Henry VIII: Heads and Hearts

Throughout 2009, London's Hampton Court Palace will be celebrating the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII becoming King of England.

Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace

In a spectacular programme of special events and exhibitions, Hampton Court Palace will be majestically transformed to present the story of Henry VIII and life within his court.

Many areas of the palace, including King Henry's State Apartments, have been revamped, with the introduction of lavish new furnishings and historical exhibits.

Tudor fans will also be thrilled about the opening of The King's Council Chamber. This is where Henry VIII made many world-changing decisions, but it has never before been open to the public.

Historic Celebrations at Hampton Court Palace

Throughout the anniversary year costumed interpreters will recreate the atmosphere of the King's court, inviting visitors to join in the historic celebrations as Henry VIII marries his sixth wife, Catherine Parr.

There will be opportunities to meet with the King and Queen, as well as taking part in traditional 16th-century games and feasting. Tudor costumes are also available for those who want to fully immerse themselves in court life!

Tudor River Pageant from Tower of London to Hampton Court Palace

The anniversary of Henry's coronation will be celebrated in fabulous style on Saturday 20 June, with a Tudor river pageant.

King Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon will travel by boat from the Tower of London to Hampton Court Palace, accompanied by a flotilla of traditional oared boats.

The procession will leave the Tower of London at 10am, arriving at Hampton Court Palace at 3pm for a fabulous afternoon of feasting, fun and games.

Other Henry VIII Events at Hampton Court Palace

Other not-to-be-missed Henry VIII events at Hampton Court Palace include:

• Henry VIII's Tapestries Revealed. View a 16th-century tapestry in its full beauty and opulence, as it would have been 500 years ago. (10 Apr-3 Jan 2010)

• The opening of the Tudor Garden. A beautiful Tudor garden, created by the acclaimed landscape architect Todd Longstaffe-Gowan and based on new historical research. (Opens 1 Jun)

• Young Henry. The story of the early years of Henry's reign, told through a series of historic Tudor paintings, including the Field of the Cloth of Gold and the Battle of the Spurs. (Until 31 Dec)