Hampton Court Palace: A Majestic Tudor and Baroque Royal Residence
Explore the grandeur of Henry VIII’s Tudor palace and the elegance of William III’s Baroque residence amid stunning gardens and the world’s oldest hedge maze.
Hampton Court Palace in East Molesey, Surrey, is a stunning historic royal palace famed for its Tudor grandeur and Baroque elegance. Explore Henry VIII’s Great Hall, vast Tudor kitchens, and the magnificent state apartments of William III and Mary II. Wander through 60 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, including the world’s oldest hedge maze and the enchanting Magic Garden. This iconic landmark offers a rich journey through over 500 years of English royal history.
A brief summary to Hampton Court Palace
- Hampton Ct Way, East Molesey, Molesey, KT8 9AU, GB
- +442031666000
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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
- Pre-book tickets online to secure entry and avoid queues, especially during peak seasons and special events.
- Allow at least three hours to fully explore the palace, gardens, maze, and exhibitions.
- Use the free multi-language audio guides included with admission for a richer understanding of the palace’s history.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the site is extensive with uneven floors and large gardens.
- Check for any conservation-related closures or route restrictions before your visit.
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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Train
Take the South Western Railway from London Waterloo to Hampton Court station, approximately 35-45 minutes. The station is a short 5-minute walk from the palace entrance. Trains run frequently but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. Return tickets cost around £10-£15.
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Car
Driving to Hampton Court Palace takes about 40-60 minutes from central London, depending on traffic. Paid parking is available near the palace but can be limited during peak times and special events. Use local signage for designated parking areas; charges apply.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve East Molesey, including routes 216 and 411 from Kingston and Richmond, with a journey time of 30-50 minutes depending on traffic. Buses stop within walking distance of the palace. Check current timetables for frequency and accessibility.
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Walking
If staying nearby in East Molesey or Hampton, the palace is accessible on foot with well-maintained paths. Walking times vary from 15 to 40 minutes depending on your starting point. Terrain is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors.
Hampton Court 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 Hampton Court Palace
Royal Origins and Tudor Grandeur
Hampton Court Palace began as a grand Tudor residence, famously associated with King Henry VIII. Built in the early 16th century, it was designed to impress visiting monarchs and dignitaries with its magnificent Great Hall, adorned with the exquisite Abraham tapestries and a spectacular hammer-beam roof. The palace’s vast Tudor kitchens reveal the scale and complexity of court life, where hundreds of servants worked to feed the king and his court. The Tudor World exhibition offers insight into the lives of the ordinary men and women who supported the royal household.Baroque Transformation and Later Royal Life
In the late 17th century, William III and Mary II commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to expand and transform the palace with Baroque architecture. This period introduced elegant state apartments, including the Presence Chamber with the king’s throne, and the grand Georgian Story rooms. The palace reflects a fascinating blend of Tudor and Baroque styles, illustrating the evolution of royal tastes and power over centuries. The Chapel Royal, the Haunted Gallery, and the Cumberland Gallery with artworks by masters like Caravaggio and Rembrandt add layers of cultural and historical richness.Gardens, Maze, and Outdoor Splendor
The palace is set within 60 acres of spectacular gardens that have evolved over centuries. The formal gardens are renowned for their seasonal displays, including 250,000 tulip bulbs in spring and the famous Great Vine, the largest grapevine in the world. The Hampton Court Maze, planted around 1700, is the oldest hedge maze globally and remains a beloved challenge for visitors. The Magic Garden, designed for children, and the Privy Garden offer diverse outdoor experiences, combining beauty, history, and family-friendly fun.Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance
Visitors can immerse themselves in royal history through guided tours, live historical reenactments, and multi-language audio guides that bring the palace’s stories to life. The palace hosts seasonal events such as the Festive Fayre, featuring over 100 artisan producers, enhancing the visitor experience. Conservation efforts are ongoing to preserve this heritage site, with some areas temporarily closed for restoration. The palace’s role as a filming location for popular TV shows adds a contemporary cultural layer to its historic significance.Accessibility and Amenities
Hampton Court Palace is equipped to welcome diverse visitors, with wheelchair access, mobility scooters, accessible toilets, and BSL-guided tours. On-site cafes provide a range of food and drink options, including dietary accommodations. The palace offers a visitor center, information boards, and well-maintained facilities to ensure a comfortable and engaging visit. Dogs are not permitted inside the palace or gardens except for trained assistance dogs.Legacy and Enduring Appeal
Spanning over five centuries, Hampton Court Palace stands as a testament to England’s royal heritage, architectural innovation, and garden design. Its blend of Tudor drama and Baroque elegance, combined with expansive gardens and cultural programming, makes it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, families, and garden lovers alike. The palace continues to inspire awe and curiosity, preserving the stories of monarchs and the lives intertwined with this iconic landmark.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Barmy Arms
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Church Street Twickenham
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Richmond Hill - Viewing Point
6.1 km
Britain's only parliamentary-protected view, where the Thames winds through timeless meadowland.
