The flamboyant Tudor monarch, Henry VIII is most associated with this majestic Palace. He lavished money on fabulous tapestries and paintings, housed and fed a huge court and pursued a succession of wives, political power and domination over Rome. However, the elegance and romance of the palace owes much to the Baroque buildings created by Sir Christopher Wren for the joint monarchs William and Mary at the end of the 17th century.
The palace is set in 60 acres of formal gardens and more than 750 acres of parkland.
Henry's Majesty
Henry VIII's majesty lives-on at Hampton Court Palace and in 2011 visitors will be able to join Henry VIII and Katryn Parr as they prepare for their wedding day. Visitors can relive the merriment in the recently represented Tudor Palace, indulge in a bit of Tudor cooking in the Great Kitchens and take a turn round the Tudor Court garden.
Henry's Dynasty
Come and meet Henry VIII in 2011 and hear of his concern for his son and heir Edward, and the Tudor succession. Visitors will join the king and his court in the intrigue and gossip that surrounds his new marriage to Katryn Parr. Henry's three children, Mary, Elizabeth and Edward will be introduced as visitors ask "who wears the crown next"?
Henry's Hospitality
Gather around the new, 4 meter high wine fountain in Base Court, the Tudor equivalent of the water cooler! Hear what the future will bring to the Tudor dynasty. This amazing replica follows closely one that can be seen in The Field of the Cloth of Gold painting exhibited in the Young Henry exhibition in the Wolsey rooms. In the summer months visitors can even purchase a glass of wine from it in the late afternoon at weekends.
New guided tours with palace expert guides
The palace is full of treasures from the Royal Collection as well as stories from over 500 years of history. Why not book one of our Palace History Guides to get under the surface and find out more of the fascinating stories. The new tours are Hampton Court 'Painted ladies', Dress, Dazzle and Display and Treasures of the Royal Collection. You can also choose the wonderful Hampton Court Gardens - Land of a thousand years or combine two tours.
Audio Guides
Audio guides are included in the palace ticket and are available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Japanese.
Please allow at least 2-3 hours for your visit.