Kensington Palace, London
Explore the historic royal residence of Kensington Palace with its grand state rooms, immersive exhibitions, and tranquil gardens in London’s Kensington Gardens.
Kensington Palace, nestled within the verdant Kensington Gardens in London, is a historic royal residence that has housed British monarchs since the late 17th century. Visitors can explore opulent state apartments, immersive exhibitions including royal fashion and childhood rooms of Queen Victoria, and tranquil gardens featuring the Sunken Garden and the Diana, Princess of Wales statue. The palace offers a rich glimpse into royal heritage alongside beautiful outdoor spaces.
A brief summary to Kensington Palace
- Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX, GB
- +443333206000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred entry time and avoid queues, especially during peak seasons.
- Pick up the free audio guide at the entrance to enrich your visit with detailed stories and historical context.
- Allow two to three hours to fully explore the palace interiors, exhibitions, and gardens at a comfortable pace.
- Visit the Sunken Garden to see the beautiful floral displays and the statue of Diana, Princess of Wales, a serene outdoor highlight.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to High Street Kensington Station on the Circle or District lines, approximately a 10-minute walk to Kensington Palace. Frequent services run throughout the day, with tickets costing around £2.50–£5 depending on zones.
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Bus
Bus routes 9, 27, 28, 49, and 70 serve stops near Kensington Gardens, with a short walk to the palace. Buses run regularly with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off near the palace entrance. Travel time varies by traffic but typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares starting around £10.
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Walking
If staying nearby, a walk through Kensington Gardens offers a scenic approach to the palace, taking approximately 15–25 minutes over flat terrain. The paths are accessible and well maintained.
Kensington Palace location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Kensington Palace
A Royal Residence Steeped in History
Kensington Palace has been a significant royal residence since William III and Mary II made it their official home in 1689. Originally a Jacobean mansion, it was transformed into a regal palace that has witnessed centuries of British monarchy. The palace is renowned for its grand architecture and historical significance, serving as the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. Its walls hold stories of monarchs, royal families, and pivotal moments in British history.Exquisite State Apartments and Exhibitions
Visitors gain access to the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, showcasing lavish Georgian interiors, fine art, and royal artifacts. The Queen’s State Apartments offer a more intimate glimpse into royal life with rooms like the Queen’s Dining Room and Gallery. Special exhibitions, such as 'Victoria: A Royal Childhood' and 'Dress Codes,' display royal fashion treasures and personal artifacts, enriching the visitor experience. The Jewel Room presents exquisite jewelry commissioned by Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert.Immersive Visitor Experience with Audio Guides
An included audio guide enhances the visit by narrating the palace’s history, architecture, and the lives of its royal residents, bringing the stories vividly to life. Visitors can also attend daily talks called 'History Bites' that delve deeper into various palace-related topics. The recommended visit duration is two to three hours, allowing ample time to explore the exhibitions and state rooms at a leisurely pace.Serene Gardens and Iconic Outdoor Spaces
Surrounding the palace, Kensington Gardens provide a peaceful retreat with beautifully maintained floral displays and landscaped grounds. The Sunken Garden, a highlight, features elegant flower beds and the poignant statue of Diana, Princess of Wales. The gardens are free to enter and offer a tranquil complement to the palace’s rich indoor heritage.Visitor Amenities and Practical Information
Kensington Palace includes amenities such as The Orangery restaurant and Palace Café, both open during palace hours for refreshments and light meals. The palace operates Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 16:00 (last entry 15:00), and is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission costs approximately £24.70 for adults and £12.40 for children under 16, with free entry for members and children under five. Tickets include access to all public areas and exhibitions.Significance and Cultural Legacy
As a living symbol of British heritage, Kensington Palace continues to captivate visitors with its blend of royal history, art, culture, and natural beauty. It remains a cherished site for understanding the monarchy’s past and present, offering a uniquely immersive experience in the heart of London’s royal landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Statue
0.1 km
Discover the Queen Victoria Statue in Kensington Gardens, a stunning tribute to history surrounded by beautiful landscapes in the heart of London.
Kensington Palace Green
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kensington Palace Green, a historical site and park in London, rich in royal history and natural elegance.
Kensington War Memorial
0.4 km
Explore the Kensington War Memorial, a heartfelt tribute in London honoring the sacrifices of brave soldiers throughout history.
Speke Monument
0.7 km
Explore the Speke Monument in Kensington Gardens, a historic tribute to the renowned explorer John Hanning Speke in the heart of London.
Notting Hill Gate
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant Notting Hill Gate in London, a cultural hotspot known for its colorful houses, bustling markets, and rich heritage.
Lancaster Gate
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Lancaster Gate, a picturesque haven in London perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
George Orwell Plaque
1.0 km
Explore the George Orwell Plaque on Portobello Road, a tribute to the literary icon and an integral part of London's cultural heritage.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.1 km
Explore the Edward Jenner Memorial in London's Kensington Gardens, a historical landmark commemorating the father of vaccination and medical innovation.
Space Apart Hotel
1.1 km
Discover the charm of London from the comfort of Space Apart Hotel, your home away from home in the heart of the city.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.1 km
Discover the architectural wonders and cultural gems of Cromwell Road, London’s vibrant hub of museums and modern design.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
1.1 km
Explore the Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great in London, a striking tribute to history, culture, and architectural beauty.
Sussex Gardens
1.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Sussex Gardens, a serene oasis in London’s bustling Tyburnia, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.3 km
Discover the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of St Peter's Church in Notting Hill, a true gem in London's cultural landscape.
St Augustine's Church
1.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a hidden gem in London's spiritual landscape.
Queen Victoria Monument
1.5 km
Discover the elegance of the Queen Victoria Monument, a historical landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Round Pond
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Round Pond in London, a peaceful lake surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for relaxation and nature walks.
Diana Memorial Playground
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens - a safe haven for children to play and explore amidst nature's beauty in London.
Notting Hill Bike tours
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant streets of Notting Hill with guided bike tours, uncovering history and charm in every pedal stroke.
Kensington Gardens
0.6 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historical richness of Kensington Gardens, a premier park in London, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
QUEENS skate dine bowl
0.7 km
Experience the excitement of ice skating, bowling, and dining all under one roof at Queens Skate Dine Bowl in London.
Clanricarde Gardens
0.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Clanricarde Gardens, a hidden oasis in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and peaceful retreats.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant charm of Notting Hill Hillgate Village, where colorful streets, eclectic shops, and rich culture await every traveler.
The Albert Memorial
0.7 km
Discover the grandeur of the Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens, a stunning tribute to Prince Albert amidst London's rich history and beautiful scenery.
The Gate Picturehouse
0.8 km
Experience the magic of cinema at The Gate Picturehouse, Notting Hill's premier venue for independent films and classic blockbusters.
Sambourne House
0.8 km
Step back in time at Sambourne House, a beautifully preserved Victorian home in London, showcasing the charm and elegance of the era.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.8 km
Explore Queen Caroline's Temple in Kensington Gardens, a stunning monument steeped in royal history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Royal Albert Hall
0.8 km
Experience the grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall, London's iconic concert venue offering world-class performances in a stunning architectural masterpiece.
Imperial Cinema
0.9 km
Discover the Imperial Cinema: A unique cultural haven in South Kensington blending cinematic experiences with the rich heritage of a Hindu temple.
Serpentine Gallery
0.9 km
Explore London's Serpentine Gallery, a contemporary art gem in Kensington Gardens featuring innovative exhibitions and a delightful café experience.
the Design Museum
1.0 km
Explore the Design Museum in London, where innovation meets creativity in a breathtaking architectural setting, showcasing the best of contemporary design.
Essential places to dine
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street – where every dish tells a story.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.3 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Prezzo Italian Restaurant Kensington - A must-visit culinary gem in London offering delightful flavors and inviting ambiance.
Zuaya London
0.3 km
Discover authentic Latin American cuisine at Zuaya London, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition in a chic setting.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.4 km
Savor authentic Egyptian flavors at Alexandrie Restaurant in Kensington – where every dish tells a story.
Dishoom Kensington
0.5 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in a charming setting at Dishoom Kensington - where tradition meets modernity.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.5 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Akira Restaurant in Japan House London - where tradition meets modernity in every bite.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.5 km
Experience the elegance of British dining at The Ivy Kensington Brasserie, where delightful cuisine meets sophisticated ambiance in London.
Grato
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Grato in Kensington Square—where every dish tells a story and every bite delights.
The Shed
0.6 km
Experience modern British cuisine at The Shed, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry in London's vibrant dining scene.
