how much to visit kensington palace

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Kensington Palace in 2024

Kensington palace ultimate guide.

From the outside, Kensington Palace seems like a deserted, almost eerie building, perched on the edge of Hyde Park. But inside the palace there is a treasure trove of royal rooms, items, paintings and even wardrobes that any royal enthusiast will appreciate.

Kensington Palace has been a royal residence for almost 300 years, and today it serves as the official London residence for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

During the 17th century, the palace was surrounded by lush countryside, and was considered to be the “perfect rural retreat” for members of the royal family. King William III and Queen Mary II first moved into the palace to help treat the king’s asthma, as it was believed that the air surrounding Kensington Palace could “help cure without medicines.”

But a dark cloud has always lingered over Kensington Palace, as it is said to be haunted by several different spirits. Not only that, but those who once resided inside the palace lived a depressing, and often isolated life. Both Princess Diana and Princess Margaret were said to have been unhappy when they lived at Kensington Palace, and Queen Mary II contracted smallpox within weeks of moving in (she died shortly after at the age of 32). Furthermore, Queen Anne got pregnant 17 times when living at Kensington Palace, but none of her children survived to adulthood.

As a matter of fact, Kensington Palace was such a sad and dismal place for so many females who once lived there, one of the staircases was painted with portraits of valets, maids and babies in the hopes of “dispelling the curse” hanging over the palace.

Nevertheless, some pleasant as well as important royal events have taken place inside Kensington Palace throughout its history. Not only was Queen Victoria both born and raised there, she also met her future husband Albert inside the palace, and was even given the news of her accession at Kensington Palace in 1837 as well.

Kensington Palace Highlights

Despite its depressing history, Kensington Palace is essentially a hidden gem in Hyde Park, and thousands of tourists visit the palace each year. It's the perfect place to visit after joining a free tour of Westminster.

The ticket to Kensington Palace includes access to several halls and and permanent exhibitions:

• Victoria: A Royal Childhood - The rooms where Queen Victoria was born and raised. This exhibition includes displays of her childhood possessions and detailed information about her upbringing at the palace.
• The King's State Apartments - The opulent rooms used by George II. Access is through the King's Staircase, painted by William Kent, and famously decorated with lively characters from Georgian court life.
• The Queen's State Apartments - These rooms were once used by Queen Mary II. They include her dining room, bedroom, and the Queen's Gallery, providing a glimpse into her private life.
• The Jewel Room - This room features the jewelry designed for Queen Victoria by her husband, Prince Albert, including some of her most cherished pieces.
• The King's Gallery - Transformed by William Kent, this gallery showcases some of the finest paintings in the Royal Collection, offering insights into the art and culture of the Georgian period.

Additionally, the ticket provides access to temporary exhibitions and to the beautiful Palace Gardens, as well as the Sunken Garden, which features elegant floral displays and a statue of Diana, Princess of Wales.

Special Tips

Getting There

Visiting kensington palace.

Recommended visiting time for Kensington Palace is around two to three hours, depending on how much time you want to spend glancing over all the different exhibits.

The palace hosts a “History Bites” talk every day, during which a palace expert educates listeners on various different subjects related to the palace. These talks take place in the visitor areas of the palace, and there is no need to book in advance.

Visitors are also welcome to explore the palace at their own leisure, and can grab a Kensington Palace guide book for £6 during their visit to read up on its history, as well as all the different rooms they can visit.

There is a restaurant inside Kensington Palace (The Orangery) which offers breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, and the Palace Cafe also serves sandwiches, cakes and pastries (admission inside the palace is not required).

Ticket prices and Opening hours

Kensington Palace is open every day except December 24th, 25th and 26th.

From March 1st to October 31st, the palace is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (with last admission at 5:00 p.m.). Be aware that the palace closes at 4:00 p.m. during the winter months, and 6:00 p.m. during the summer months.

The ticket prices for visiting Kensington Palace are as follows:

• £24 for adult (18-64 years)
• £12 for children (5-17 years)
• £19 for concessions (65+ years, full-time students, and disabled visitors)
• Free for children under 5

Children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult during their visit.

There are also annual memberships available for £55 which include unlimited entry into London’s six most famous palaces for a year. There are also discount tickets available for groups of 15 people (or more) as well.

The Kensington Palace restaurant (The Orangery) is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day, and the Palace Cafe is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Are you gearing up for a visit to Kensington Palace? You might be interested in joining some of the many free tours in London departing daily.

Free Tours in Your Language

Visiting Kensington Palace – Tickets, Tours & FAQs

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 16, 2024

• Everything you need to know to plan and book your visit to Kensington Palace

Visiting Kensington Palace – Tickets & Tours

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Nearest Tube station – High Street Kensington (Circle and District lines) or Queensway (Central line)

How long to set aside for your visit?

It will take about two hours or more to explore the palace and its glorious gardens.

Tickets 

• Kensington Palace ticket

Good to know – Kensington Palace entry is included with The London Pass and the Go City  London Explorer Pass  

Combi tours 

Do note that some tours may not include entry to Kensington Palace, but only the gardens

• Kensington Palace gardens tour with Royal afternoon tea
• Three London Palaces walking tour plus Royal high tea

• Westminster walking tour with visit to Kensington Palace
• Evening London bike tour including Kensington Palace
• Private London walking tour with Kensington Palace

Visiting Kensington Palace

• Princess Diana lived at Kensington Palace. Princes William and Harry also spent some of their early years here. After their mother’s sudden death in 1997, the grounds outside the grand building were carpeted in floral tributes from members of the public. 
• Queen Victoria grew up at Kensington Palace. She also first met Prince Albert there. The V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum in nearby South Kensington is named after the lovestruck Royal couple. Victoria lived there until she became Queen. 
• The so-called Kensington System was a stringent and detailed set of rules laid out by Victoria, Duchess of Kent and the mother of Queen Victoria. The system was meant to increase the young royal’s dependency on her mother, but in fact made her more strong-willed and independent than ever. 
• The late Princess Margaret, the sister of Queen Elizabeth II and the Countess of Snowdon, was one of the true socialites of Kensington Palace. She held lots of parties there during the 1960s, which were attended by the likes of the Beatles, actor Peter Sellers, ballet dancers Margot Fonteyn and ​​Rudolph Nureyev, actresses Britt Ekland and Elizabeth Taylor and even comedian Spike Milligan.
• King William III first bought Kensington Palace for health reasons. His fragile disposition reacted badly to the fog, dampness and smoke of central London, so he bought the building, which was then located in a village outside the capital. Ironically he died of pneumonia at the palace. It was formerly known simply as Nottingham House. 
• A book of drawings by Leonardo da Vinci was discovered at the palace in 1770. This was over 180 years after the Mona Lisa artist died. Drawings by Henry VIII’s court painter were also discovered during the 1700s – two centuries later. 
• The palace was used for practical purposes during both World Wars. In World War I, it was used for clerical reasons and the staff concerned had to adhere to rationing. When World War II was going on, Kensington Palace Gardens were used for military defence, but were also hit by a bomb which damaged parts of the palace, including the State Apartments. 
• Did you know that one of the Peter Pan books was set in Kensington Gardens? Author J. M. Barrie penned Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens as he lived locally. Various parts of the gardens feature in the fictional tale about the boy who never wanted to grow up. The Peter Pan statue in the gardens dates from 1912, only a few years after the book’s publication. 
• Despite her unhappy childhood spent at the palace, Queen Victoria saved the iconic palace during the final years of her life. Due to neglect, there was talk of the palace being razed to the ground in around 1897, but the Queen managed to turn its fortunes around. By 1899, the restored State Rooms at the palace were open to the public. 
• You can hire parts of the palace for a Royal (style) wedding or another event. Spaces such as the King’s Drawing Room, the Cupola, the Queen’s Gallery, the Privy Chamber and the King’s Gallery can be rented out.  

Kensington Palace Opening Times

Kensington Palace is open between Wednesday and Sunday, apart from planned closures such as exhibition preparation, restoration work or Royal events like the coronation of King Charles III. 

The palace opens between 10 am and 6 pm, with the last entry an hour earlier. It’s closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays. 

The gardens are open to the public from 6 am daily. Closing times vary throughout the year. They range between 4.15 pm during most of December to 9.45 pm between early June and mid-July. 

The times reflect the hours of darkness in London. This is why they are seasonal. The UK’s shortest day is in mid to late December, and the longest in mid to late June. Entry to the gardens alone is free. 

Check opening times for the dates of your visit here. 

• Kensington Palace is open from Wednesday to Sunday and is closed on Monday and Tuesday. 
• If you can, visit on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday rather than on Saturday or Sunday. This is because weekends are busier. 
• The summer season is also a busy time for the palace. The UK school holidays run from mid-July to the start of September, so you can expect the palace to be busy during this period.
• For a more peaceful experience, get there before the palace opens for the day. Alternatively, visit in the afternoon, around two hours before closing time. 
• If you want to visit Kensington Palace Gardens only, or separately, you can do this between 6 am and nightfall. Closing times for the gardens vary according to the season and sunset times, though they are always open to pedestrians at 6 am. Entry to the gardens is free. 

There is plenty to see at Kensington Palace, plus you also have the gardens to explore. Inside, the King’s State Apartments, the Queen’s State Apartments, the King’s Staircase, the Jewel Room and the King’s Gallery are among the main attractions. 

Kensington Palace also hosts a regular programme of events. At the time of writing, for example, events included a Crown to Couture exhibition about historic and contemporary costumes. Victoria: A Royal Childhood also told the tale of the famous Queen’s formative years. 

Kensington Gardens is also a major attraction in its own right. Some of the highlights of this outside space include the Sunken Garden, the wildflower meadow in spring and summer, the shady Cradle Walk (aka Nanny Walk) and the Formal Gardens. 

• The Serpentine Galleries (in Kensington Gardens)
• The V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum
• The Natural History Museum
• The Science Museum
• The Design Museum
• The Leighton House Museum
• The Royal Albert Hall
• Kensington High Street
• The Churchill Arms 
• Holland Park
• Knightsbridge – Harrods!
• Notting Hill

• If you can, buy tickets for Kensington Palace in advance. This means you can avoid queueing up to get in. It’s often busy here, especially in summer and at weekends. 
• The palace is closed for two days each week, on Mondays and Tuesdays. Part or all of it can also close for restoration work, the setting up of exhibitions and Royal events. 
• Though you’ll have to pay to tour the palace, entry to the gardens is free. They open daily at 6 am and close at around sunset. You can see the palace from the outside here. 
• Book an afternoon tea at the palace if you have time. It’s a splendid setting for such a quintessential British tradition. You can book this alongside your ticket via the links given at the top of this guide. 
• You can experience afternoon tea at the Kensington Palace Pavilion but if you prefer you can also find plenty of places to pick up food and drinks or eat at on Kensington High Street. 
• Do allow time for the gardens. They’re one of the highlights of the palace experience. They are free to enter, though, so returning on another day may be an option you could consider. 
• If you’re a fan of the late Princess Diana – the first wife of King Charles III – then don’t miss the Sunken Garden. This is said to have been one of her favourite spots of all. 
• It’s worth thinking about which London museums you want to visit before planning your day at the palace. Several prominent museums – including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the V&A are also in the Kensington area. This can save on travel time and costs. Entry is free to all three, though it’s worth checking whether online booking is required.
• Take the tube to the palace. High Street Kensington is a good one to go for, as it’s on both the Circle and District lines. You can also find lots of shops, cafes and so on right by the station. If you have access to the Central line, though, Queensway could be more convenient. 
• Try to plan your visit for a sunny day, if possible. This is tricky in a country with an often-wet climate, but exploring Kensington Gardens is far more pleasant when the sun is shining!
• The Tower of London
• Westminster Abbey
• The London Eye
• Windsor Castle
• Hampton Court Palace
• St Paul’s Cathedral

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Inside Kensington Palace, The Complete Guide

Kensington Palace is a historic treasure trove steeped in over 300 years of royal history. Nestled amidst the lush Kensington Gardens, the palace has witnessed countless tales of love, power, and intrigue.

The Stuart monarchs, King William III and Queen Mary II, acquired the country estate in the late 17th century and transformed it into a palace. Since then, Kensington Palace has played a pivotal role in the lives of British monarchs and nobility.

On a visit, you can step back in time and explore the regal halls, opulent apartments, and enchanting gardens where young royals like Queen Victoria, Princess Diana, and William and Kate lived.

In fact, the palace is a bit of a shrine to Diana, since her death in 1997.

You will see “history hotspots” around the palace where events that shaped the nation took place.

The palace is also home to a fairly good collection of royal portraits. Not the quality you’ll find at the National Portrait Gallery, but still solid nonetheless.

In this Kensington Palace guide, I tell you everything to see at the palace and give you must know tips for visiting.

