Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace – A Royal Residence Rich in History and Splendor
Step into the elegant world of Kensington Palace, a historic royal residence set in the heart of London’s Kensington Gardens. Once the childhood home of Queen Victoria and the residence of Princess Diana, Kensington Palace has been a royal home for over 300 years and continues to be a working palace today, housing members of the modern royal family.
Explore the lavish State Apartments, where monarchs and courtiers once lived and entertained. Marvel at the grandeur of the King’s State Apartments, with their stunning paintings and ornate furnishings, and discover the Queen’s State Apartments, which offer a more intimate glimpse into royal life. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the tranquil surroundings that have been a favourite retreat for royals for centuries.
Visit the Victoria Revealed exhibition to learn about the life and reign of Queen Victoria, featuring personal items and artefacts that tell the story of her extraordinary journey from Kensington Palace to the throne. Experience the captivating Life Through a Royal Lens exhibition, showcasing a unique collection of royal photography through the years.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and royal charm, Kensington Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of past and present royals. Whether you’re exploring the grand rooms, enjoying the serene gardens, or delving into the captivating exhibitions, Kensington Palace provides a regal experience that’s not to be missed.
Kensington Palace Exhibitions & Highlights
Just some of the exhibitions and highlights at Kensington Palace include:
Fashion Rules Restyled
- This glamorous exhibition features rare and exquisite outfits of three royal women in their fashion heydays.
- Get a rare glimpse into the wardrobes of HM Queen Elizabeth II in the 1950s and Princess Margaret in the 1960s and 70s
- Surrounded by contemporary photography, film, music and accessories, get a real sense of the decades in which these clothes were worn and how they inspired everyday fashions.
Victoria Revealed
- Inspired by her own intimate diaries, this exhibition reveals Queen Victoria’s long and extraordinary life in her own words.
- Imagine how she felt on her first day as Queen at just 17 years old as you explore her childhood home
- Through this fascinating exhibition, you’ll discover Victoria’s thoughts on Prince Albert, the love of her life, their marriage and her family.
The Kings and Queens State Apartments
- Filled with stories of two royal courts; the Stuarts and the Hanoverians, these cosy, private rooms were once used by Queen Mary II for relaxation.
- Learn what you would have worn, how you should behave and how to succeed in the heady atmosphere of the palace state apartments.
Garden History Tours
- Take a free historical tour of the Kensington Palace Gardens! Explore their diverse history, and see the magnificent statue of Queen Victoria and the iconic Gold Gates.
- You’ll also have exclusive access to the beautiful Baroque-inspired Sunken Garden, not normally open to the public.
- Garden History tours are available from May to September and are included with your Kensington Palace tickets.
What’s On: Crown to Couture
The Evening Standard has called this all-new, absolutely stunning exhibition “surely the starriest fashion exhibition London has ever seen”. Crown to Couture at Kensington Palace is an unmissable experience.
Spotlighting over 200 pieces from ball gowns to coattails, statement jewellery pieces, iconic handbags and everything in between, this brand-new captivating fashion exhibition draws parallels between the glitz of today’s red carpet and the glamour of Georgian Royal Court in the 18th century.
See up close Beyonce´’s Peter Dundas look for the 2017 GRAMMY Awards, the custom Moschino chandelier-inspired outfit designed for Katy Perry and worn at the 2019 Met Gala, among many other contemporary iconic red carpet highlights. Contrasted with these modern-day looks, don’t miss the stunning yellow mantua on loan from National Museums Scotland, the widest surviving court gown in Britain at nearly three metres.
Book now to experience this fascinating fashion haven for yourself – it’s not one to miss!
Key Information:
Availability:
Open daily (excluding 24-26 December)
Opening Times:
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm (last admission 5 pm)
Getting There:
- The nearest underground train stations to Kensington Palace are High Street Kensington (approximately 10 minutes walk) and Queensway (approximately 5 minutes walk).
- Bus routes are 9,10, 49, 52, 70, and 452 to Kensington High Street or 27, 70, 94, 148 and 390 to Bayswater Road.
Accessibility:
- All areas of Kensington Palace are fully accessible and have excellent facilities for wheelchair users.
- A limited number of wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Guide dogs and hearing dogs are welcome at Kensington Palace.
Facilities:
- The Orangery: An elegant location for afternoon tea or refreshments.
- Palace Café: For family lunches, snacks and refreshments.
