Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace: Everything You Need to Know

Step into the grandeur of Hampton Court Palace, a magnificent royal residence that has stood for over 500 years on the banks of the River Thames in East Molesey, Surrey. Originally built in 1514 for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, it became one of Henry VIII’s favorite homes and later a Baroque masterpiece under William III and Mary II, thanks to Sir Christopher Wren’s designs. Today, managed by Historic Royal Palaces, this Grade I listed site captivates millions with its Tudor kitchens, opulent State Apartments, world-famous maze, and 60 acres of stunning gardens. 

Whether you’re exploring its rich history, getting lost in the maze, or enjoying family-friendly events, Hampton Court Palace offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Location

Hampton Court Palace is located at Hampton Court Way, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU, United Kingdom, approximately 12 miles southwest of central London on the north bank of the River Thames. Its proximity to landmarks like Bushy Park and the village of Hampton makes it a central hub for exploring Surrey’s cultural offerings. Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for precise navigation.

Opening Hours

Hampton Court Palace is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and December 24-26. From June 2025, some rooms and routes may have reduced access or be closed for conservation work, so always check the opening times page and route closures page for updates before visiting.

How to Get There

Hampton Court Palace is easily accessible by various transport options:

• By Train: Take a South Western Railway train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court station (35-40 minute journey), followed by a 5-minute walk across the bridge to the palace entrance. Trains run every 30 minutes.
• By Bus: Routes 111, 216, and 411 stop near the palace, connecting from Kingston upon Thames or Richmond. Check Transport for London for schedules.
• By Car: On-site parking is available (£5.50 for up to 4 hours, £11 for all day). Follow signs from the A307 or A309. Limited spaces make public transport preferable during peak times.
• By Bicycle: Cycle racks are available near the main entrance. The palace is accessible via local cycle routes from Kingston or Richmond.
• By River Boat: Seasonal riverboat services operate from Richmond or Kingston, offering a scenic approach. Check Thames River Boats for schedules.
• On Foot: From Kingston upon Thames, it’s a pleasant 20-30 minute walk along the Thames Path.

For real-time travel planning, use TfL Go or Citymapper.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hampton Court Palace is during spring (March–May) or summer (June–August), when the gardens are in full bloom, and outdoor activities like the maze and Magic Garden are at their peak. However, these months are busy, so opt for weekdays or early mornings (10:00 AM) to avoid crowds. Autumn (September–November) offers vibrant foliage and fewer visitors, while winter (December–February) is quieter but colder, with festive events like ice skating adding charm. Check the what’s on page for events like the Hampton Court Palace Festival (June 2025) or family-friendly trails during school holidays.

Tickets and Costs

Entry to Hampton Court Palace requires a ticket, which includes access to all open public areas, gardens, courtyards, the Maze, and the Magic Garden. Booking online via the tickets page is recommended to secure your time slot and avoid queues. Prices as of May 2025 are:

Ticket Type	Off-Peak Price	Peak Price
Adult (18-64)	£28.00	£30.90
Child (5-15)	£14.00	£15.50
Child (0-4)	Free	Free
Young Person (16-17)	£14.00	£15.50
Senior (65+)	£22.50	£24.70
Full-time Student (18+)	£22.50	£24.70
Disabled Concession	£22.50	£24.70
Disabled Carer/Companion	Free	Free
Groups (10+)	£25.80	£28.40
£1 Tickets (Eligible Benefits)	£1.00	£1.00

• Peak Times: Weekends, bank holidays (except August bank holiday), and special events.
• Off-Peak Times: Weekdays.
• Discounts: £1 tickets are available for those on benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit, covering up to six people per household. Historic Royal Palaces members get free entry (pre-booking required for select events).
• Note: From June 2025, some areas may be closed for conservation; check the closures page.

What to Expect

Hampton Court Palace offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural experiences across its vast grounds:

• Tudor Highlights: Explore Henry VIII’s State Apartments, including the Great Hall with its hammerbeam roof, and the Tudor Kitchens, where feasts were prepared for hundreds. The Chapel Royal, with its stunning vaulted ceiling, is a must-see.
• Baroque Palace: Wander through the elegant King’s and Queen’s Apartments, redesigned by Christopher Wren for William III and Mary II, showcasing Baroque opulence.
• Gardens: Discover 60 acres of formal gardens, including the Privy Garden, Pond Gardens, and the Great Vine, the world’s oldest grapevine, planted in 1768. The Wilderness area offers a tranquil retreat.
• Hampton Court Maze: Navigate the world’s oldest hedge maze, a fun challenge for all ages.
• Magic Garden: A family-friendly play area with towers, slides, and mythical creatures, perfect for children.
• Exhibitions and Events: Enjoy seasonal displays, such as the Peter Rabbit™ Garden Trail (summer 2025) or exhibitions on Indian Army soldiers at the palace.