>>> Click here to pre-book a timed entry ticket

Guide To Kensington Palace: What To See

Here are the highlights you’ll see on a visit. As you explore, you’ll follow a well-marked museum path with clear arrows guiding your way.

The royal apartments are those of the Stuart monarchs, William III and Mary II, Queen Mary II, Queen Anne, and King George I. They were the first British royal dynasty to call Kensington home.

You won’t see the private apartments of the modern royals. Those are strictly off limits.

King’s Staircase & Mural

The King’s Staircase was designed by William Kent. It’s marble and wrought iron.

George I also commissioned him to paint the the tromp l’oeil staircase murals in 1726. The imaginary architecture framing the painting was inspired by palaces in Rome . Every person depicted in the mural was once a visitor to the palace.

King’s State Apartments

The staircase leads you up to the first circuit of rooms, the King’s State Apartments.

You’ll pass through the Presence Camber, the Privy Chamber, the Cupola Room, the Throne Room, and the King’s Drawing Room. They all have interesting ceilings.

The Throne Room was where the monarchs and courtiers were immediately greeted by the throne and canopy of state, symbols of the monarchy. Even if the king were absent, visitors would still be expected to bow to the throne.

The Presence Chamber has a Pompeiian style fresco of Apollo in his chariot, inspired by villas like the House of Augustus in Rome.

The Privy Chamber has a magnificent ceiling painted by William Kent in 1723. It depicts the Roman gods of Mars and Minerva surrounded by allegories of the arts and sciences.

Kent was also responsible for the ceiling in the Cupola Room. The strange object you see in the center of the room is an oversize music box that played music by Handel.

The King’s Drawing Room caused a famous royal argument. In 1735, while King George was away, Queen Caroline replaced the Italian paintings with artworks by Anthony Van Dyke.

This infuriated the king! He insisted they be re-installed. Even the “Fat Venus” painting by Giorgio Vasari that Caroline hated.

King’s Gallery

The King’s Gallery was built for William II in 1700. But it was redecorated in 1725 by Kent.

It’s now done up in red damask and red curtains. Seven large ceiling frescos show scenes from the life of Ulysses.

There are paintings by the 16th and 17th century Italian artists, including Veronese, Bassano, and Tintoretto.

Queen’s State Apartments

In the Queen’s apartments, the museum lifts the curtain on the lives of Mary II, Queen Anne, and the House of Stuart family.

As was the fashion of the day, the rooms are deliberately plainer and more intimate than those of the king.

You will stroll through the Queen’s Gallery, the Queen’s Closet, the Queen’s Dining Room, and the Queen’s Bedroom.

The Queen’s Gallery has portraits of William and Mary. This was a social room, where the queen’s ladies in waiting would gather.

If the queen needed an escape, she withdrew to the Queen’s Closet. It’s a wood paneled room hung with blue silk damask and filled with lacquer furniture. It displays Mary’s porcelain collection and was once filled with pillows for her pugs.

The Jewel Room displays jewelry that Prince Albert commissioned for Queen Victoria.

There is a magnificent diamond and emerald tiara, emerald necklace, earrings and a broach. You can see the exquisite craftsmanship of 19th century goldsmiths and Prince Albert’s unique design tastes.

There are also two diamond tiaras, the Kokoshnik tiara and Fife tiara. They belonged to her granddaughter, Princess Louise.

Victoria often chose to wear a tiara instead of a crown to avoid an overt display of superiority over her husband.

Victoria: Royal Childhood Exhibit

Queen Victoria was born at Kensington Palace on May 24, 1819. On that day, she was 5th in line for the throne.

Her parents traveled to England from Germany so that their baby could be born in England. She arrived safely, with her mum saying she was “a pretty little Princess, plump as a partridge.”

This exhibit follows the young princess’ journey from her birth to the bitter feuds that plagued her adolescence to her formative years as one of Britina’s most significant monarchs.

As a young girl, Victoria loved dressing up, writing stories, and making costumes for her dolls. She loved going to the opera and ballet.

During that time, the palace was governed by a strict set of rules known as the “Kensington System,” devised by the Victoria’s mother and her advisor, Sir John Conroy.

This system aimed to control and isolate the young princess and restrict her contact with the outside world. Not surprisingly, this lead to conflicts within the royal family and Victoria’s rebellion.

At age 18, Victoria became queen and moved into Buckingham Palace. Her coronation took place at Westminster Abbey .

At age 20, Victoria married Prince Albert. It was a love match that produced 9 children.

Palace Gardens

Much care and expense has been lavished on the palace gardens, which changed depending on the royal in residence and the current fashion.

In 2012, the gardens were again transformed, reconnecting the building with its landscape setting.

One thing that remains is Queen Anne’s magnificent Orangery. It’s a Baroque style brick building designed by the architect Sir John Vanbrugh.

It was originally used to house and protect citrus trees and other tender plants during the winter months.

The Sunken Garden is one of the pretties parts of the garden. It was a favorite haunt of Princess Diana. And a bronze statue of Diana was unveiled in 2021, on what would have been her 60th birthday.

Prince Harry and Meghan posed for their engagement photos in the Sunken Garden in 2017.

The best part is that you don’t need a ticket to visit the gardens.

Who Lived At Kensington Palace?

So who lived at Kensington Palace and what were some of the famous goings on?

In its 300 year history, the palace was a venue for personal rivalry and intrigue. The palace even bills itself as the original fashion catwalk.

The first couple to make Kensington a royal palace were William and Mary, who reigned from 1689 to 1702. Mary wasn’t pleased with the match, but they became a loving couple.

In the late 17th century, Queen Anne, the younger sister of Mary, lived there.

Her close relationship with her confidant and rumored lover, Sarah Churchill, the Duchess of Marlborough, was the subject of much court gossip.

In 1710, they had a rousing fight in the Queen’s Closet and fell out forever. The Churchills were ostracized from the royal court.

In the 18th century, Kensington Palace was the residence of King George II and Queen Caroline. Their tumultuous marriage was marked by numerous extramarital affairs and scandals, some of which played out within the palace walls.

The king didn’t even get along with his son, who would become George III (the king who lost the colonies).

In May 1818, the future Queen Victoria was born in the palace.

On June 20, 1837, she was awoken early in the morning and told she was the new sovereign. As I mentioned above, she relished her independence and banished her mother to the other end of the palace.

Princess Margaret, the sister of Elizabeth II, lived at Kensington Palace with Lord Snowden, a fashionable photographer.

They led a vibrant social life and hosted glamorous parties for a time. But they eventually divorced over extramarital divorces, which caused “open warfare” at the palace.

In 1982, then Prince Charles and Princess Diana moved in to Apartments 8 and 9. Diana transformed from a shy young woman into a stylish princess and hands on mother. Prince William and Harry grew up in the palace.

After the couple separated, Diana continued to live in Apartment 9. In her palace sitting room, the “people’s princess” gave her famous candid interview to Marin Bashir, in which she smashed taboos about what a royal could say in public.

Upon Diana’s death, thousands of flowers and bouquets were left at the palace. It’s one of the most iconic images of the palace.

In 2013, Prince William and Kate Middleton, then known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, moved in to Apartment 1A for a few years. They converted Diana’s Apartment 9 into administrative offices.

Today, the palace is still a haunt for young royals.

Practical Guide & Tips For Kensington Palace

Address : Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX. The entrance is near the Queen Victoria statue, which is currently under restoration. The palace is a stop on the hop on hop off bus tour .

Hours : From March 1 to October 31, open Wednesday through Sunday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. In winter, open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Admission :

25.40 euros adults, 20.30 euros seniors and students, and 12.70 euros for children under 15.

Click here to pre-book a timed entry ticket. There will be two entry lines corresponding to the time on your ticket. So be sure to get in the correct line.

The palace is also included in the  London Pass . You may want to book a royal Kensington walking tour .

There are leather bound guides for each room, describing its contents and the paintings. You can take still photos. But you can’t use flash or take videos. No selfie sticks or tripods either.

If you are expecting to see the royal dress collection, it’s actually housed at Windsor Castle . Princess Diana’s dresses have been on display in the past. There is currently a temporary exhibit of her wedding dress, with its famous 25 foot train, in the Orangery.

Special Exhibitions :

The palace puts on special exhibitions. They seem to be geared toward fashion. When I’ve visited, I’ve seen an exhibit on Princess Dianas’s dresses and another on Crown to Couture. Unfortunately, the last exhibit obscured some of the historical paintings.

Afternoon Tea :

If you can’t resist an elegant tea, Kensington Palace offers them in the pavilion. You’ll definitely need to book a spot in advance anytime between 10:00 am and 4:30 pm.

>>> Click here to book a garden tour with high tea

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to Kensington Palace. You may enjoy these other London travel guides and resources:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Hidden Gems in London
• Tourist Traps To Avoid in London
• Best Museums in London
• Day Trips from London
• Harry Potter Places in London
• Guide to the Tower of London
• Guide to the Churchill War Rooms
• Guide To the National Gallery of Art

If you need a guide to Kensington Palace, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on November 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Top 10 Things To See at Kensington Palace in London in 2024

Angel Castellanos Last Updated: September 26, 2023

Heading to London and not sure whether to visit Kensington Palace or what to see there? The answer is yes! The palace has been home to members of the royal family for 300 years. It’s full of history and a definite must-see. To make sure you don’t miss the highlights, I’ve listed the top things to see at Kensington Palace with a bit of history to guide you.

Pro Tip:  It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our  London Guide and the top restaurants near the palace. Also, the best way to visit is on a  guided London tour —you won’t have to worry about tickets and your guide will make sure you see it all!

The 10 Best Things To See at Kensington Palace

If you’re in London, visiting Kensington Palace is a must. For over three centuries, it was home to the kings and queens of England. Its walls have seen many historical events that shaped the nation.

In the 19th century, a young princess was born here. Queen Victoria grew up in the palace and became one of the most famous queens in British history. She moved out of Kensington Palace and was the last reigning monarch to live there.

For most of the 20th century, Kensington Palace was also home to minor royal family members. So many of Queen Victoria’s relations and grandchildren were living at the palace in the early part of the 20th century that King Edward VIII famously called the palace “the Aunt heap.”

In recent decades, Diana, Princess of Wales, called the palace home. Who could forget the moving images of the sea of flowers laid against the south fence as the nation mourned her? Her children, Prince William and Prince Harry, continued to live in Kensington Palace until recent years.

It’s this long Royal history that makes Kensington Palace an important place and a must-see on your trip to London. To help you get the most out of your visit, here are the top things to see at Kensington Palace. Want to know all about the history of London’s great monuments? See the city with an expert guide in our top-rated London tours .

Not ready to book a tour? See if London tours are worth it .

10. Bronze Statue of King William III

The statue on the south side of Kensington Palace is of King William III. It was presented to King Edward VII in 1907. The statue is a fine example of bronze casting and is considered an essential work of art in its own right.

King William III was one of the most influential and important figures in British history. This statue is a testament to his legacy. He ruled as King of England and Scotland from 1689 to 1702 and played a crucial role in shaping Britain’s political and cultural landscape during the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

William, the Stadtholder, or ruler of the United Netherlands, married his cousin Mary. She was James II’s elder daughter. After several false starts, William invaded. James abdicated the throne, and a joint rule between the English Mary and her Dutch husband, William, was proposed and accepted.

William, who had asthma, could not live comfortably by the river at the damp old Palace of Whitehall. They acquired Nottingham House in Kensington as a more central London base.

With the help of the architect Sir Christopher Wren, William and Mary began to make great revisions and additions to Nottingham House. At this point, it became Kensington Palace.

Location: Statue of William III of Orange

9. The Iconic Statue of Queen Victoria by Princess Louise

You’ll find the statue of Queen Victoria outside Kensington Palace on Broad Walk, facing the large round pond. Many visitors don’t know that Princess Louise, the sixth daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, was a talented artist and the sculptor behind this imposing statue. Her home studio was inside Kensington Palace.

The statue, in honor of her mother’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897, features a young Queen Victoria sitting on a throne. She is portrayed in her coronation robes, with a crown on her head and a scepter in her hand. Inscribed are the words “Queen Victoria, Empress of India, Born May 24, 1819, Ascended the Throne June 20, 1837, Died January 22, 1901.”

The statue of Queen Victoria is a testament to the love and admiration that Princess Louise had for her mother and serves as a reminder of the queen’s reign, which was, until recently, the longest in British history.

Location: Queen Victoria Statue

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This is the perfect tour for someone who wants to get to know the real Westminster Abbey. With skip-the-line entry, you get some quiet time in the nave of the abbey with your guide and small group before exploring the tombs of notable kings, queens, philosophers, and more. Depending on the day, you’ll even get to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out the best London tours to take and why .