Richmond Bridge
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Richmond Bridge, London's oldest Thames crossing, blends 18th-century Palladian elegance with timeless riverside charm.
Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque
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Queen Charlotte's Cottage
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Discover the charming 18th-century rustic retreat of Queen Charlotte nestled in Kew Gardens' tranquil woodland and royal heritage.
Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford
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Chiswick House and Gardens
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All Saints' Church, Wimbledon
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A Victorian gem in Wimbledon, All Saints' Church blends architectural beauty with a rich history of community and faith.
Heathrow Airport
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Explore Heathrow Airport, a world-class international hub that combines travel convenience with unique shopping and dining experiences for every traveler.
Courtyard London Heathrow Airport
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Modern 4-star comfort with rooftop views and meeting spaces just minutes from Heathrow’s terminals 2 and 3.
Hogarth's House
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Christ Church Turnham Green
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St Anne's Well
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Discover the tranquil historic spring of St Anne's Well, a sacred site famed for its healing waters and medieval spiritual heritage.
Hammersmith Bridge
12.2 km
Victorian engineering marvel spanning the Thames with a turbulent history of bombs, closures, and remarkable resilience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hampton Court Park (Home Park)
1.2 km
Explore 750 acres of royal parkland with ancient deer herds, veteran trees, and serene views of Hampton Court Palace in a tranquil natural setting.
Bushy Park
1.4 km
Explore Bushy Park’s majestic deer, historic fountains, ancient trees, and serene gardens in London’s royal green sanctuary.
Hampton Court Palace Golf Club
1.6 km
Historic royal parkland golf course near Hampton Court Palace, blending scenic parkland and links-style play with elegant clubhouse amenities.
Landmark Arts Centre
2.9 km
Discover vibrant arts and historic charm at the Landmark Arts Centre, a cultural gem housed in a stunning 19th-century French Gothic former church in Teddington.
Teddington Riverside
3.0 km
Modern riverside living with stunning Thames views and historic charm in the heart of Teddington.
Christ Church, Surbiton Hill
3.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit at Christ Church, Surbiton Hill, a hidden gem in the heart of Surbiton, perfect for reflection and exploration.
Strawberry Hill House & Garden
3.9 km
Discover Strawberry Hill House, Britain’s finest Georgian Gothic Revival villa with enchanting gardens and rich literary heritage in Twickenham.
Pope's Grotto
4.3 km
Explore Alexander Pope’s enchanting 18th-century grotto, a sparkling mineral museum and poetic sanctuary on the banks of the Thames in Twickenham.
Twickenham Green
4.5 km
A tranquil village green in suburban Twickenham, perfect for community events, cricket, and peaceful relaxation amidst mature Horse Chestnut trees.
Eel Pie Island
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Discover Eel Pie Island, a small Thames island with a rich history, legendary 1960s music scene, and a vibrant community of artists and boatbuilders.