Il Portico
1.1 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Il Portico on Kensington High Street—where every meal is a celebration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.2 km
Discover Cocotte Notting Hill – where modern French cuisine meets cozy family-friendly dining in London's vibrant neighborhood.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.3 km
Experience the best of Australian cuisine at Granger and Co., where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors in the heart of Notting Hill.
Gold
1.4 km
Discover Gold: A Modern European Dining Gem on Portobello Road Offering Unique Flavors and Rustic Charm.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.4 km
Experience unparalleled modern British cuisine at Core by Clare Smyth – where culinary artistry meets elegance in London's vibrant dining scene.
Town House Kensington
1.5 km
Discover the essence of British cuisine at Town House Kensington - where tradition meets sophistication in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kensington Palace Shop
0.0 km
Explore the Kensington Palace Shop for exclusive royal-themed gifts and timeless souvenirs in the heart of London’s royal heritage.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in Kensington, a vibrant clothing shop offering trendy apparel and unique lifestyle products for the modern shopper.
Good
0.3 km
Discover unique designer and vintage fashion treasures at Good Clothing Shop in London, where every piece tells a story.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs and mementos at London Souvenir Kensington, where every item tells a story.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Explore Jigsaw in Kensington for a unique blend of contemporary women's fashion and stylish accessories, perfect for every fashion lover.
The London Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs at The London Shop, a charming gift store in Queensway, London, offering treasures to remember your visit.
Notting hill store
0.8 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
0.9 km
Explore the Oxfam Shop on Kensington High Street for unique second-hand treasures that support global charity efforts.
The gift store
0.9 km
Explore The Gift Store in London for unique souvenirs and charming gifts that capture the essence of the city.
Appletree boutique
0.9 km
Explore unique fashion and style at Appletree Boutique in Notting Hill, where every piece tells a story of individuality.
the Design Museum Shop
1.0 km
Explore a curated selection of design-inspired gifts and unique souvenirs at the Design Museum Shop, a must-visit for design enthusiasts in London.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
1.1 km
Explore the Design Museum Shop in Kensington for unique gifts and contemporary design treasures that reflect modern creativity and style.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
1.1 km
Explore the Octavia Foundation in Kensington for unique gifts, antiques, and books while supporting local community initiatives.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.2 km
Explore Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road for unique vintage treasures and charming souvenirs that capture the spirit of London.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Portobello Gifts Shop in Notting Hill, a charming shop reflecting the essence of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piano Kensington
0.3 km
Experience the allure of live piano music and exquisite dining at Piano Kensington, a sophisticated gem in London's Royal Garden Hotel.
AMARO BAR - London
0.3 km
Discover the art of cocktail making at Amaro Bar, London’s premier destination for innovative drinks and vibrant nightlife.
Stables Bar
0.3 km
Discover the elegance of Stables Bar in London, where innovative cocktails and a sophisticated lounge ambiance await your visit.
Prince of Wales
0.4 km
Experience the charm of Kensington at the Prince of Wales - a cozy pub offering authentic Thai cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Discover the elegance of High Spirit Cocktail Bar, where innovative mixology meets a chic atmosphere in the heart of Kensington, London.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
0.5 km
Discover The Churchill Arms in Kensington, a charming pub and Thai restaurant famed for its stunning floral displays and welcoming atmosphere.
The Builders Arms
0.6 km
Experience authentic British cuisine and a lively atmosphere at The Builders Arms, Kensington's charming pub and restaurant.
Bar 190
0.8 km
Experience the elegance of Bar 190 in South Kensington, where expertly crafted cocktails and a stylish atmosphere await every visitor.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
0.8 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Henderson Bar & Kitchen in London, where vibrant atmosphere meets exquisite cuisine and refreshing beverages.
The Sun In Splendour
1.0 km
Discover The Sun In Splendour, a charming pub in Notting Hill, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a cozy atmosphere for the perfect London experience.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.4 km
Discover a lively cocktail haven in South Kensington, where unique drinks and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Walmer Castle
1.4 km
Experience the charm of British pub culture at The Walmer Castle in Notting Hill, where delicious food and lively ambiance await.
Naked & Famous Bar
1.4 km
Discover Naked & Famous Bar, a vibrant cocktail haven on Portobello Road, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts seeking unique drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Earl of Lonsdale
1.4 km
Experience the essence of London pub culture at The Earl of Lonsdale, a cozy gastropub with delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.4 km
Experience the charm of The Hereford Arms, a traditional pub in South Kensington offering classic British dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