8. The Sunken Garden

Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, the sunken garden outside Kensington Palace is a tranquil oasis in the heart of London. You might remember it from HRH Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex’s engagement to Meghan Markle.

The garden is a perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are a series of formal flowerbeds arranged in a symmetrical pattern, which feature a vibrant display of blooms throughout the year. The garden is also home to a beautiful fountain. The latest edition is the touching memorial statue to the late Diana, Princess of Wales.

The sunken garden was created in the late 19th century and restored to its former glory in recent years. In the official biography of Queen Mary of Teck (the Grandmother of the late Queen Elizabeth II), royal biographer Hennesy-Pope notes that she spent many hours here while growing up in the palace. Her future father-in-law, King Edward VII, opened the gardens the way we see them today in 1909.

The garden is open to the public and free to visit. You can enjoy a stroll through the garden or simply sit and take in the peaceful surroundings. It’s a true hidden gem and a must-visit for anyone looking for a moment of calm amid busy London life.

Location: Princess Diana Memorial Garden

7. The Orangery

The Orangery at Kensington Palace is a historic external building and an architectural gem. Nicholas Hawksmoor (who has a fantastic restaurant named after him) built the Orangery in the late 17th century for Queen Anne. It served as a greenhouse for the palace’s orange trees.

If you’re looking for a place for afternoon tea, look no further. You can go to the small café as you exit the palace or you can have tea in the stunning Orangery, which is one of the top places to have Afternoon Tea in London .

Inside the Orangery, you’ll find an elegant interior. There are high ceilings, large windows, and intricate details. The building’s original architectural features have been carefully preserved and incorporated into the modern design, which add a touch of historic charm to the space. Beautiful gardens, including the Sunken Garden, surround the Orangery.

Location: The Orangery

6. The King’s State Apartments

The King’s State Apartments at Kensington Palace are a series of beautifully furnished rooms fit for royalty. These opulent rooms aim to impress visiting dignitaries and courtiers.

Within the State Apartments, you’ll see the King’s Staircase (pictured), The Presence Chamber, The Privy Chamber, The Cupola Room, and the King’s Gallery. All of these magnificent spaces will transport you to 17th-century England.

The apartments are in their original grandeur due to meticulous restoration. They feature ornate ceilings, elaborate chandeliers, and stunning works of art. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the gilded moldings, intricate carvings, and the richly colored fabrics adorning the walls and furnishings.

Each room has its own unique style and character. They reflect the tastes and preferences of the monarchs living in the palace. From the formal Drawing Room to the regal Throne Room, each space is a testament to the opulence and luxury of life at the palace during the reigns of King William III and Queen Mary II.

Today, the King’s State Apartments at Kensington Palace are open to the public. When you visit, you’ll get a glimpse of the British monarchy’s rich history and lavish lifestyle.

Location: Kensington Palace

5. The King’s Gallery

The King’s Gallery at Kensington Palace is a magnificent long gallery that King William III once used for private and public functions. This grand space, which runs the length of the palace, is lined with large windows. They flood the space with ample natural light and offer stunning views of the palace gardens.

Sir Christopher Wren, the architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, built this wing of the palace. The gallery is adorned with ornate moldings, gilded details, and elaborate ceiling paintings. Together, these features create a regal atmosphere.

The King’s Gallery is home to a collection of stunning paintings, many commissioned by King William III and Queen Mary II in the late 17th century. Visitors can admire the exquisite works of art displayed along the walls, including portraits of notable figures from the time of King William III. You’ll also see critical historical events and scenes from classical mythology portrayed.

Many of the portraits are works by leading artists of the day. They feature prominent figures from the court of King William III and members of the royal family. The landscape and seascape paintings give you a glimpse into the natural world of the time. You’ll also see scenes from classical mythology depicting well-known stories from Greek and Roman legends. My favorite is the giant painting of the doomed King Charles I on horseback by dutch master Van Dyck.

The King’s Gallery is also known for its acoustics. It was designed to enhance music and conversation. Whether you’re a lover of art or a student of history, the paintings in the King’s Gallery at Kensington Palace are a must-see.

4. The Queen’s Apartments

The Queen’s Apartments at Kensington Palace are a series of luxurious rooms that the queens of England once used. These elegant spaces are rich in history. They reflect the tastes and preferences of the many monarchs who have lived in the palace over the centuries.

Queen Anne had a famous friendship with Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough. Their relationship is the basis of the Hollywood movie, “The Favourite.” These are the rooms where their tumultuous relationship played out.

The apartments feature richly colored fabrics, ornate moldings, and elegant furnishings, carefully preserved to maintain their original grandeur. You’ll love the intricate details of the gilded moldings, the delicate carvings, and the beautiful chandeliers. Each room has a unique character, reflecting the different personalities and tastes of the queens living in the palace.

From the stately bed chambers to the grand Drawing Room, each space is a testament to the opulence and luxury of life at the palace. Today, the Queen’s Apartments are open to the public, so you can get an idea of what it might be like to live like royalty.

3. Princess Victoria’s Bedroom

The iconic monarch once used this bedroom at Kensington Palace. The room features a large four-poster bed, surrounded by richly colored fabrics and elegant furnishings that maintain their original grandeur.

The bedroom is part of Queen Victoria’s State Apartments, which she lived in as a young princess and later as a queen. They include her bedroom, dressing room, and private sitting room.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of beautiful interiors, or simply looking for a fascinating experience, don’t miss these rooms that shaped the history of the monarchy.

2. The Blue Drawing Room

The Blue Drawing Room is one of the many highlights of Kensington Palace. It’s considered one of London’s finest examples of Georgian architecture (1714-1830).

The 18-year-old Queen Victoria first met her Ascension Council in the Blue Drawing Room. This council was a group of advisors and officials who helped prepare Victoria for her role as queen.

They provided her with information and guidance on the responsibilities and duties of the monarchy. This initial meeting was a significant moment in young Victoria’s reign. It marked the beginning of her journey as queen and set the stage for her long and influential reign.

This room served multiple purposes for various events during her reign. Private audiences, official receptions, and state banquets were held here. Today, you can visit the Blue Drawing Room at Kensington Palace.

1. The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection

The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection is a rotating exhibition with a fascinating display of official royal dresses and garments of national importance.

It includes a variety of garments and accessories from different periods in history. There are pieces from British royal family members such as King George III, Queen Victoria, Princess Diana, and Queen Elizabeth II.

There’s a wide range of items on rotation from elegant evening gowns, stunning wedding dresses, and ceremonial robes to practical daywear and military uniforms. If you’re interested in history and fashion, this is definitely for you.

Not ready to book a tour? Discover the top things to see at Windsor Castle .

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About Angel Castellanos

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Visiting Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace was once the home of Princess Diana and now its residents include at least two future monarchs.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: August 19, 2024

Visiting Kensington Palace in London

Home to some of the most famous (and infamous) characters in the British Royal Family, Kensington Palace is one of the best things to see in London.

You can get incredible access inside the building, but it's worth doing some planning, so here are my top tips for visiting Kensington Palace.

• A brief history of Kensington Palace
• The best things to see at Kensington Palace
• Some tips on taking a Kensington Palace tour
• The best way to get tickets for Kensington Palace
• And having afternoon tea at Kensington Palace

She stares down at me from the picture on the wall, smiling, a portrait of a happier time.

A white dress; a thin figure; short blonde hair; pearly teeth; and dazzling eyes.

This is the Princess Diana who the people remember.

In a room full of portraits here at Kensington Palace in London, it’s this one of Princess Diana that draws the most attention. It’s not surprising – her presence here always did.

You only have to cast your mind back to the hundreds of thousands of flowers placed at the gate outside after her death to see how the building and the woman were so intrinsically linked.

Once she became a royal, she never truly stopped being one. Kensington Palace may have been her sanctuary at times but it was also her prison.

And that’s why visiting Kensington Palace is so interesting. Right here in the heart of London, you can see the rooms she lived in, the corridors she walked – and you can feel a connection to the legend and the person.

Kensington Palace is included with the London Pass from Go City, which can save you a lot of money if you’re doing a lot of sightseeing.

There are tributes to the Princess Diana here – the portrait, a collection of her dresses, modern wallpaper created with sketching of her. But, although we may associate the palace with her, many imposing women have come before.

Before Diana it was Princess Margaret, the Queen’s sister. She used Kensington Palace as her residence and would host parties with some of the world’s most glamorous and interesting celebrities.

She was a controversial figure, perhaps more interesting in socialising than official duties, but it helped raise the status of the building in the eyes of royal watchers.

King Edward VIII (her uncle) had once previously called it the “aunt heap” because of the number of lesser royals who had been given rooms there. Princess Margaret certainly made it more lively.

History of Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace gets its name because it was once a private home in the village of Kensington. (Back in the early 1600s when it was built, London did not stretch out this far.)

It became a royal residence in 1689 when King William III and Queen Mary II, as joint monarchs, bought it so they could live away from Whitehall Palace and out of the city (mainly because William was asthmatic).

The monarchs used architect Christopher Wren to turn it from a country house into a palace, which he did by adding sections to what was already there.

After Mary, and then William, died, Queen Anne took Kensington Palace to be her home. She asked Christopher Wren to complete the renovations. She also added the gardens and commissioned the famous Orangery.

The last ruler to use Kensington Palace as their official residence was King George II, who died in the building in 1760.

After that, Kensington Palace was used to house minor royals, who would share the building by living in different apartments.

Princess Margaret was probably the most senior royal to live in Kensington Palace until Prince Charles and Princess Diana moved to the palace in 1981 as their official residence.

Now, of course, it is home to Prince William and his family – meaning that it is the official residence to the first, second, third, and fourth in line to the throne!

For the full experience with stories about all the famous residents, I would recommend this VIP tour of Kensington Palace that also includes a royal tea experience.

Because it is still used by the royal family, you won’t see a lot of the inside when you visit Kensington Palace, but there’s something special about knowing William and Kate could be just metres away.

Considering that, it’s actually surprising there isn’t more security (although maybe it’s here and just well hidden).

Things to see at Kensington Palace

The areas of Kensington Palace you can visit are essentially a museum made up of some of the older and more historical rooms.

But these exhibitions at Kensington Palace are very interesting – particularly if you don’t already have a detailed knowledge of the history of the British Royal Family.

King’s State Apartments

The largest permanent exhibition at Kensington Palace is the King’s State Apartments, the series of rooms that was used for official tasks like audiences and meetings.

As you walk through the rooms – the Presence Chamber, the Privy Chamber, the Cupola Room, and so on – you’ll notice that there is not much furniture because staff and visitors would stand when they were meeting the monarch.

But there are some exquisite sculptures and works of art on display here. The most important collection is in the King’s Gallery.

But, having said that, don’t miss the painting by Vasari of Venus and Cupid in the King’s Drawing Room. And the King’s Staircase that you enter from is a masterpiece in itself.

Queen’s State Apartments

This collection rooms were originally created for Queen Mary II in 1690 and there’s quite a lot that hasn’t changed since then.

Unlike the other rooms, the Queen’s State Apartments were made for living and so you get a much homelier feel here.

The Queen’s Dining Room was where Mary and William would eat together in private and the Queen’s Gallery is where Mary would read and do needlework, for instance.

You’ll see more wonderful pieces of art here and get an insight into the life of the royals from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Temporary exhibitions

There are always a couple of temporary exhibitions at Kensington Palace that are usually on display for at least one or two years before being changed.

These exhibitions generally focus on previous residences of the palace and the recent collections on display have been about Princess Diana’s fashion and the life of Queen Victoria.

I find these temporary exhibitions really interesting because they usually give you a lot more personal information than you normally find in the official stories of the Royal Family.

Kensington Palace tours

Although there is good signage within the palace, there’s only so much information you can get from information boards.

Most of the interesting facts and stories that I’m learning about is coming from the tour guide who is showing me through Kensington Palace.

My guide, Alison, seems to be able to answer any tricky question I throw her. (“What does the Queen see when she looks out her window at Buckingham Palace?” I throw in at one point just to test her – and she does admirably.)

The history is just as interesting as the stories you read in the magazines these days, though. The most imposing figure presented through the museum is Queen Victoria, the longest-serving British monarch until Queen Elizabeth II.

She was living in Kensington Palace when she became queen at the age of 18. Although she moved to Buckingham Palace after her coronation, the rooms where she grew up have now been dedicated to her life.

On display are fascinating items like childhood toys, presents and even her wedding dress. Photographs show her decline in mood after the death of her husband, Prince Albert.

My guide, Alison, explains that Victoria blamed her eldest son for her husband’s because he got sick after travelling to confront him about a scandal.

The Kensington Palace tour is fascinating and ultimately it is more about the people and their stories than the building itself.

The best option available is this VIP Kensington Palace tour , which will show you through the building and the garden – and includes a royal tea experience.

Alternatively, there’s this good tour where the guide will show you around Kensington and tell you lots of stories, but then leave you to explore the palace at your own pace.

Some other options that include Kensington Palace or its surrounds are here:

Even if you don’t get a real sense of what it is like to live in Kensington Palace today, you will come away with an excellent understanding of some of the people who once called it home.

Tickets for Kensington Palace

Regardless of whether you’re going to take a tour of Kensington Palace or not, it’s worth being a bit prepared to save yourself time.

There can often be a long line to buy a ticket, so trying to avoid the busiest parts of the day would be a good start. You can save some time when you visit Kensington Palace by booking a ticket in advance for a specific time slot.

Tickets for Kensington Palace are quite expensive so it’s worth considering whether one of the tourist cards for London would save you money if you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing.

The best option is the London Pass from Go City , where you can choose different durations from 1 day to 10 days. It gives you free entry to about 80 attractions in London, including Kensington Palace, along with other benefits.

It may seem like a big upfront cost, but you definitely save a lot of money if you’re planning to see a few sights. You can buy the London Pass here .

Another option, although it may not seem the obvious thing to do, is become a member of the Historic Royal Palaces . (If you’re not a UK resident, it’s best to do it in person than online, because otherwise they’ll try to mail your card to you.)

The membership gets you unlimited entry to Kensington Palace, Tower of London , Hampton Court Palace, and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. (Which, for example, would cost £89 for standard adult tickets to see them all.)

For an individual membership, it costs £65, or just £100 for two adults at the same address. The real value is for a family (two adults and up to six children), which is £120.

Where is Kensington Palace?

The official address of Kensington Palace is Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX. You can see it on a map here .

How do you get to Kensington Palace?

If you’re coming by the Underground, the closest stations are High Street Kensington (District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines) or Queensway (Central line). Both stations are less than ten minutes’ walk away. If you’re coming by bus, you can use routes 70, 94 and 148 along Bayswater Road, or routes 9, 49, 52, 70 and 452 along Kensington High Street.

When is Kensington Palace open?

Kensington Palace is open every day from March to October from 10:00 – 18:00. From November to February, the palace is open from 10:00 – 18:00. Last admission is an hour before closing time.

How much is entry to Kensington Palace?

Admission to Kensington Palace costs £24 for an adult and £12 for children under 16.

Do you need to buy tickets in advance?

Kensington Palace uses a time entry ticket system and it means you may have to wait if you buy a ticket when you get there. I would recommend getting a ticket in advance so you don’t have to wait a long time in a queue. I would also suggest using the London Pass from Go City to save a lot of money if you’re going to be doing other sightseeing while you’re here.

You can find out more information at the official Kensington Palace website .

And, if you need a rest after exploring the palace, or if you’re looking for a special London experience, there’s one more thing I want to tell you about.

Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace

How British to take afternoon tea. And how royal to have one’s afternoon tea in Kensington Palace Gardens!

After being closed for several years for refurbishment, the Orangery is again open for tea. The baroque-styled restaurant was built in 1704-05 for Mary’s younger sister, Anne, who became Queen when William died.

The official afternoon tea includes sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea or coffee, although there are other options to have a drink or something to eat.

Remember, this VIP Kensington Palace tour also includes a royal tea experience, so it’s a great way to combine everything!

Regardless of how you plan your visit, this is a fascinating insight into the royal history of London – some of it well before we were born, but some of it part of meaningful moments during our lifetime.

Yes, it’s been the home of royalty, but it’s one that many people feel a connection to.

11 thoughts on “Visiting Kensington Palace”

I felt the same in terms of not really getting to see much of the building itself. It was the main reason I visited and I left feeling a bit disappointed. I did however love the main staircase inside regardless of whether it is modernised or not and the gardens in full bloom are beautiful.

The way it has been presented is much more as a museum than an authentic representation of what the palace would have been like (or is like). I get the feeling people often don’t know what to expect (I was one of them). I enjoyed hearing all the stories from my guide, though, and it was actually a good way to learn a lot more about British royal history.

I completely agree about the walking/guided tours. I’m all for self exploration and discovery, but some places (like this one!) is “hollow” without someone knowledgeable bringing it to life. Thanks for the post – I’ve really enjoyed hearing about it!

I’m just like you. You get so much information out of guided tours, it’s important to know which places are worth doing one. I found the same thing with the Tower of London too – there is lots to see but it’s the stories and the history that really make it worthwhile.

I really enjoyed our visit to Kensington Palace – I found it much more interesting than Buckingham Palace. Mainly because of the theories that it’s haunted and that a lot of the women who’ve lived there have been there during unhappy times in their lives. Did you learn about the spookiness of the place? I wrote a blog about it too >> http://double-barrelledtravel.com/the-cursed-palace-top-5-haunted-tales-of-kensington-palace/

Great post! I didn’t actually learn too much about the spookiness of it so that’s a great read. The women were definitely unhappy there often, that’s true. Maybe I’ll have to go back and look for the ghosts next time!!

Well, first of all, I want your camera. Beautiful photos. Striking, brilliant colours. I might have visited this residence years and years ago, but I’ve forgotten now. What a treat for people who aren’t able to travel to London. Your tour was great.

Thanks, Christopher. There’s actually nothing too special about my camera – I use a Canon 600D which is an entry-level DSLR from a few years ago. I do edit the shots a bit to give them a bit more brightness and colour normally but don’t do anything else fancy. I try to make an effort to not take the same shots as other tourists, though. I think if you play around with angles and stuff, you can make things look a lot more interesting.

I’ve been to Buckingham Palace when it is open for a brief time in the summer, but not to Kensington Palace. I would love this tour because I am a bit obsessed with the Royals!

Interesting post and pretty pictures! It sounds like a guide definitely made it more worthwhile. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks, Mary. Yeah, I really enjoyed all the stories and extra information.

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Ultimate Guide To Visiting Kensington Palace

I’ve always been fascinated by the history of British Royalty, I mean princesses, ball gowns and far-fetched tales – Whats not to like?

Thus, during a trip to Notting Hill (London) late this summer, I decided to make time to visit the nearby Kensington Palace, and I totally fell in love! For one, no place is more steeped in royal history…. Ok, Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace, and Balmoral also lay a pretty good claim to the aforementioned statement. However, my point is, Kensington Palace has a strange sense of celebrity around it. For example, it’s where William and Kate have opted to bring up their children. More than this, it was also the childhood home of Queen Victoria and countless other historic royals.

In this way, I feel that Kensington Palace should be on everyone’s to do list when visiting London! Need more convincing? Below I’ve compiled an  ultimate guide to visiting Kensington Place.   So keep reading for all the information, tips and advice you could possibly need for this very elegant and charming Palace.

SIDE NOTE: for those who have been following my Bali Island Hopping Adventure . Fear not, I have not forgotten my Ubud instalment! It’s on the way. 😉

Key information – 

The first question that needs to be addressed is: can the public visit Kensington Palace? The obvious answer here is yes , otherwise I wouldn’t be writing this post ;). Here’s some more information you may find handy:

Kensington Palace Opening Hours –

Unlike the more famous Buckingham Palace , Kensington is open all year round! However visiting hours vary according to whether its Summer  (01 March – 31 October) whereby the grounds are open 10am-6pm, or Winter  (01 November – 28 February) whereby it shuts at the earlier time of 4pm.

Palace tickets –

Tickets to visit Kensington Palace can be bought via the official website for £15.50 (entry is free for children under 15). This said, during peak periods tickets normally sell out ahead of time. So, be prepared and book early!

However, if like me, you leave everything to the last minute (shame on you) then you can also buy tickets from lastminute.com . From here they’re a little more expensive – around £17, but the website can be a lifesaver when dates are seemingly sold out on the palace’s website.

Failing this, there is one final way to get your Kensington Palace tickets: on the day. It is possible to turn up at the palace and buy your tickets ‘on the door’. Having said this, I would try and avoid this third option as there can be a long wait. ‘Walk up’ entrance is totally dependant on the number of people already waiting in line with pre-bought tickets.

TOP TIP:  Even with tickets, there can be a queue to get into the palace. For example, I had to wait around 20 minutes. Therefore, if you have a busy day planned I suggest arriving just as the doors open to avoid the crowds. 🙂

Getting To Kensington Palace –

Based in the center of London, the easiest way to get to Kenginston Palace is by tube. The closest station is Queensway,  which is only a two minute walk away, through the very scenic grounds of Hyde Park.

For more Kensington Palace visitor information,  check out their website.

Permanent Exhibitions at Kensington Palace – 

Now all the boring information is out of the way, we can move onto the interesting part of my  Ultimate Guide To Visiting Kensington Palace : what you can expect to find.

The palace has several permanent exhibits that are both fascinating and beautiful:

King’s State Apartment –

The first exhibit you’ll come across once you’ve passed through security, and had your ticket scanned, is the King’s State Apartment . Here you’ll find Kensington Palace’s most opulent rooms, which to be honest, were my favourite… I am after all a girl of fine tastes. 😉

The grandeur and history of these historic rooms begin’s in the stair-well. All you have to do is look up to be amazed by intricate ceiling paintings and gold leafed trims:

Next, glide up the King’s Staircase  where a vivid reaction of George I’s court (by William Kent) throws you into 18th century court life. The artwork comes alive with the characters depicted. Meanwhile, the whole room is elegant, somewhat feminine, but altogether beautiful – the perfect introduction to Kensington Palace.

Moving through the apartment you’ll encounter many more interesting rooms such as the Presence Chamber and the Privy Chamber , which grants fabulous views over the front lawns. However, what blew me away the most was the Kings Gallery. 

Here, the rich red walls scream royalty and wealth. More than this though, the artwork that adorns the walls is simply stunning. I was pleased to recognise one famous piece,  by Anthony van Dyck, of Charles I on horseback,  which sits perfectly between the most beautiful golden edged doors.

However, art has never been my strong point, so I was clueless about the other masterpieces in the room. Luckily, at Kensington Palace,  each room comes equipped with written room guides. These detailed books contain everything you could possibly need to know! Thus, I was able to look up the painting’s and gain a much better idea of what was depicted.

Queen’s State Apartment –

A slight walk through the palace’s hallways brings you to the second permanent exhibit at Kensington Palace, the Queen’s State Apartment . Substantially less grand than the king’s apartment, the staterooms here are somewhat more homely. This is not surprising since they were where Queen Mary II and later royal consorts lived.

Despite being less lavish, for me, these rooms were super interesting! They help to create an image of how the palace would have looked when William III and Mary II brought Kensington and decided to turn this ordinary mansion into a home fit for royalty in 1689.

What’s more, although relatively plain and dark, the rooms are still impressive! Especially the oak staircase that remains little changed since its construction in 1690. Another highlight for me was the Queen’s bedroom where the bed displayed is said to be the birthplace of James Edward Stuart, son of King James II.

Queen Victoria Revealed –

There are currently a few further exhibits at Kensington Palace that are open for a limited time. The first of which explores the life of the palace’s most famous resident: Queen Victoria.

Named Queen Victoria revealed , this exhibit is open until the  12th of November 2017  and features many of the Queen’s personal objects such as the dolls she made as a little girl and her beautiful coronation gown. Meanwhile, the exhibit also explores her life, children, and beloved husband, Prince Albert.

As a fan of the ITV show: Victoria , it was captivating to learn more about the real-life monarch, while walking the same halls she did as a child.

TOP TIP – There is a lot of information to read and absorb in this exhibit so I would recommend touring it first while you’re still fresh to get the best out of your visit!

Enlightened Princesses –

An extension of ‘Queen Victoria Revealed’, this mini-exhibit tells the lives of three German princesses: Caroline, Augusta, and Charlotte. All of whom married into the British royal family and consequently had a huge impact on developments within 18th century Britain.

(the exhibit is also open until the 12th of November 2017)

Diana’s Fashion Story –

One final exhibit was opened this summer as a touching tribute to Princess Diana. Marking 20 years since her untimely death, the exhibit follows her ‘fashion story’ from a shy aristocrat to the most photographed women in the world.

In high contrast to the dark and historic rooms in the rest of the palace, the exhibit is bright and modern, almost as if to reflect Diana’s character! The collection on display is extraordinary and will delight fashion nuts and those simply interested in Diana a-like. Even more captivating than the dresses themselves are original fashion sketches and comments from Diana’s favourite designers. These add a personal touch to the exhibit, and I couldn’t help but be moved by the kind words spoken about the ill-fated princess.

However, I do have to say that I felt a little rushed touring the exhibit. Due to the amount of people in the room, I was naturally pushed forward onto the next dress without having time to read the description. This took away from the experience somewhat, and to be honest made me feel a tad claustrophobic.

