens creating core memories of the town. This attraction is located at the address of London, UK.

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