Hampton Court Palace

Explore historic Hampton Court Palace and learn about the historical happenings, from the 16th century through to Georgian times and the present day.

Uncover Tudor treasures, glorious gardens and an iconic maze at this Grade I-listed royal palace on the banks of the river Thames, which is said to have been Henry VIII’s favourite residence.

Things to see and do at Hampton Court Palace

Experience the magnificence of the Tudor palace from the ornate Base Court, marvel at the lavishly decorated State Rooms and Apartments and see the sprawling Tudor kitchens that once produced more than 800 meals a day for the hungry household of Henry VIII.

Dare to walk the infamous Haunted Gallery lined with Tudor portraits, where the ghost of Catherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife, has been seen running its length.

Other palace highlights include the Great Hall, which is adorned with magnificent tapestries, the Chapel Royal, home to Anne Boleyn’s Book of Hours, William III’s State Apartments and the Magic Garden adventure playground.

Explore the Hampton Court Palace gardens

After exploring the many fascinating areas of the palace, head outside to wander 60 acres (24 hectares) of stunning gardens, which have played host to many popular films and TV shows including Netflix’s Bridgerton. Don’t forget to try out your puzzling skills in the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze, which has been testing visitors since 1700!

What’s on at Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace has unmissable events throughout the year. Join the Easter trail, enjoy the summer sun at the annual Food Festival over the August bank holiday weekend, be spooked at Halloween, or be dazzled by the palace brimming with festive decorations around Christmas time. Don't miss the annual Festive Fayre, which takes over the courtyards with stalls full of foodie treats and gifts.

Become a Historic Royal Palaces member for free entry to Hampton Court Palace and other historical royal palaces all year round, including these events.

You can also hear some of the world’s top music acts in the magical setting of the Tudor courtyard, at the open-air Hampton Court Palace Festival each June.

How to book tickets to Hampton Court Palace

Book Hampton Court Place tickets now.

How long does it take to tour?

It takes two to three hours to explore Hampton Court Palace and its gardens.

Your ticket gives you access for the whole day, so you have plenty of time to explore – make sure to pick up a free audio guide to discover even more fascinating stories about the palace and its residents.

You can also browse the gift shops and enjoy food and drink from The Tiltyard Café and Wilderness kiosk during your visit.

Where is Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace is located near East Molesey, in the London Borough of Richmond, in south-west London.

How to get to Hampton Court Palace from London

Hampton Court railway station is a five-minute walk from the palace. Train services operate from London Waterloo and take around 30 minutes. There is no London Underground station at Hampton Court.

Various bus routes from nearby Richmond and Kingston also stop near the palace.

Is there parking at Hampton Court Palace?

Limited car parking is available at Hampton Court Palace on a first-come, first-served basis, with payment required on site. There are also nine disabled parking bays, which are free for Blue Badge holders.

If the car park is full, you can use the nearby, off-site car park at Hampton Court Green, which is located 500 metres (1,640ft) from the palace entrance.

Frequently asked questions

Who lived at Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace’s most famous resident was Henry VIII (1491-1547), who spent more time here than at any of his other residences during the second half of his reign. All six of his wives also spent time at the palace.

When William III and Mary II took the throne in 1689, they commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to build an elegant new baroque residence.

Later, Georgian kings and princes occupied the splendid interiors. When the royals left in 1737, impoverished 'grace and favour' aristocrats moved in, and no monarch has resided at the palace ever since.

How much is Hampton Court Palace worth?

Hampton Court Palace was built for 200,000 crowns (£57.6m). Today, the palace is estimated to be worth £1bn.

When was Hampton Court Palace built?

The original Tudor Hampton Court Palace was built by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, in the early 16th century. Wolsey acquired a modest manor house and transformed it into a magnificent palace fit for a king.

Who owns Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace has been owned by the reigning monarch since Tudor times. Queen Victoria opened it to the public in 1838. Today, King Charles III owns the palace ‘in trust of the Crown’, however, the structure and grounds are cared for by the independent charity, Historic Royal Palaces.