None the less, as the exhibit is open till 2019 , I assume the crowds will be less intense once the initial excitement has died down a little!

TOP TIP:  following on from my above point, as the palace’s most popular exhibit, you have to queue to enter ‘Diana’s Fashion Story’ . If this queue appears long, head upstairs to see the Queen’s State Apartment first – when you return the queue should be a lot shorter thanks to the flow of visitors through the palace.

Palace’s Sunken Garden –

One thing you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kensington Palace, especially in spring and summer, is the beautiful Sunken Garden . Located just to the right of the palace, this small yet stunning garden is terraced, paved and decorated with ornamental flower beds and subtle fountains.

Disappointingly, you can’t actually go into the garden. However, its bordered by a natural tunnel that provides shady and magical viewpoints. These viewpoints are the perfect spot for a picnic, as you can sit on the wall overlooking the garden, taking in the hundreds of different plants, while also getting a break from the chaotic pace of London thanks to the tranquil setting.

During my visit to the palace, the Sunken Garden was remodelled into the ‘white garden’ as a further tribute to Princess Diana. Having the Garden in solely one colour was breath-taking. However, come next spring it’ll be returned to an equally as beautiful rainbow of colour.

TOP TIP:  you don’t need a ticket to visit the gardens at Kensington Palace! Thus, you can take in their beauty even if touring exhibits isn’t your thing.

Eating at Kensington Palace –

After all that walking and exploring, you’ll probably find yourself a little peckish. Thankfully there are two places to catch a bite within the Palace grounds:

The Palace Cafe –

Adjacent to the palace’s gift shop, your first dining option at Kensington is a simple cafe. Open to everyone, not just visitor’s to the palace, this little cafe always appears busy. Thus, I opted not to eat here during my visit as it was packed and has more of a family vibe.

This said, the food looked good and has largely positive ratings on TripAdvisor . In this way, the Palace Cafe is the perfect spot to refuel if you’re looking for a cuppa and/or slice of cake.

The Orangery Restaurant – 

If you’re looking for something more substantial than a snack, and a more upmarket vibe – the palace’s Orangery Restaurant hit’s the nail on the head!

Possibly one of the most beautifully decorated restaurants in London, the Orangery’s massive windows bring an abundance of light into the dining room. Meanwhile, a modern clean finish provides the perfect balance between old and new.

Famed for its afternoon tea, there’s nothing more ‘quintessentially British’ than tucking into Jam and Scones after touring one of the countries most famous palaces! More than this, the restaurant also has a pretty good lunch menu, which is surprisingly not too expensive, with main’s averaging around £15.

This said you’ll have to pre-book if you plan on eating here. I tried to get a table for one after my visit to Kensington Palace and was gutted when they couldn’t even squeeze little old me in –  thus Book your table for the Orangery now through Open Table.

So there you have it, my  Ultimate Guide To Visiting Kensington Palace.  Thanks for reading, and I hope you have an amazing time at the palace and enjoy your visit as much as I did!

Got any questions? Or have your own tips about Kensington palace to share? Get in touch in the comment section below 🙂 

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31 comments.

I have always wanted to visit Kensington Palace! I have seen such gorgeous photos and YOURS are stunning and make me want to visit right now!!

It’s so pretty that’s for sure!

It’s interesting I visited the palace probably 15 years ago and they had a exhibit of Diana’s dresses then. The Queen Victoria exhibit also sounds really interesting.

Oh really I had no clue! Yeah it was crazy to learn all about her children especially and how they moved to live all over the globe 🙂

Beautifully written blog post. I love london but have never actually been here! I tend to visit in the winter when everything looks so dull but your photos make it look really stunning! I will definitely visit it now!

Damn London’s overcast skies haha – you should definently try and visit in spring/summer the city really comes alive 🙂

Yeah I have been lucky to go in better weather but didn’t have much chance to get good photos!lol! Will put this on my to do list though!

Wow! Thats a really detailed guide and lovely photos! Thanks for this amazing post! Bookmarked 🙂

This is a helpful and detailed guide! I am bummed that I didnt get a chance to visit on my last trip to London. Your photos have definitely convinced me that I need to book a return trip!

Thankyou for your lovely comment! The only problem with London is there’s so much to fit in, a return trip is certainly advised 😉

The Kings Staircase… A DREAM! I feel like I’ve seen that in so many movie scenes!

I know its so pretty!! I have to admit to walking up a few times haha

I LOVED Kensington Palace when we visited in 2015! I hope I get to go back. Hyde Park was definitely a highlight. The Kings Staircase I loved imagining royalty walking around. Such a beautiful place.

Agreed Hyde Park is the perfect backdrop… Me too haha

I’m currently living in London and always looking for new things to do and new places to visit, this is great! I’m adding it my list right now.

Glad to have helped 🙂

This is a very thorough post with great pics. Kensington Palace definitely seems like a great outing, will think about adding it to my list next time I’m in the UK!

Thank you for reading!!

Dang, I wish I would have known about this when I visited London! Unfortunately, I was only there for a few days, so perhaps if I visit again, I’ll remember this.

Only problem with London! So much to do in such a little time 🙂

I’m so sad I missed this when I went in March! I went to the more popular Buckingham palace. This looks like a great place to explore for a few hours. Your pictures are great!

Buckingham palace is on my to do list for next year!! Thank you 🙂

Such a beautiful day at Kensington Palace! I was in London 2 years ago and road my bike around the area but never went inside for a tour. Reading this post makes we wish I would have! I will have to do this on my next trip.

The area is so lovely in itself!!

Great post! Lovely to get a sneak peak into Kensington Palace. After working in London for over a year I can’t believe I haven’t visited yet… There’s so much more to do and see than I realised too! I’m definitely going to plan a day trip to explore, and especially sample an afternoon tea at The Orangery! Thanks for sharing such lovely pics and detailed insights 🙂

There’s so much in London I’m yet to do as well so I feel you aha! Thanks for your lovely comment, hope you enjoy your visit 🙂

It looks like a beautiful palace. I love exploring historic palaces when I visit Europe. I didn’t realize that you could tour Kensington, so this is great information!

Me too I find it so interesting! Thanks for reading 🙂

What a comprehensive guide! So much useful information, maybe one day I will make it out to visit!

Such a detailed post. Very useful. Bookmarked. 🙂

Thanks for reading and your lovely comment 🙂

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Kensington Palace, London

Kensington palace's history.

Kensington Palace has a rich royal history. It can boast of being the birth place of Queen Victoria and the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, not to mention being the home of a host of Georgian monarchs who have all left their mark on this impressive Palace.

You can explore their vast state apartments which contain an array of beautiful paintings and sculptures.

Kensington Palace is located at the western end of Kensington Gardens which extends seamlessly from Hyde Park, London's largest royal park.

In recent times the late Princess Diana is often associated with Kensington Palace, and around Kensington Palace there are reminders of her life from the official memorial to her, a children's playground, she even has a local cafe that she used to frequent with her children dedicated to her memory.

Why not make it an extra special London day out and combine your Kensington Palace tickets with Fish and Chips meal from Poppie's Restaurant ?

BOOK TICKETS   What you'll see   Opening times & location   About Kensington Palace tickets   Kensington Palace with attraction pass/2FOR1   Other royal palaces in London  

KENSINGTON PALACE TICKETS

Visit the former home of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana, official London home of HRH William and HRH Kate

• Admission to Kensington Palace and Gardens • King's and Queen's State Apartments • Paintings from the Royal Collection • Sunken garden • The King’s Drawing Room, the Cupola Room and Queen Caroline’s Closet • Changing exhibitions

KENSINGTON PALACE AND FISH & CHIPS MEAL

Kensington Palace tickets & Fish & Chips meal

• Admission to Kensington Palace and Gardens • King's and Queen's State Apartments • Paintings from the Royal Collection • Fish & Chips Meal from Poppie's Restaurant

Kensington Palace - what will I see?

Once inside, you explore the extravagant rooms and spaces that have figured in many royal dramas through the ages. Wander through the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, where you’ll see rare works from the Royal Collection.

The Queen's apartments were where Mary, and later royal consorts, lived. This is where they had their bedroom, took their meals, entertained their friends and distinguished guests, and relaxed.

The King’s apartments looks at more formal aspects of royal life where the monarch received courtiers, ministers and foreign ambassadors.

At the Jewel Room you can see an incredible suite of jewellery, including specially commissioned gems for Queen Victoria, such as her beautiful tiara.

Kensington Palace Gardens

Finish your Kensington Palace tour by heading outside to walk through the exquisite and popular Kensington Palace Gardens. Here you can visit the Sunken Garden, where you can see the statue of Diana, Princess of Wales, commissioned by her sons and unveiled in 2021, for what would have been her 60th birthday. (Specific opening times apply.)

Kensington Palace official website

Kensington Palace - opening times and location

We recommend allowing around 2 hours to visit.

Kensington Palace opening times

Kensington Palace is is open 7 days a week all year round, except 24 - 26 December.

Doors open at 10am and closing time is 6pm with last entry 1 hour prior. In the winter months, November to February closing time is 4pm.

Location of Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace Palace is situated within Kensington Gardens a royal park that is seamlessly joined to Hyde Park. There is lots to do and see within Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens and especially at weekends there are large events from concerts to fun runs.

Within easy walking distance is Portobello Market, the Royal Albert Hall, Harrods Department Store and the South Kensington Museums (Science Museum, National History Museum and V&A Museum).

Nearest Underground station

Queensway Underground Station (Central Line) is opposite a main entrance to Kensington Gardens. It's a 5-10 minute walk past the Princess Diana Children's Playground to the palace itself.

Hop-on, hop-off buses

All of London's hop on, hop off sightseeing buses have a stop for Kensington Palace on the south side of Kensington Gardens. Big Bus also have a stop on the north side of Kensington Gardens at Bayswater very close to Queensway Underground Station.

Worth knowing

We have a self-guided Kensington walk that visits Kensington Palace, as well as Portobello Market, South Kensington Museums and much more.

Kensington Palace tickets

Tickets are priced for adults age 18 - 64 years . Concessions are available for children, full-time students, seniors and people with a disability.

Tickets must be booked in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment. Visitor numbers are limited and many dates and timeslots are sold out in advance.

Third party sellers

Tickets from third party sellers (banner link below) typically match the price of tickets from the Kensington Palace official website, (link above).

Queues at Kensington Palace

Entrance queues at Kensington Palace are not really an issue, as the pre-booking system which requires you to book in advance runs smoothly.

Group ticket savings for 15 or more people

Groups of 15 people or more can save on ticket prices . Online group tickets are valid only for the date selected and cannot be refunded or exchanged.

Passes and promotions

London Pass holders must pre-book tickets in advance through the London Pass website.

Save more on Kensington Palace tickets with a pass or promotion

Combo Ticket: Kew Gardens and Kensington Palace

Enjoy a double dose of Royal pleasure. Combine entry tickets to both Kew Gardens and Kensington Palace, two of England's most important heritage sites.

Your package includes a special digital guide for an entrancing exploration of London.

KEW GARDENS AND KENSINGTON PALACE TICKETS

Kew Gardens + Kensington Palace entry tickets

• Entry tickets to Kew Gardens • Entry tickets to Kensington Palace Entry tickets • Save on booking together

Kensington Palace & London's attraction passes and 2 FOR 1

2 for 1 promotion.

Railways 2 for 1 Promotion  - The railways 2 for 1 entrance promotion is valid at Kensington Palace, and you need to pre-book your tickets in advance online.

London passes

The London Pass - Kensington Palace is supported by London's most popular attraction pass, (with over 90 top London attractions ), which you visit over the number of days of your choosing. Other top attractions on the London Pass list include the Tower of London , Tower Bridge , Big Bus , London Eye , Westminster Abbey , Madam Tussauds , London Bridge Experience , Windsor Castle , Chessington World of Adventures , View from the Shard , Hampton Court Palace, London Zoo , and St. Paul's Cathedral . The London Pass offers incredible savings over buying individual attraction tickets.

Go City London Explorer Pass - this pass is similar to the London Pass only instead of allowing entry for a set number of days, it gives entry for up to 60 days, and you purchase by the number of attractions you wish to visit.

To purchase either of these passes follow the banner links below.

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The more you visit, the more you save

• Access 90+ London attractions including Tower of London, London Eye, Madame Tussauds, London Zoo, Chessington World of Adventures, London Bridge Experience, Thames River Cruise, Tower Bridge, St. Paul's, Westminster Abbey, The View from Shard, Windsor Castle, Big Bus , and many more... • 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 10 day passes available.

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Other royal palaces in and around London

Tower of London Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066-7 and enlarged and modified by successive sovereigns, today the Tower of London is one of the world's most famous and spectacular fortresses. In its time it has been a royal palace, a fortress, a prison, an armory, a treasury and an astronomical observatory. The Tower of London now displays the Crown Jewels.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle is one of three official residences of The Queen and has been home to the Sovereign for over 900 years. The Queen would call Windsor Castle her home.

