Kensington Palace: A Royal London Residence Steeped in History
Explore centuries of royal history and stunning gardens at Kensington Palace, a cherished London landmark and former home of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana.
Nestled within the tranquil Kensington Gardens in London, Kensington Palace has been a royal residence for over 300 years. Visitors can explore the historic State Apartments, discover exhibitions like 'Victoria: A Royal Childhood' and 'Diana: Her Fashion Story,' and stroll through the beautifully maintained Sunken Garden. The palace offers a rich insight into British monarchy history, with personal artifacts, royal wardrobes, and exquisite interiors.
A brief summary to Kensington Palace
- Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX, GB
- +443333206000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred entry time and avoid queues.
- Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the palace interiors and gardens.
- Pick up the free audio guide at the entrance for an immersive historical experience.
- Visit the Sunken Garden to see the beautiful floral displays and the statue of Diana, Princess of Wales.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Circle or District Line to High Street Kensington station, approximately 10-15 minutes walk to Kensington Palace. The station is well connected but can be busy during peak hours. Tickets cost £2.50-£6 depending on zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Kensington Gardens, including routes 9, 27, and 52. Buses run frequently, with a journey time of 20-30 minutes from central London. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.75 per ride.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Kensington Palace takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £10 to £20. Note that parking near the palace is limited and not recommended.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking through Kensington Gardens to the palace is a pleasant option, taking 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible.
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
Historical Roots and Royal Legacy
Kensington Palace has served as a royal residence since the late 17th century, originally transformed into a palace by William III and Mary II after their coronation in 1689. Over the centuries, it has been home to many notable royals, including Queen Victoria, who was born and raised here. The palace’s walls echo the stories of British monarchy, from intimate private chambers to grand state rooms used for official functions.Architectural Grandeur and Interior Highlights
The palace features two main collections of state apartments: the King’s State Apartments, designed for official audiences and ceremonies, and the Queen’s State Apartments, which offer a more homely atmosphere with rooms where Queen Mary II entertained and relaxed. Visitors can admire exquisite tapestries, fine art, and royal furnishings that have been carefully preserved. The Jewel Room displays commissioned gems for Queen Victoria, while special exhibitions showcase personal items such as Queen Victoria’s wedding dress and Princess Diana’s iconic fashion pieces.Immersive Exhibitions and Royal Stories
Among the palace’s most captivating experiences are the exhibitions 'Victoria: A Royal Childhood,' which explores the early life of the future queen through her childhood rooms and personal artifacts, and 'Diana: Her Fashion Story,' highlighting the style and impact of the beloved Princess of Wales. These exhibits provide a unique glimpse into the lives behind the monarchy, enriched by detailed storytelling and historical context.Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
Surrounding Kensington Palace are the expansive Kensington Gardens, a serene and beautifully landscaped park open to the public for free. The Sunken Garden, a meticulously designed floral display, is a highlight, featuring the statue of Diana, Princess of Wales. Visitors often find the gardens a peaceful retreat, perfect for leisurely strolls or quiet reflection amidst ornamental flower beds, a lake, and the nearby Albert Memorial.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
The palace is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 16:00 during the winter months, with last entry at 15:00. Admission grants access to all public areas, including the palace and gardens, with tickets priced around £20 for adults and £10 for children under 16. An audio guide is included to enhance the visit, offering engaging narratives about the palace’s history and inhabitants. The on-site shop and café provide additional amenities to complete the visit.Continuing Royal Significance and Cultural Heritage
Though no longer a primary royal residence, Kensington Palace remains a symbol of British heritage and monarchy. It continues to host special exhibitions and seasonal events, such as festive displays inspired by Queen Victoria’s seaside Christmases. The palace’s blend of history, art, and royal tradition makes it a compelling destination for those interested in the cultural fabric of London and the United Kingdom.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kensington War Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Speke Monument
0.7 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
George Orwell Plaque
1.0 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.1 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Space Apart Hotel
1.1 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.1 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Sussex Gardens
1.3 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.3 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Queen Victoria Monument
1.5 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.5 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
37 Thurloe St
1.5 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
The Hole in the Wall
1.5 km
Uncover the historical charm of The Hole in the Wall, a hidden landmark in London that offers a unique glimpse into the city's past.
Sussex Mansions
1.5 km
Discover the elegance of Sussex Mansions in South Kensington, a charming apartment building near London's best attractions and cultural hotspots.
The Old Police House
1.6 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Empire House
1.6 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queen Victoria Statue
0.1 km
A majestic marble statue of Queen Victoria by her daughter, marking the birthplace and childhood home of one of Britain’s most iconic monarchs.
Kensington Palace Green
0.1 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Round Pond
0.3 km
Historic ornamental lake in Kensington Gardens, home to model yachts and diverse wildlife, set against the iconic backdrop of Kensington Palace.
Kensington High St
0.4 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Diana Memorial Playground
0.4 km
A magical, inclusive Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, offering imaginative play and adventure for children of all abilities.
Notting Hill Bike tours
0.6 km
Discover London’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods on a safe, fun, and engaging bike tour through Notting Hill and beyond.
Kensington Gardens
0.6 km
Explore Kensington Gardens, a royal London oasis blending historic grandeur, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly adventures across 265 acres of green space.
QUEENS skate dine bowl
0.7 km
London’s oldest year-round ice rink, bowling lanes, and vibrant dining combine for nonstop fun at QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl on Queensway.
Clanricarde Gardens
0.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Clanricarde Gardens, a hidden gem in London, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature in the bustling city.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
0.7 km
Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
The Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and gilded grandeur.
Notting Hill Gate
0.8 km
Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
The Gate Picturehouse
0.8 km
Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Sambourne House
0.8 km
Step into Sambourne House, a Victorian treasure showcasing the art, design, and life of Punch’s celebrated cartoonist in the heart of Kensington.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.8 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical summerhouse in Kensington Gardens, celebrating Queen Caroline’s artistic and landscape legacy.
Essential places to dine
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.3 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
0.3 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Dishoom Kensington
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.5 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Grato
0.5 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
The Shed
0.6 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Il Portico
1.1 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.1 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.2 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Gold
1.4 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.4 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kensington Palace Shop
0.0 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Good
0.3 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.4 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
The London Shop
0.8 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
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
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
The gift store
0.9 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Appletree boutique
0.9 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
the Design Museum Shop
1.0 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
1.1 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
1.1 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.2 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
1.2 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piano Kensington
0.3 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
AMARO BAR - London
0.3 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Stables Bar
0.3 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
Prince of Wales
0.4 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
0.5 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Builders Arms
0.6 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Bar 190
0.8 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
0.8 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Sun In Splendour
1.0 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.4 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Walmer Castle
1.4 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
Naked & Famous Bar
1.4 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
1.4 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.4 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Notting Hill Arts Club
0.7 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Metric
0.8 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Dolce Night Club , London
1.5 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
1.6 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
The Globe
1.6 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
The Duke of Wellington
1.6 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
Ricco London
1.7 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Subteranian
2.1 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Lost In Disco
3.0 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Carwash Nightclub
3.1 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
LUXX CLUB LONDON
3.1 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
3.2 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Cuckoo Club
3.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly