Welcome to Stately Homes

First adapted for royal residence in 1689 by Sir Christopher Wren, Kensington Palace has been host to the courts of William and Mary, Queen Anne, George I and George II. In more recent times the palace has been a much loved home for Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales, both of whom have played a part in transforming Kensington into a fashionable royal residence.

Diana, Princess of Wales by Mario Testino - this beautiful exhibition features a unique collection of photographs taken by Mario Testino to promote the charity auction of 79 of her dresses. Tragically the images turned out to be the last official portraits of the Princess and can now be viewed alongside a selection of her most exquisite dresses. More information about this and visiting is available on their Website.

The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection - their stunning collection of English court dress has been added to be each royal generation from the 18th century to the present day. Explore the replica dressmaker’s workroom and colourful tailors shop which form part of this unique display.

The State Apartments - the magnificent rooms, added to the palace by William III and Mary II, showcase some of the most breath taking examples of the architect and painter William Kent’s work.

As you climb the impressive King’s Staircase see if you can spot the faces of ‘Peter the Wild Boy’ and a self-portrait of the artist, peering down at you from his illusionist masterpiece.

Explore the sumptuous series of state rooms, including the Cupola Room where Princess Victoria was christened, before making your way through the more intimate Queen’s Apartments, where Mary II would have relaxed with her closest friends.

The Orangery - once the setting for lavish court entertainments, the famous Orangery is now a tranquil café where you can enjoy leisurely lunches and afternoon teas. Nearby you will discover the beauty of the magical Sunken Garden.

The Victorian Rooms - in the heart of the palace are the elegant Victorian Rooms. This intimate suite was used by Princess Victoria and her mother, the Duchess of Kent. You can stand in the very bedroom in which, in the early hours of 20 June 1837, the young Princess Victoria awoke to the news that she was to be queen.

Number 1a Kensington Palace - in 2004 Number 1a was opened to the public for the first time in three hundred years. Its royal residents have included King George III’s son and more recently HRH Princess Margaret.

Audio guides are included in the palace ticket and are available in a range of languages with first-hand accounts and stories of Kensington Palace and its famous dress collection.

Hospitality:

Today, the palace offers a unique selection of rooms available for formal dinners, receptions and weddings, ranging from the opulent Red Saloon, rich and luxurious, to the airy elegance of the famous Orangery. This famous building, designed by Hawksmoor and built for Queen Anne in 1704, is adjacent to the palace and offers a haven of peace and serenity in the heart of London.

For more intimate dinners, the exquisite design and decoration of the Duchess of Teck’s Saloon and the Red Saloon, will charm your guests. In summer you also have the opportunity to use the Sunken Garden for pre-dinner drinks. The North Drawing Room, where Queen Victoria was born in 1819, has been restored to tell the story of the momentous day. It offers a fascinating venue for a presentation, reception or lunch. You can find further details about entertaining at Kensington Palace on their Website.

Refreshments:

The Orangery provides a wide range of refreshments from morning coffee, salads, sandwiches and hot meals to delicious afternoon teas. Brought a picnic? You are welcome to use any of the benches outside the palace or in Kensington Gardens.

Opening Times - 2010:

Open daily except 24th - 26th December

1st March - 31st October: 10 am - 6 pm
Last admission: 5 pm

1st November - 28th February: 10 am - 5 pm
Last admission: 4 pm
Closed: 24th - 26th December

Allow at least 2 hours for your visit.

Admission Charges - 2010:

Adult - £12.30
Concessions - £10.75
Child - £6.15
Family (2 adults + 3 children) - £34

Groups (15+)
Adult - £11.10
Concessions - £9.25
Child - £5.55


How to get there:

Underground:
Notting Hill Gate station - Central Line
High Street Kensington station - Circle and District Lines

Bus:
Bayswater Road: 70, 94, 390
High Street Kensington: 9, 10, 49, 52, 70, 148

Images © Historic Royal Palaces.