The Castle is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the oldest in continuous occupation. The imposing towers and battlements of the Castle loom large from every approach to the town, creating one of the world's most spectacular skylines.

Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain's sovereigns since 1837. Today it is the administrative headquarters of the Crown and is the main venue for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Hampton Court Palace Henry VIII's place, and also a top day out for adults and kids alike. Don't forget the fabulous maze, as well as demonstrations, talks, etc. Proper 'Living History.'

Kew Palace (with Kew Gardens) Open from March - September, Kew Palace, once the home of George III and Queen Charlotte, requires a valid ticket for Kew Gardens to enter. See the Great Pagoda (which can be climbed with a separate ticket), Queen Charlotte's Cottage and the Palace itself with Royal Kitchens.

Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace and Windsor Castle - all included with London Pass

The London Pass can save you £££'s on walk-up entry prices for over 80 of London's top attractions.

Included in the pass are the Tower of London , Kensington Palace , Windsor Castle , Kew Palace & Gardens , The King's Gallery , and Hampton Court Palace . In addition other top attractions such as London Zoo , Westminster Abbey , St. Paul's and View from the Shard are included.

POPULAR LONDON ATTRACTIONS - ADVANCE PURCHASE AND/OR FAST TRACK TICKETS

Kensington Palace – tickets, prices, hours, what to see

Kensington Palace has stood by the British Royal family since the 17th century.

The walls of the Palace tell tales about Queen Vitoria’s childhood, King George II’s death, and everything in between.

Today the Palace serves as home to various royal families of England including, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

In this article, we explain everything you need to know before you visit Kensington Palace.

Top Kensington Palace Tickets

# Kensington Palace tickets # Royal Palaces Pass

Table of contents

What to expect.

Since Queen Victoria’s public opening in 1899, the Palace has played an important role as a private residence and a public museum.

You will see the Grand Staircase, explore the King’s State Apartments, and visit the King’s Gallery. 

The opulent Cupola and Drawing Room pull you into a world of royalty, where history and grandeur come together.

Explore the Palace Gardens, including the serene Cradle Walk, the picturesque Sunken Garden, and many more.

With your Kensington Palace tickets, you will also get access to: 

• The Jewel Room
• The King’s Staircase
• The Queen’s State Apartments

You can read more about ticket inclusions in the ‘Inside the Palace’ section below.

Where to book tickets

Tickets for the Kensington Palace are available online. You must pre-book your tickets for a guaranteed entry.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper because of the exciting discounts.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the entrance.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because Kensington Palace sells only limited tickets, they may sell out during peak days.

Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

How do online tickets work

Go to the Kensington Palace ticket booking page.

Select the preferred date, time slot, and number of tickets and buy the tickets immediately.

Once you purchase the tickets, they get delivered to your email address.

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket.

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.

Kensington Palace ticket prices

The entry ticket for the Kensington Palace is priced at £16 for visitors above 16 years.

Tickets for children between five and 15 years cost £8.

Full-time students and senior citizens (with a valid ID) can purchase a concession ticket for £12.

Kensington Palace tickets

The ticket gives you access to every corner of the Palace that’s open to the public. Including the beautifully landscaped gardens.

With this ticket, you can also access “Diana: Her Fashion Story” exhibition.

Children under five years of age can enter for free.

Ticket Prices

Adult ticket (16 to 64 years):   £16 Child ticket (5 to 15 years):  £8 Student ticket (with valid ID):   £12 Seniors ticket (60+ years): £12

Discount Alert:  When you book tickets to Kew Gardens and Kensington Palace together, you get an additional 10% off. You can visit the attractions on different days.  Find Out More

Back to Top

How to reach the Kensington Palace

The Kensington Palace stands wide on the grounds of a royal park, Kensington Gardens.

Address: Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, United Kingdom. Get Direction

If you are close enough, fire up your Google Maps and walk the distance. Directions to Kensington Palace

Else, public transport is the best way to get to Kensington Palace.

The Tube, Train, and Bus are very tourist-friendly and can take you from anywhere in London to the Palace.

You can get onto the bus with route numbers 70, 94, 148, or 390 and get down at Bayswater Road.

Or board any bus with route numbers 9, 10, 49, 52, 70, and 452 and get off at Kensington High Street.

The nearest tube stations to the Palace are High Street Kensington and Queensway. From both the stations, a brisk 10-15 minutes walk can take you to the Palace.

The nearest station is Paddington. It takes around 20 mins on foot to get to Kensington Palace.

By Hop-on, hop-off buses

All Hop-on, Hop-Off tour buses visit Kensington Palace.

Big Bus has a stop on the North side of the Kensington Gardens.

Note: If you don’t want to handle all the travel yourself, a hop-on hop-off bus tour of London is the best option.

Royal Palaces Pass

If you are holidaying in London for more than three days, and have a keen interest in Palaces, this is a perfect discount Pass for you.

The Royal Palaces Pass comes in two flavors –

The 3-Palace Pass, using which you can ‘skip the line’ and enter Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Gardens, and Kensington Palace.

The 4-Palace Pass, besides the top three palaces, also allows access to Banqueting House in Whitehall.

The validity of this London’s Palace Pass is two years after the first activation.

Cost of 3-Palaces Pass

For adults (16+ years):  59 Pounds For kids (5 to 15 years): 28.40 Pounds

Cost of 4-Palaces Pass

For adults (16+ years): 65 Pounds For kids (5 to 15 years):  28.40 Pounds

Important:  Or if you want to buy one Discount Pass and visit most attractions for free (and that too ‘skip the line’ access), check out the London Explorer Pass.

Kensington Palace hours

The Kensington Palace stays closed from 29 October to 12 December 2023. Only the Pavilion & Sunken Garden are open from 10 am to 4 pm from Wednesday to Sunday.

From 13 December 2023, the Kensington Palace opens at 10 am and closes at 4 pm from Wednesday to Sunday.

The Palace remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The last entry is at 3 pm.

Kensington Palace gates are open to the public throughout the year, except on 24, 25, and 26 December.

Best time to visit Kensington Palace

Being one of the popular tourist spots, Kensington Palace is busy most of the time.

The best time to visit Kensington Palace is post-lunch – from 2 pm to 3 pm because by then, the big tourist groups are done with their tours.

Since the Palace closes at 6 pm (in the summers), this will give you a good two to three hours to explore this London attraction.

In winter you must reach the attraction by 2 pm because it closes early – at 4 pm.

For parents visiting with children, the last Saturday of the month is the best option because the Kensington Palace organizes various activities for kids under 13 years.

Go ahead,  buy Kensington Palace tickets .

When you  buy Kew Gardens and Kensington Palace tickets  together, you get a 10% discount code, which you can use (five times!) to get discounts on future purchases.

Inside Kensington Palace

The 300-year-old history of the British Royal family is visible both outside and inside the Kensington Palace.

Here are the must-see places in Kensington Palace.

The Palace Gardens

The Kensington Gardens have evolved with the Monarchs of England.

They started as playgrounds centuries ago.

The flower beds were added by William and Mary.

In 1702 they were modified as an English-style garden by Queen Anne.

Queen Caroline, in 1928 ensured lakes and ponds adorned the gardens.

The Queen’s State Apartment

Dedicated to Queen Mary, Queen’s State Apartment dictates the story of Monarchs and reflects their high taste.

The Queen’s Staircase is plain compared to King’s but leads to her beautiful Dutch flowerbeds.

Filled with artifacts from around the world, the Queen’s Gallery is a place where Queen Mary enjoyed her needlework.

The King and Queen enjoyed their meals together in the Queen’s dining room.

Queen’s drawing-room is next to the dining room. Here she displayed her love for pieces from China and Japan.

Queen’s bedroom is further down – the room which witnessed the birth of James Edward Stuart and his imposter rumors.

The King’s Staircase

Famous for the vivid paintings by William Kent, the King’s Staircase displays lively and intriguing characters from the 18th century.

The paintings include identifiable members of the court in their red uniforms.

The paintings also include Kent himself and many other King’s specials like his page.

The paintings made by Kent covered much of the plain wooden panels, making it far more interesting than the Queen’s staircase.

The King’s Gallery

The King’s gallery is the largest and the most extended state apartment in the Palace.

The gallery still carries the same aura and ceiling canvases painted by Kent, showing instances from the life of Ulysses.

The room witnessed many intimate moments – from the Duke of Gloucester’s childhood to the King’s death.

During your tour of Kensington Palace, don’t miss out on the wind dial, which is still in working condition.

The King’s State Apartment

Built for audience and meetings, the rooms in the King’s State Apartment promise a grand experience.

The King’s staircase, grand and vivid, leads to the State Apartment.

It is followed by the Presence Chamber with its astonishing fireplace, where King met ambassadors and courtiers.

The magnificent ceiling painted by Kent beautifies the Privy Chamber, Queen Caroline’s favorite spot in the whole Palace.

The Cupola Room is also a finely decorated room and was William Kent’s first royal commission.

The climax of the whole set of rooms is the King’s Drawing room.

During your visit, don’t miss out on the paintings of Venus and Cupid done by Vasari.

The last and the longest room of the King’s Apartments is the King’s State Gallery.

The Royal Orangery

Located in the Kensington Gardens, the baroque Orangey was developed by Queen Anne between 1704-05.

The orangery was a party place for Queen Anne and had an underground heating system.

During winter, the Orangery was used as a plant conservatory.

Today, it houses the Orangery Restaurant, a perfect location to enjoy splendid views of Kensington Gardens.

Diana: Her Fashion Story

This exhibit lets you step into the closet of the people’s Princess, Diana.

The exhibit map her fashion journey from the outfit she was wearing during her first royal appearance to the outfits she was wearing before her untimely death.

You can also spot the famous ink blue color velvet gown worn at the White House.

One of the latest pieces, the blue tartan Emanuel coat, was displayed in 2017.

Besides displaying her iconic outfits, the exhibition also shows her relation with her old home, Kensington Palace.

Most tourists who visit Kensington Palace also explore the Tower of London.  Buy combo ticket

Kensington Palace reviews

Kensington Palace is highly rated on Tripadvisor .

Check out two of the Kensington Palace reviews we have picked up, to give you an idea of what visitors feel about this place.

Wonderful Experience

What a lovely Palace to visit. Certainly in the top 2 for the whole of the UK. The beautiful emerald jewels on display, the history in each room with good detailing of memorabilia. The absolute highlight is Diana. The Princess of class and grace, the selection of garments on display was thoroughly interesting and so lovely to see. A must see. Well worth the entry fee. – Whatdathink , Sydney

A MUST for Victoria fans

If you are a Victoria fan, you will love seeing the section of her rooms, including a dress she wore, her nursery and toys from childhood, several pictures, some jewellery. Very tastefully and well done, books in each room give you a self-guided tour of what is on display, and guides do regular talks in the rooms which make it even more interesting! – LookingForFamilyFun

Kensington Palace versus Buckingham Palace

Kensington Palace used to be the favorite Palace of the British Kings and Queens until 1760.

The British royals started preferring Buckingham Palace from the mid-18th century.

Only two Miles (3.2 Kms) separate the two Palaces.

We feel both the Palaces have their uniqueness, and it won’t hurt to see both.

However, if it is a question of either Kensington Palace or Buckingham Palace, we do have an answer.

Buckingham Palace is only open to the public a couple of months a year – between July and October.

If your London holiday falls in these months, by all means, book your Buckingham Palace tickets .

If not, go ahead and visit Kensington Palace right away !

Kensington Palace to Windsor castle

Many tourists plan both Kensington Palace and Windsor Castle on the same day.

After exploring Kensington Palace in the morning, they move on to Windsor.

If you want to move between the two Palaces, public transport is the best option.

Ride the train from Kensington Palace to Windsor Castle via London Paddington Slough, Windsor, and Elton Central.

You can reach Windsor Castle in approximately 1 hr 15 mins.

If you prefer a bus, opt for the one operated hourly by Green Line services.

The bus also takes the same amount of time – 1 hr 15 mins – and the ride costs 11 Pounds per person.

A faster yet costlier option is taking a taxi. In 30 mins and 75 to 90 Pounds you can reach Windsor Castle.

Food at Kensington Palace

While feasting your eyes at this Palace, you can stop over for good food and drinks.

The Palace cafe

This cafe is in front of the Palace, and you don’t need an entry ticket to dine here.

It is just the right place to relax before or after your tour of the Palace.

Winter timing (Nov to Feb): 10 am to 4 pm Summer timing (Mar to Oct):  10 am to 6 pm

Kensington Palace Pavilion and Tea Room

Opposite the Sunken Garden, this restaurant offers a splendid lunch and breakfast.

