Must-Visit Royal Attractions in the UK: Hampton Court Palace
When traveling in the UK, royal attractions are a must. Besides extremely famous sites like Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and Westminster Abbey, Hampton Court Palace, known as the 'Versailles of England,' is also well worth a visit. The London Pass is here to take you to explore this former royal residence of the British monarchy.
Located in southwest London, Hampton Court Palace was first built in 1515 and contains 1,280 rooms. It boasts unique historical charm, opulent interior decorations, and extraordinary garden artistry, making it a model of Tudor royal palaces in England and an unmissable cultural attraction in London.
Occupying a very important geographical location, the palace was originally built by Cardinal Wolsey in the Tudor style in 1515, beginning its transformation from a simple country villa to a magnificent palace. After Henry VIII took over Hampton Court Palace in the 1520s, he expanded it and used it as a symbol of status, displaying power through grand banquets, lavish court life, and extravagant artworks. By the 1530s, the palace was turned into a hotel, a theater, and a massive leisure and entertainment complex. Entering the 17th century, the palace became the most elite venue, with Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' 'Macbeth,' and 'The King's Men' performed at Hampton Court Palace for the first time, specially staged for the newly crowned Stuart King James I.
Today, Hampton Court Palace presents two distinctly different sides. On the western side, you can appreciate the concentrated charm of Henry VIII's Tudor palace and the glorious features of Renaissance garden art. In the ancient rear courtyard, the magnificent Baroque buildings designed by Christopher Wren are full of symmetry.
The Great Vine: As a featured attraction of Hampton Court Palace, this vine was planted in 1769 and originally named 'Shiva Grossa.' To this day, the vine is still cultivated using Victorian methods. The grapes usually ripen in August and are sold during the first three weeks of December—in the past, these grapes were sent to Queen Victoria at Windsor Castle.
Image source: Hampton Court Palace
Crown: A symbol of power, monarchy, and religious authority. This replica was made based on detailed descriptions from Henry VIII's servants, who listed the size and position of the 344 rubies, sapphires, emeralds, diamonds, and pearls that adorned the crown. The real crown was melted down at the Tower of London in 1649 by order of Oliver Cromwell.
Image source: Hampton Court Palace
Royal Chapel: The Tudor-style, elaborately designed Royal Chapel is a masterpiece of religious architecture, offering traditional services throughout the year.
Hampton Court Palace Gardens: A horticultural masterpiece worth admiring! The gardens cover 750 acres, with formal gardens covering 60 acres. In addition to the Great Vine, the Private Garden (a recreation of William III's garden), the Tiltyard Wall, the Home Park (a 700-acre deer park with ponds and wild birds), and the palace maze are all splendid and not to be missed.
Tudor Kitchens: As a testament to Tudor dining, Henry VIII's kitchens at Hampton Court Palace were the largest of their time. Built between 1530 and 1737, these kitchens prepared two meals daily for 600 people, so you can imagine the spectacular cooking scene.
Image source: Hampton Court Palace
Over the centuries, many royal family members have adorned the palace with luxurious tapestries and paintings, making it one of the most exquisite palaces in Europe. Come and visit this extraordinary palace!
Address: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am – 4:30pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 5pm
Ticket Price: £24.50, free entry with The London Pass
