Hampton Court Palace

About

Hampton Court Palace is a magnificent Tudor–Baroque royal residence situated in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, 12 miles (19 km) southwest of Central London on the River Thames. The palace was originally built for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey in 1514–1515 and subsequently enlarged by Henry VIII, the Stuarts and William III, becoming a blend of grand Tudor and Baroque architecture. Today it is a thriving visitor attraction that opens its doors to the public each day except major holidays. Visitors are drawn to its sweeping formal gardens, world‑famous hedge maze, the Great Vine, the old Portcullis‑style moat, the statue grouping of the King’s Beasts, and the historic Great Hall with its hammerbeam roof. The palace also houses the Royal Treasury, the Chapel Royal, and spectacular State Apartments that were once home to the monarch’s court. A typical visit of about 4½ hours allows guests to explore the State Apartments, the Hall, the Maze, and the gardens while enjoying the playful atmosphere, the former prison cells, and the unique blend of Renaissance and Baroque décor. Members of Historic Royal Palaces receive unlimited free admission during opening hours and, on selected days, are required to pre‑book a free member ticket. The Palace is highly accessible, offers a wide range of guided tours, educational activities for children, and a variety of seasonal events such as the Hampton Court Palace Festival and the Great Vine Festival. Its combination of historic significance, architectural grandeur, and beautiful landscapes makes it one of London’s most popular cultural landmarks.

Highlights

• Maze
• Great Vine
• Great Hall
• Long Water
• King's Beasts
• State Apartments

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At a glance

• Typical visit: about 4 hours 30 minutes

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