If you fancy a cup of tea, be here from 12 pm to 4 pm with a prior reservation.

Winter timing (Nov to Feb):  10 am to 4 pm Summer timing (Mar to Oct):  10 am to 6 pm.

However, eating in the Palace is prohibited except in designated places.

You can ditch the above two options and enjoy a picnic in the Kensington gardens as well.

FAQs about the Kensington Palace in London

Here are some FAQs about the Kensignton Palace London.

What if I’m running late for the Kensington Palace visit or miss my time slot?

If you can’t make it within your selected timeslot, the admissions team will try to fit you into the next available timeslot. Please remember that the later timeslots may be fully booked, and availability cannot always be guaranteed on the day.

Are mobile tickets accepted at the entrance of Kensington Palace?

Yes. Just open your ticket on your smartphone and make sure the QR code is visible for presentation at the Palace entrance.

Is there a place to store my luggage inside the Kensington Palace?

No, there are no storage facilities available. Please note that suitcases, large bags, and rolling luggage are prohibited inside the Palace buildings. It’s advisable to travel light and leave such items elsewhere during your visit.

Can I take photos inside Kensington Palace?

Non-commercial photography without flash is generally allowed inside the palace. However, some areas may be off-limits. Filming, panoramic photography, and tripod/selfie stick use are prohibited.

Is there any time limit for my Kensington Palace visit?

You can spend as much time as you like within Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens during their opening hours. However, for a comprehensive visit, we recommend setting aside approximately 2-3 hours to explore and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Can I arrive at the Kensington Palace dressed in costume?

Please note that adults are generally not allowed to enter the palace in costume unless it is explicitly stated as part of a specific event organized by Historic Royal Palaces.

Sources # Hrp.org.uk # Wikipedia.org # Royal.uk # Royalparks.org.uk The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Jamshed V Rajan

He is a two-faced traveler, who enjoys both the hustle-bustle of an urban holiday and the serenity of a break from the rest of the World. During some of his vacations, he is a resort hopper, and on others, he barely spends time in his hotel. He loves to try mouth-watering local cuisines, especially non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

1 thought on “Kensington Palace – tickets, prices, hours, what to see”

We had a wonderful day out exploring the Palace. We checked out the Victoria Exhibition and even got to see Princess Diana’s wedding dress up close—such a treat! The statue of Diana was also beautiful. Before leaving, we stopped by the gift shop, which is at the exit of the Palace, and picked up a little something for our daughter.

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My complete guide to Kensington Gardens and Palace in London

With formal gardens, water features and 265 acres of parkland, Kensington Gardens must be one of the most beautiful of the London parks. While open to the public, it somehow has an intimate feel. This is likely due to its association as the ‘back garden’ of Kensington Palace, home to many members of the Royal Family.

I took a walk to discover all the things to do in Kensington Gardens, as well as visiting Kensington Palace. Read everything below in my guide on what to see and do during your visit to London.

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Table of Contents

About Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens connects seamlessly with Hyde Park, the two forming one green space. The only division being The Serpentine and West Carriage Drive that runs through the park.

King William and Queen Mary first purchased and extended the mansion of Kensington Palace in the late 17th century. They required a residence that would be healthier than Whitehall Palace.

Subsequent monarchs laid out the gardens. Queen Charlotte created the artificial lake of The Serpentine by damming the river running through the park.

Royal Connections in Kensington Palace and Gardens

The Kensington Palace apartments are home to so many royals that it’s something of an upmarket housing estate. It offers privacy and security without all the costs associated with buying a substantial London residence.

If you are wondering who lives at Kensington Palace, it was home to Princess Margaret and Princess Diana who lived there from 1981 – 1997. The Duke and Duchess of Kent currently have their home there. You could also stay in a home fit for royalty by booking one of London’s top luxury vacation rentals .

William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have a large apartment within the palace. Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex originally lived in Nottingham Cottage. The younger generation of royals have recently been joined by Princess Eugenie who moved in with husband Jack Brooksbank after their marriage.

Read more about Kensington Palace – The Story of Kensington Palace by Tracy Borman

Queen Victoria’s first home

Kensington Palace is where Queen Victoria grew up. Sheltered from the public eye, she shared a bedroom with her mother until the age of 18 when she became queen.

You can visit the symbol of love between Queen Victoria and her consort Prince Albert in the romantic Italian gardens. that Albert commissioned as a gift for his wife. Also view the Albert Memorial that Queen Victoria erected to commemorate him when he died, aged only 42 years old.

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Princess Diana loved the sunken gardens next to Kensington Palace. Twenty years after her death in 2017, the garden was planted with white flowers in her memory.

There are more lasting reminders too in the Princess Diana Memorial Playground. The pirate ship and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is a magnet for families. You can follow the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk around London, taking in four royal parks as well as the palaces and homes that are associated with her.

Things to do in Kensington Gardens

There’s so much to see in Kensington Gardens that you could spend a whole day there. Visiting Kensington Palace could take a couple of hours on its own.

As we take a walk around some of the main attractions, I recommend starting from Kensington Palace.It’s an easy walk from Kensington High Street tube, passing the smart embassies on Kensington Palace Gardens. We’ll come back to look around Kensington Palace later, but for now let’s discover some of the things to do in Kensington Gardens itself.

The Kensington Palace Sunken Garden

I love the beautiful sunken gardens beside Kensington Palace. They were laid out in 1908 and are enclosed by a shady walkway of rose covered arches and hedges. You can’t walk inside the gardens, which are planted with flowering borders, but can look in to admire the still water of the formal pond and the fountains playing.

The Kensington Palace garden is like a jewel box that you can look into from all four sides. Peer through the pretty wrought iron gates, to admire the plantings that change through the seasons.

In 2017 the whole garden was planted in a white colour scheme to commemorate 20 years since the death of Princess Diana. Now the colour schemes vary with the time of year.

If you’d love to see more gardens in London, check out this Secret Gardens of London full day tour

Meet the ducks at the Round Pond in Kensington Gardens

Next our walk takes us to the Round Pond. From the slightly raised position of the sunken garden pathways you’ll get a great view. The Round Pond was created by Queen Charlotte, who developed Kensington Gardens from 1728 to include many of the water features.

This shallow pond is a great place to see the geese, ducks and swans who are only too happy to be fed. Although this is a favourite place to see the wildfowl, it’s actually not recommended to feed them. Bread or cakes are not part of their normal diet, although they will greedily eat whatever you throw at them.

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The Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens

Our walk continues to the south side of the park, bordering Kensington and Knightsbridge. Here we’ll find the impressive Albert Memorial, with its ornate spire looking almost like a church. Inside the monument sits the golden figure of Prince Albert who died aged only 42, leaving Queen Victoria grief stricken and in mourning for the rest of her life.

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The monument was unveiled following his death in 1872. It feels as if Victoria was telling the world that this was the man who should have been king, all clothed in gold. At each corner of the monument are marble figures representing the far corners of the British Empire in Europe, Asia, Africa and America.

Other parts of the decoration reflect Albert’s interest in manufacturing and engineering as well as his enthusiasm for the arts. If you’d like to also visit the Albert Hall which is opposite the Albert Memorial, check out this one hour guided tour of the Royal Albert Hall .

You can also take a tour to learn more about the monument on the first Sunday of each month, March – December at 2 pm cost £9.

The Serpentine Gallery and Serpentine Sackler Gallery

From the Albert memorial, we can walk up West Carriage Drive, to the Serpentine Gallery . The Gallery hosts contemporary art exhibitions and is completely free (although donations appreciated).

If I’m in the park I always like to pop in and see what’s on. It’s generally thought provoking and interesting, even if not always the pretty-pretty art that you find in the classic London art galleries.

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Last time I passed through there was the an exhibition by Pierre Huyghe of flickering LED images, that represent the brain activity of a human, with subtle reconstruction of the building. The sand and dust on the floor and the live flies buzzing around are all part of the art installation, although the website states that “utmost care of the flies” has been taken!

This is definitely art in its most conceptual and best taken without overthinking. Let the images wash over you to leave an impression on your mind as you pass through.

On the other side of the Serpentine Bridge is the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, which strictly speaking is in Hyde Park. It also offers a free gallery space for contemporary art, with a striking glass restaurant called Chucs designed by Zaha Hadid.

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The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain

Also in Hyde Park if we are being precise is the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. It would be shame to miss this on our walk, so let’s cross over West Carriage Drive to take a look. Created from Cornish Granite, the circular water course creates an unbroken flow of shallow water, that was designed to reflect Diana’s life.

Sometimes flowing calmly, in other places bubbling and rippling, the water flows in a circle and is a popular place to sit on the edge and reflect. Although you can dabble your feet in the water, walking through the water is not encouraged, although no-one minds the children having a paddle. Close to the Diana Memorial Fountain is the Lido Cafe and Bar where you can sit on a fine day on their outdoor terrace, with a view of the Serpentine.

If you’d like to cycle through Kensington Gardens and other parts of London, check out this London Royal Parks & Palaces 3.5 hour bike tour

Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens

Although we could head into Hyde Park where there’s lots more to explore, let’s turn north. We’ll follow the edge of the Long Water which is another part of the park that’s a habitat for ducks and geese.

The path will bring us to the well known statue of Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens, from the classic children’s story tale by J M Barrie of the boy who never grew up. The statue includes other characters from the story around its base, as well as squirrels, rabbits, mice and fairies.

It was J M Barrie himself who was a resident of Kensington and commissioned the statue. Barrie had it installed in one night on 1st May 1912 as a surprise for the children in the park. The Peter Pan is one of the Talking Statues projects. You can swipe your phone on a plaque and get a call back from Peter Pan himself to hear his story.

Read more about Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens by JM Barrie

A little further along the path, you may see people feeding the green parakeets that have become established in the park. They give an exotic air to the landscape, as there are lots of them in the trees in this part of the park.

On the other side of the Long Water you can also see The Arch, a sculpture by Henry Moore. Made of Italian Travertine stone, it sits at the end of the vista that looks right across the park towards Kensington Palace.

Hotels near Kensington Gardens

While visiting Kensington Gardens, a great place to stay is Park Grand London Lancaster Gate . It’s just a 10 minute walk from the Lancaster Gate park entrance and the Italian Gardens. The hotel is also close to Lancaster Gate tube station with easy access to all the major sights of London.

This 5 star hotel is in an elegant London townhouse, with 64 bedrooms and contemporary style. You’ll find all the amenities you’d expect such as complimentary WiFi, safe and tea/ coffee making facilities in your room.

To find out more and book your stay: Park Grand London Lancaster Gate Website | Facebook | contact: [email protected]

The Italian Gardens in Kensington Gardens

At the end of the Long Water, bordering Hyde Park are the beautiful Italian Gardens. Prince Albert had the Gardens created in 1860 as a gift to his wife Queen Victoria.

The gardens are inspired by the romantic Renaissance classical style that was fashionable at the time. They feature marble urns, formal pools, fountains and geometric flower beds.

The pavilion at one end of the gardens is a pleasant place to sit. It’s actually disguised the pump room, where a steam engine was used to operate the fountains.

On the northern edge of the gardens, there’s the Italian Garden Cafe. It’s glass fronted inside space and outdoor terrace is a good place to sit and admire the gardens. Look out for the white Rolls Royce ice cream van by the Italian Gardens, where you can treat yourself to an ice cream cone.

Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens

If you follow the path along the northern border of Kensington Gardens, or perhaps through the wild and natural areas of trees and grassland, you’ll reach the western edge of the park and the Diana Memorial Playground, by the Queensway Gate.

This is popular playground in Kensington Gardens, including a wooden pirate ship and play sculptures. Set in a protected enclosure of trees and shrubs, it was opened in 2000 in memory of Princess Diana who always loved children.

You won’t be able to enter the playground unless you are accompanied by children (except between 9.30 and 10 am). The playground is very popular, so at the busiest times queues may form as the numbers allowed in are regulated.

Beside the playground there’s the Broad Walk Cafe with the clock tower bearing the inscription Time Flies. N ext to it the Elfin Oak, an ancient oak trunk that is made into a charming sculpture. Figures of elves climb over it, which comedian Spike Milligan paid to have restored.

The Orangery in Kensington Gardens

Walking back towards Kensington Palace, we’ll pass the Orangery, which is currently closed for renovation. It was built in 1704 as a place to entertain for Queen Mary and her younger sister Anne.

At that time, having a glass house to keep ornamental orange and other fruit trees through the winter, was a fashionable and luxurious display of wealth and position.

The Orangery was previously open as an elegant tea rooms. While it’s being restored you can have afternoon tea in Kensington Gardens at The Kensington Palace Pavilion which has been erected close to the sunken gardens.

