Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace

A residence of the Royal Family since the 17th century, Kensington Palace is the official London home of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge — Prince William and Kate Middleton. It was also where Queen Victoria was born and lived throughout her childhood, and once home to Diana, Princess of Wales. 

Arrive at the Palace through the beautiful, landscaped gardens before stepping through the entrance hall and into the plush King and Queen’s State Apartments. Here, you can soak in exceptional architecture and costumes that the Royal Family have worn over the centuries.

One room you absolutely must not miss is the Jewel Room, where you’ll discover Queen Victoria’s magnificent collection of dazzling jewels, including a diamond and emerald tiara. See the exquisite Kokoshnik tiara set with white and yellow gold diamonds and the remarkable Fife tiara, featuring a row of pear-shaped diamonds. 

Explore the rooms Queen Victoria spent her early years in and see some of her personal items including her spectacular doll house. You’ll also marvel at the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection showcasing dresses from the 18th century to the present day. 

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the architect behind St Paul’s Cathedral, venture behind the royal doors of Kensington Palace to uncover the remarkable workings of royal life. 

Exhibition: Crown to Couture
This April discover one of the largest exhibitions ever staged at the palace: Crown to Couture. Exploring the parallels between contemporary and historic fashion, the exhibition will see over 200 spectacular objects on display in the magnificent State Apartments. 

Visitors will be taken on journey from the preparation and fashion “rules” to the grand arrivals at both court and red carpet events. They will also see many couture pieces worn by celebrities such as Lizzo and Lady Gaga to the finest examples of 18th century Georgian court dress. See the intricately embroidered Rockingham Mantua and the world-renowned Silver Tissue Gown. This handmade gown with fine silk and silver thread is a rare example of fashion worn at the court of Charles II.

Objects on display in the King’s Gallery will aim to connect the centuries by demonstrating how the fashion worn by Georgians would be reported widely in newspapers just as celebrities today are subject to public scrutiny. 

Crown to Couture opens to the public on 5th April 2023 and is included in in palace admission.