Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace featuring heritage architecture, a castle and interior views
Journey though history and learn about the lives of the British Royal Family at this official London residence, set in the magnificent Kensington Gardens.

London’s Kensington Palace has been home to various members of the royal family since the 17th century. Still a working royal residence today, sections of the palace and gardens are open to visitors, providing a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of some of Britain’s most significant royals. 

Starting out as a mansion in 1605, the palace has undergone various expansions and alterations over the centuries. In more recent times Kensington Palace gained worldwide fame as the home of Diana, Princess of Wales. 

Like many of Britain’s royal residencies, parts of Kensington Palace are now open to the public. The palace is divided into four areas known as “story zones,” with guides and multimedia installations on hand to bring the past to life. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by Luminous Lace. This striking contemporary installation mimics a royal lace pattern and is crafted from miles of luminescent wire and 12,000 Swarovski crystals. 

Follow in the footsteps of past monarchs by climbing the King’s Staircase to the opulent King’s State Apartments. Then take the Queen’s Staircase to see the sumptuous furnishings and artworks in the Queens Gallery, Queen’s Drawing Room and Queen’s Bedroom. 

Visit the Fashion Rules exhibition to admire Princess Diana’s couture dress collection, as well as many belonging to Princess Margaret and the current Queen. Learn about the public and private life of one of Britain’s greatest monarchs, Queen Victoria, in Victoria Revealed. 

The Palace Gardens play a staring role as well, particularly in the warmer months. The gardens connect to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park where you’ll find the Diana Memorial Fountain.

Visit the Palace Café and Gift Shop for souvenirs and refreshments. For a treat, enjoy an elegant breakfast or decadent afternoon tea in The Orangery, which overlooks the palace grounds.

Kensington Palace is centrally located in Chelsea and is an easy walk from several Tube stations. The palace is open year-round 7 days a week, except for a few days around the Christmas holiday and the end of January. Ticket prices include access to the palace, gardens and exhibitions. 

Plan a trip to see Kensington Palace

Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria
St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel, London
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Reviews of Kensington Palace

4.3
Top destination
5 - Excellent
109
" "5 - Excellent 45.9915611814346%
4 - Good
105
" "4 - Good 44.30379746835443%
3 - Okay
13
" "3 - Okay 5.485232067510548%
2 - Disappointing
5
" "2 - Disappointing 2.109704641350211%
1 - Terrible
5
" "1 - Terrible 2.109704641350211%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
8 Nov 2019

Visit coffee shop early as gets very busy

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
16 Aug 2019

Lords cricket ground

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
4 Aug 2019

it's a big, non-impressive looking building, with large, plain grounds. not sure what I was expecting, but was sure expecting more.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
4 Jul 2019

Didn't go inside but sunken garden worth seeing

3/5 - Okay

Rosemarie
26 Jun 2019

Beautiful gardens

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
23 Feb 2019

Only went into the cafe - the food was over priced & stale. Service slow & unfriendly

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