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Visiting Kensington Palace

Having explored Kensington Gardens, you’ll want to visit Kensington Palace. The Palace has strong connections with Queen Victoria and Princess Diana reflected in its exhibitions. There are many beautiful rooms and apartments in the palace, but the highlights that I most enjoyed were;

The King’s Staircase

This beautiful painted staircase is one of the first things that you see when entering Kensington Palace and was painted by William Kent to depict the court of King George I. The elegant and well dressed nobility mix with the King’s guards and his servants, as well as characters from the court. Look up and you may spot the artist himself on the ceiling holding his artist’s palate.

The King’s Gallery

This long gallery was designed to show the king’s art collection and the striking red silk damask is just as it looked when it was renovated for King George I in 1725.

Diana: Her fashion story Exhibition

The collection of Diana dresses at Kensington Palace show her changing taste and style through her public life. In the early years of her marriage, the style is romantic and flowing, with cream and pink dresses that are embellished with frills and lace.

Later Diana’s fashion style became more confident and she required elegant gowns for public appearances. We see stronger colours, clean lines and embellishment in the evening dresses she wore for public and state occasions.

After Charles and Diana divorced, there were many public appearances for the charities Diana supported, but she was more free in her choice of dresses. The body conscious dresses with narrow straps send a clear message; “I’m a confident woman making my own decisions” .

Victoria Revealed Exhibition

Queen Victoria was born in Kensington Palace and grew up there carefully sheltered from the world by her mother, the Duchess of Kent and her adviser Sir John Conroy. You can see the table in palace’s Red Saloon at which she first received her first Privy Council on becoming queen at the age of 18 after the death of her uncle King William IV. 

The exhibition shows intimate objects from her daily life, some of her clothes, the romantic portrait of her by Winterhalter that she gave to Prince Albert and her stunning tiaras and jewels.

Although you can visit Kensington Palace and buy tickets on the day, it is cheaper to book online. Also at busy times it is advisable to book in advance to be sure of your chosen time slot for entry.

The exhibition, Diana: her fashion story is especially popular and entry to this is included in the main palace ticket. Tickets are £19.50 for Adults. Kensington Palace opening hours are normally 10 am – 6 pm with last entry at 5 pm.

There is a security search to enter the palace which may also cause queues, even if you have already pre-booked your ticket. There is a cafe and gift shop at Kensington Palace which is accessible even if you are not visiting the palace.

More info: Kensington Palace Website | You can also pre-book your Kensington Palace Sightseeing tickets here .

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Map of Kensington Gardens

There are excellent maps of Kensington Gardens available on the official website including the map below.

Click here for a downloadable pdf map of Kensington Gardens

Getting to Kensington Gardens

More information to plan your visit

Information about Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace on the Royal Parks Website.

Hotels near Kensington Gardens – check out the Park Grand London Lancaster Gate Hotel

Need a guide book for London? We recommend the DK Eyewitness Top 10 London Pocket Travel Guide

Hotels in London – check all the prices and options

Need a guidebook for London? We recommend the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide London or if you only have a short time the DK Eyewitness Top 10 London

This article is brought to you in partnership* with the Park Grand London Lancaster Gate. 

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Friday 29th of March 2019

I have always wanted to visit Kensington Gardens. Everything looks so magical. Thank you for this excellent guide.

Disabled Ramps

Tuesday 30th of October 2018

We are so blessed in the UK to have such spectacular places to visit. The gardens are a must, and what's more they are wheelchair friendly

Many thanks for an excellent post. I am not always a huge fan of Victorian taste, but Albert Memorial was (and still is) impressive. In 1872 the queen was at her saddest, so a memorial that highlighted the late husband's significant contributions was most apt. Yes he really was interested in manufacturing, engineering and the arts in a hands-on way, and made major contributions.

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Kensington Palace

The palace is the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Other residents include Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, Duke and Duchess of Kent and Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

Areas of Kensington Palace are open to the public. Visitors can walk through the King's State Apartments, the Queen's State Apartments and the Gardens. There are also exhibitions plus a shop and The Orangery cafe.

To book tickets to Kensington Palace and for more information, visit the Historic Royal Palaces website .

History of Kensington Palace

King William and Queen Mary asked Christopher Wren, the architect of St Paul's Cathedral, to turn Nottingham House into a palace. His extension is largely what you see today.

The clerk of works, Nicholas Hawksmoor, was told to do the job quickly and cheaply so that's why Kensington Palace was built with bricks, rather than stone.

It was completed in six months and William and Mary moved in on Christmas Eve 1689. Over the next few years, the couple added a gallery, the Queen's Apartments and a new entrance. They opened the gardens to the public on Sundays when they went to Richmond.

Mary didn't have long to enjoy her new palace because she died from smallpox in 1694. In 1702, William fell off his horse, broke his collar bone and died a few days later.

Queen Victoria was born at Kensington Palace and lived here until 1837. Diana Princess of Wales had an apartment at the palace from 1981-1997.

Tours & Highlights

Kensington palace.

Kensington Palace is one of London’s top attractions, drawing in visitors with the allure of the British royal family, gorgeous architecture and tranquil gardens in the middle of a bustling city. Let's take a look at some of the highlights that simply can’t be missed.

The Albert Memorial

Located in Kensington Gardens, the Albert Memorial is an impressive monument that features incredible stonemasonry and creative designs. It was built by Queen Victoria in memory of Prince Albert. In the centre is an enormous statue of Prince Albert in gilt bronze, underneath a large chapel-like structure that goes up 176 feet. At each corner of the monument, there are different allegorical sculptures; four depicting different continents of the world, and four depicting different industries.

The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Statue

In the serene Sunken Garden of Kensington Palace, a poignant tribute stands—a bronze statue commemorating the beloved Princess Diana. Commissioned by her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, on the 20th anniversary of her passing, this exquisite memorial was unveiled on 1 July 2021, which would have marked Diana’s 60th birthday.

The King’s Gallery

Located inside Kensington Palace is the King’s Gallery, which is the longest and largest of all apartments in the residence. The room itself is worth seeing, as it’s been kept almost identical to how King George I decorated it in 1725. Visitors will also find one of the best collections of royal art in the country.

The King’s Staircase

Inside Kensington Palace, you’ll find the opulent King’s Staircase; a feast for the eyes completed by William Kent in 1724. Along the walls, you’ll see a vivid depiction of court life during the reign of King George I.

Famously, visitors could only enter and take the grand staircase if their clothes and jewels were deemed acceptable by the palace guards.

The State Rooms

Discover the grandeur of Kensington Palace's staterooms, where royal splendor meets architectural elegance. Adorned with exquisite furnishings and ornate decor, these opulent chambers offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of past monarchs, enchanting visitors with their timeless beauty.

The Story So Far..

Kensington Palace, a regal landmark nestled in London's Kensington Gardens, has witnessed centuries of royal history. From its origins as a modest Jacobean mansion to its transformation into a beloved royal residence, it remains an iconic symbol of British monarchy and heritage.

2024 Exhibitions

Kensington Palace has a history of giving visitors access to a series of incredible exhibitions that give further insight into the lives of the royal family and other important figures linked to the palace. Here, we delve into the exhibitions currently on show at the palace.

The Palace Gardens

Experience the serene beauty of Kensington Palace Gardens, where history meets nature. Wander through meticulously landscaped grounds, adorned with vibrant blooms and tranquil pathways, offering a captivating retreat in the heart of London's royal heritage.

The King’s State Apartments

Visit the incredibly opulent state apartments in Kensington Palace . Walk and explore where hundreds of royals, nobles and important figures met over the years. The apartments consist of seven rooms, which are all specifically designed to host important guests.

The Queen’s State Apartments

Go back in time and see how royals lived at Kensington Palace. Built for Queen Mary II, these rooms were where royals resided in the palace. Visitors will find that much of the apartments haven’t changed since the 17th century. Highlights include the Queen’s Staircase, which was designed to allow Mary to walk down gracefully, and the dining room, where Mary would dine with her husband King William III.

Visiting Kensington Palace in 2024

A Kensington Palace admission ticket provides access to all public areas of the palace and gardens. By booking your ticket and arrival slot online in advance, you can help ensure your visit goes to plan.

Opening Times

Note: Kensington Palace is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and between 24th - 26th December.

November – March

Open Wednesday to Sunday: 10.00-16.00 - Last admission: 14.30

April – October

Open Wednesday to Sunday: 10.00-18.00 - Last admission: 17.00

Visitors Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit kensington palace, can i take photographs inside kensington palace, is there a guided tour available at kensington palace, is kensington palace accessible for people with disabilities, are there any restrictions on the use of pushchairs/strollers or baby carriers inside kensington palace, is there a dress code for visiting kensington palace, are there any nearby attractions or landmarks to visit after kensington palace.

Visit Kensington Palace

Kensington palace offers a unique glimpse into the lives of past and present members of the british monarchy..

Visitors can explore the opulent state apartments, stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens, and immerse themselves in the rich history showcased in various exhibitions. Kensington Palace promises an unforgettable royal experience. Join us as we delve into what makes this palace a must-see destination and provide essential information to plan your visit.

Kensington Palace

Buy tickets now for 2024.

Check tour & ticket availability for Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace, one of London’s most iconic royal residences, offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and opulent lifestyle of British royalty. Located in the heart of Kensington Gardens, the palace has been home to numerous monarchs and royals over the centuries, including Queen Victoria and Princess Diana. In this article, we’ll explore the highlights of visiting Kensington Palace, including its stunning gardens, royal apartments, and fascinating exhibitions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a regal day out, Kensington Palace promises an unforgettable royal experience.

A Glimpse into History

Kensington Palace has a storied past that dates back to the 17th century when it was acquired by King William III and Queen Mary II. Originally known as Nottingham House, the modest mansion was transformed into a royal residence to provide a retreat away from the damp conditions of Whitehall Palace. Over the years, it has been expanded and renovated by various monarchs, each leaving their mark on the architecture and decor. The palace has witnessed countless historical events and has been the birthplace and childhood home of many royals, including Queen Victoria.

The Royal Apartments

One of the main attractions of Kensington Palace is the chance to explore the opulent state apartments. These rooms, adorned with exquisite furnishings, paintings, and artifacts, offer a glimpse into the lives of the royals who once resided here. Some of the highlights include:

• The King’s State Apartments: Step into the grandeur of the King’s State Apartments, which were designed to impress and entertain. The lavishly decorated rooms include the Presence Chamber, the King’s Drawing Room, and the Council Chamber, each filled with stunning artworks and period furnishings.
• The Queen’s State Apartments: These rooms, used by Queen Mary II, are more intimate but equally luxurious. Highlights include the Queen’s Gallery, the Queen’s Closet, and the Queen’s Bedroom, each offering insights into the daily life of a queen.

The Gardens

Kensington Palace is set within Kensington Gardens, one of London’s eight Royal Parks. The beautifully landscaped gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city and are a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Key features of the gardens include:

The Sunken Garden

This stunning garden, designed in 1908, features ornamental flower beds, a tranquil pond, and vibrant seasonal plantings. It was a favorite spot of Princess Diana and was redesigned in her memory as the White Garden in 2017.

The Cradle Walk

This secluded, arched walkway is lined with fragrant flowers and offers a peaceful retreat within the gardens.

The Formal Gardens

These gardens, with their manicured lawns and symmetrical flower beds, reflect the traditional elegance of the palace grounds.

Westminster Abbey

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St. Paul's Cathedral

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710, the cathedral is renowned for its majestic dome, stunning...

Visitor Information

• Tickets: It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance online through the official Kensington Palace website. This can help you avoid long queues and ensure entry at your preferred time.
• Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the palace. Expert guides can provide fascinating stories and details that enhance your visit.
• Accessibility: The palace is wheelchair accessible, and assistance is available for visitors with disabilities. There are also accessible restrooms and seating areas throughout the palace and gardens.
• Photography: Photography is allowed in most areas of the palace, but flash photography and tripods are not permitted. Check the specific rules on arrival.
• Respect the Rules: Follow the guidelines provided by your guide, especially regarding photography and restricted areas.

Visiting Kensington Palace offers a captivating journey through centuries of royal history and grandeur. From the opulent state apartments and beautiful gardens to the fascinating exhibitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the life of Queen Victoria, admiring royal fashion, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the gardens, Kensington Palace provides an enriching and memorable experience. Plan your visit today and step into the world of British royalty at this historic and iconic landmark. For more information and to book your tickets, visit the official Kensington Palace website. Enjoy your royal adventure!

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The state rooms.

The State Rooms are open everyday in July and August. In September they are open to the public from Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)

11th July - 31st of August

Open Daily: 09.30 - 19.30 - Last admission: 17.15

1st - 29th of September

Open Thursday to Monday: 09.30 - 18.30 - Last admission: 16.15

Visitors Frequently Asked Questions

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