A typical visit lasts 3-4 hours, though history buffs or families may spend longer exploring the gardens and maze. Facilities include the Tiltyard Café, Thistle Café, accessible toilets, a gift shop with Tudor-inspired souvenirs, and free Wi-Fi. Audio guides in multiple languages and themed tours, like the Film and TV Location Tour, enhance the experience.

Safety and Accessibility

• Safety: The palace is a safe, family-friendly destination with staff and security present. Follow signage for restricted areas, especially during conservation work, and be cautious of uneven surfaces in historic sections. As a busy tourist site, keep valuables secure to avoid pickpockets.
• Accessibility: Hampton Court Palace offers:
• Wheelchair Hire: Free, available at the main entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Accessible Parking: 10 Blue Badge bays, bookable in advance via +44 (0)20 3166 6000.
• Ramps and Lifts: Available in most areas, though some historic sections (e.g., Tudor Kitchens) have steps or cobbles.
• Accessible Toilets: Located in the Base Court and near the Tiltyard Café.
• Digital BSL Guide: Free for deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors.
• Audio-Described Tours: Available for blind or partially sighted visitors.
• Assistance Dogs: Welcome throughout the palace and gardens.

For detailed accessibility information, visit the access page. Contact access@hrp.org.uk for specific needs.

History and Background

Hampton Court Palace began in 1514 as a grand residence for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Henry VIII’s chief minister. In 1529, Wolsey gifted it to Henry VIII to regain favor, but the king soon made it his own, expanding it into a lavish Tudor palace where he entertained his six wives. In the 1690s, William III and Mary II commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to rebuild parts in the Baroque style, aiming to rival Versailles, though financial constraints limited the project. 

The palace served as a royal residence until 1737, after which it housed “grace and favor” aristocrats. Queen Victoria opened it to the public in 1838, and today, managed by Historic Royal Palaces, it remains a vibrant heritage site. Fun Fact: The Hampton Court Maze, planted in 1690, is the oldest surviving hedge maze in the world, originally designed for William III.

Nearby Attractions

Hampton Court Palace’s location in Surrey offers easy access to nearby attractions:

• Bushy Park (adjacent): A 1,100-acre royal park with deer, the Diana Fountain, and walking trails.
• Hampton Village (10-minute walk): A charming village with historic pubs, riverside walks, and local shops.
• Kingston upon Thames (20-minute drive): A bustling town with shopping, dining, and the historic Kingston Bridge.
• Richmond Park (20-minute drive): Another royal park with vast landscapes and wildlife.

Combine your visit with a stroll through Bushy Park and a meal in Hampton Village for a full day out.

Practical Tips

• Book Tickets Online: Reserve via the tickets page to secure your slot and avoid queues.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Extensive walking on cobbles and through gardens requires sturdy footwear.
• Bring a Raincoat: London’s weather can be unpredictable, especially for outdoor areas.
• Photography: Permitted for personal use, but tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed.
• Check Conservation Closures: From June 2025, some areas may be closed; verify on the closures page.
• Join a Tour: Audio guides or themed tours (e.g., Film and TV Location Tour) enhance your visit.
• Travel Light: Large bags may need to be checked; limited storage is available.
• Plan for Events: Look for festivals, like the Hampton Court Palace Festival, or family trails on the what’s on page.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Hampton Court Palace?

The palace is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. It’s closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and December 24-26. Check the opening times page for updates.

How much does it cost to visit Hampton Court Palace?

Adult tickets are £28.00 (off-peak) and £30.90 (peak), children’s tickets are £14.00 (off-peak) and £15.50 (peak). Discounts include £1 tickets for eligible benefits recipients and free entry for Historic Royal Palaces members.

Is Hampton Court Palace suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly with the Magic Garden, maze, and events like the Peter Rabbit™ trail, though some historic areas may require supervision due to steps.

Are there any discounts available for Hampton Court Palace?

Discounts are available for seniors, students, disabled visitors, and groups. £1 tickets are offered for those on benefits like Universal Credit.

How long does it take to visit Hampton Court Palace?

A typical visit takes 3-4 hours, longer if exploring the gardens or joining a tour.

Is photography allowed at Hampton Court Palace?

Yes, personal photography is permitted, but tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited.

Are there guided tours available at Hampton Court Palace?

Yes, audio guides and themed tours, like the Film and TV Location Tour, are available. Check the what’s on page for details.

What’s the best way to get to Hampton Court Palace from the city center?

Take a train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court station (35-40 minutes), followed by a 5-minute walk.

Is Hampton Court Palace wheelchair accessible?

Yes, with ramps, lifts, wheelchair hire, and accessible toilets, though some historic areas have steps. Contact access@hrp.org.uk for specific needs.

Are there dining options near Hampton Court Palace?

The Tiltyard Café and Thistle Café are on-site, with additional pubs and restaurants in nearby Hampton Village and Kingston upon Thames.