Hampton Court Palace: Tickets and Tours

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Hampton Court is a 500-year-old palace that was once the home of the infamous Henry VIII and all six of his wives. Commissioned in 1689 by William III and his wife Mary II, this Baroque castle features exquisite gardens and an outstanding art collection.

Visitors flock to the palace each year for a string of celebratory events, as well as to investigate the reported ghost sightings in the ancient corridors. Book your Hampton Court Palace tickets to be transported back to the splendor of Tudor times.

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Hampton Court Palace: Tickets and Tours

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Hampton Court is a 500-year-old palace that was once the home of the infamous Henry VIII and all six of his wives. Commissioned in 1689 by William III and his wife Mary II, this Baroque castle features exquisite gardens and an outstanding art collection.

Visitors flock to the palace each year for a string of celebratory events, as well as to investigate the reported ghost sightings in the ancient corridors. Book your Hampton Court Palace tickets to be transported back to the splendor of Tudor times.

Here's all you need to know about Hampton Court Palace, one of the most famous destinations for attractions in London.

How much do Hampton Court Palace tickets cost?

Hampton Court Palace tickets include access to all open public areas, the gardens, courtyards, the Magic Garden and the Maze. An optional 10% donation can be added to the ticket price at the time of purchase.

General ticket fees to Hampton Court Palace:

  • Adults (18-64): £26.10
  • Young adults (16-17): £20.90
  • Children (5-15): £13
  • Infants (0-4): Free
  • Full-time students: £20.90
  • Senior with ID (65 and above): £20.90

Who is eligible for ticket discounts?

Members of the military and their families are eligible for a 30% discount on tickets with the presentation of a valid MOD90 card, the Defence Discount card or a MOD Certificate of Eligibility at the time of arrival.

Family discounted Hampton Court Palace tickets:

  • 1 adult and up to 3 children (aged 5-15): £45.60
  • 2 adults and up to 3 children (aged 5-15): £71. 70

What are the best Hampton Court Palace tours?

Self-guided tour to Hampton Court Palace

On this Hampton Court Palace tour, you will explore on your own through the sweeping manor home with the help of an audio guide included in the price of your ticket. You will delight in hearing pre-recorded information from historians who share captivating stories of the castle’s past.

Discover both William III and King Henry VIII’s apartments, while learning the shocking secrets behind the ancient walls. Peruse the perfectly manicured gardens and the Chapel Royal at your own leisure.

Secrets of Hampton Court Palace Walking tour

Join a historian guide from the television show “Secrets of Henry VIII’s Palace” on a walking tour of this spellbinding estate. After exploring the apartments of King Henry and William, learn the mysterious stories behind the castle deaths and the ghosts that haunt the halls.

You’ll explore rich galleries filled with priceless artwork and be transported back in time to the bustling Tudor court of the 16th century. This excursion will provide all the inside secrets of the captivating Hampton Court Palace.

Hampton Court Palace bike tour

Choose a 3-hour bike tour with an expert guide if you’re looking for a more active way to sightsee the palace. Cycle across the grounds where you’ll catch breathtaking views of the River Thames, as well as both the royal Bushy and Hampton Court parks.

While cycling, you’ll absorb interesting facts about the palace and Henry Tudor VIII alongside a small group of others. Towards the end of your excursion, you’ll stop by the infamous King’s old hunting grounds and an old WWII military base, while enjoying the natural beauty of the palace.

Private tour of Hampton Court Palace

Select a private tour of Hampton Court Palace for a closer look at the historic castle and ground. A qualified guide will lead you through the Great Hall, the many kitchens and the eerie haunted gallery of the 500-year-old property.

Stop to marvel at the ceremonial staircase of William III, as well as the eccentric decor that fills the hallowed halls. After surveying the indoors, head outside to witness the 24 hectares of land that encompass the palace. The grounds are home to the world’s largest and oldest grapevine still in production, as well as the tricky garden Maze.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including Hampton Court Palace and other attractions?

Hampton Court Palace plus Windsor Castle

On this guided tour, you’ll have the ability to visit two of London’s most fascinating royal palaces. Begin your day with a trip to Windsor Castle, Windsor Town and Eton, the home of the late Queen Elizabeth II. The impressive place has been the residence of 39 monarchs in English history and is filled with secret passageways and stunning staterooms.

After your tour of Windsor, you’ll continue on to St. George's chapel, the burial place of Henry VIII, Charles I, George VI and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Explore the hidden secrets of the medieval gothic chapel before closing out your excursion at Hampton Court Palace.

Hampton Court Palace plus Buckingham Palace and St. James’ Palace

This full-day tour will hit three of England’s most treasured royal homes and several of London’s most beautiful parks. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at St. James’ Palace before catching an awe-inspiring view of Buckingham Palace from Victoria Gardens.

Pass through Green Park and St. James’s Park for a breath of fresh air before finishing the day trip at Hampton Court Palace.

Hampton Court Palace plus Tower of London and Kensington Palace

Visit the immaculate UNESCO World Heritage site that is the 1,000-year-old Tower of London on this combined Palace day trip. Gaze at the priceless crown jewels, while learning the treacherous past of the central London castle.

Stop by the Hampton Court Palace and gardens for a look at life as a Tudor monarch before finishing out the tour at the famous Kensington Palace. There you’ll learn about the legacy of Queen Victoria’s reign, while examining the splendor of the various apartments.

Is it possible to visit the Hampton Court Palace for free?

Hampton Court Palace members are allowed free entry, as well as persons with disabilities who can present proof via an Access Card, Blue Badge, Freedom Pass, DLA or PIP letter. Carers of persons with disabilities can get their complimentary tickets on the day of their visit.

Should you book Hampton Court Palace tickets in advance?

Secure your Hampton Court Palace tickets in advance during peak season in case of overcrowding on school holidays or special events. You can also pay for the admission fees at the palace’s ticket office on the day of your visit.

What will you see inside the Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace was home to both Henry VIII and William III during two distinct periods of English history. Begin your tour in the Tudor apartments and kitchens to immerse yourself in the grand and festive life of the medieval king.

From there, explore the living space of King William III, as well as the Georgian Story area, where royals from the country inhabited after his reign ended.

Visit the exquisite palace galleries, including the haunted hall where King Henry VIII’s fifth wife Catherine Howard ran to plead for her life. The queen’s ghost can allegedly still be seen running through the gallery and heard screaming for mercy.

Outside the castle walls sit several perfectly manicured gardens and lawns open for guest exploration. Visit the enchanting Chapel Royal, which has been in use for over 450 years.

How do you get there?

Hampton Court Palace is about a 30-minute train ride from Central London and is located upstream on the River Thames. The grounds are situated southwest of the landmark city next to Richmond Park and Wimbledon.

When is the best time to tour Hampton Court Palace?

It’s best to visit Hampton Court Palace from April to September when the weather is warm, and the gardens are in bloom. The Magic Garden children’s playground typically closes for the winter months. Opening and closing times change monthly, so make sure to check the website before your visit.

Which other attractions can be visited in London?

Travel tips

  • During the peak season or special events, visitors are required to arrive anytime within a pre-selected 1-hour time slot, so plan accordingly.
  • Bring only hand luggage, as larger bags or backpacks are not allowed inside. However, lockers are available in the Buggy Store at Clock Court to deposit large bags during your visit.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to allow for ample exploration across the palace grounds.
  • Prepare for the rainy English weather with an umbrella and raincoat during cooler months.

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