Ham House and Garden
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The Twickenham Museum
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Kneller Gardens
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A vibrant riverside park in Twickenham offering sports, playgrounds, and peaceful green spaces for families and nature lovers.
Coombe Conduit
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Explore Coombe Conduit, a Tudor-era waterworks marvel that supplied Hampton Court Palace for centuries, hidden within Kingston’s suburban landscape.
Orleans House Gallery
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Discover historic elegance and contemporary creativity at Orleans House Gallery, a free riverside art sanctuary in Twickenham.
Essential places to dine
Brouge Gastropub
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The Petersham Restaurant
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A Cena
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Le Taj
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Experience authentic and innovative Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Feltham at Le Taj.
Humble Thali
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The Bell On The Green - Pub, Bar and Indian Restaurant
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A vibrant Feltham pub blending classic British charm with authentic Indian flavors and a welcoming beer garden.
Man vs Food
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Bold American flavours and massive portions meet lively challenges in Isleworth’s vibrant Man Vs Food diner.
La Rosetta Restaurant
9.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality at La Rosetta, a beloved Brentford dining destination.
Plaza Premium Lounge London Heathrow (Departures, Terminal 4)
9.9 km
A spacious, modern lounge at Heathrow Terminal 4 offering diverse dining, apron views, and comfortable amenities for travelers seeking relaxation before departure.
Plaza Premium Lounge (Departures, Terminal 2) London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
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A stylish and comfortable retreat in Heathrow Terminal 2 offering quality food, drinks, and amenities for all travelers.
The Pheasant Inn & Restaurant Heathrow (over 18s only)
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A refined adult-only pub and restaurant near Heathrow offering generous British fare, excellent gluten-free options, and warm hospitality.
Three Magpies
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A cozy Heathrow pub serving hearty classics and a wide drink selection in a friendly, family- and dog-friendly setting.
Madeirinhas
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Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
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A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
Il Portico
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Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Always & Forever - Wedding Dresses London
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Premier family-run bridal boutique in Hounslow offering over 700 gowns and personalized, pressure-free service for your perfect wedding dress.
Harrods
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Experience the pinnacle of luxury shopping and festive magic at Harrods, London’s iconic department store in Knightsbridge.
Louis Vuitton Heathrow T3
11.2 km
Experience timeless luxury and impeccable style at Louis Vuitton Heathrow Terminal 3, your elegant travel companion.
Broadway Market Tooting
12.2 km
A historic and vibrant South London market offering diverse food, unique shops, and a lively social scene since 1936.
Stuff
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Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming West London boutique with a personal touch and curated collections.
Elmsleigh Shopping Centre
12.4 km
Discover the vibrant Elmsleigh Shopping Centre in Staines, featuring an array of shops, dining options, and family-friendly activities for everyone.
Staines Market
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Experience the vibrant tradition of Staines Market, where fresh local produce and diverse stalls bring community spirit to Staines High Street.
Two Rivers
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Two Rivers Shopping Centre in Staines-upon-Thames; a premier destination for shopping and dining.
The London Heritage
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Westfield London
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Octavia Foundation - Kensington
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the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
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the Design Museum Shop
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Rococo Chocolates King's Road
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Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sussex Arms
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The M Bar
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London Apprentice
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Green Man
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The Queen's Head, Cranford
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The White Hart Harlington
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Star & Scorpion
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The Curtains Up
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The Music Box
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Sugar Cane Bar
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Bar Social
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The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
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The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Le Fez
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The Clapham Grand
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Ricco London
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B London
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Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Dolce Night Club , London
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Notting Hill Arts Club
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Metric
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The Duke of Wellington
15.5 km
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Infernos Nightclub
15.5 km
Clapham’s legendary two-floor nightclub where wild nights, iconic music, and unforgettable parties come alive until dawn.
Electric House
15.5 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Globe
15.8 km
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Subteranian
15.9 km
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Privilege Entertainment Ltd
16.5 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Phonox
16.9 km
Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- 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
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly