King Henry VIII’s reign is one of the most controversial. While he was widely recognized for his marriages, he’s also infamous for his extravagance. The Hampton Court Palace is among the proofs of his love for everything grand.

1. How to Plan Your Hampton Court
Palace Visit
King Henry VIII’s reign is one of the most
controversial. While he was widely recognized for
his marriages, he’s also infamous for his
extravagance. The Hampton Court Palace is among
the proofs of his love for everything grand.

2. Brief History of Hampton Court Palace
Thomas Wolsey, one of King Henry VIII’s advisers,
initiated the construction of the Hampton Court
Palace. The archbishop had the monarch’s trust
but not until the Catholic Church refused to grant
the king’s demand for an annulment. As he fell out
of favor, he returned the palace to the king.
The king went on to rebuild and expand the place.
He ordered the building of the Great Hall and Royal
Tennis Court. He also instructed the expansion of
the kitchens to accommodate his court.
The succeeding monarchs further refurbished
Hampton Court Palace. Today, the base court and
inner gatehouse are two of the few constructions
attributed to Wolsey. King George II was the last
monarch who resided in the place which is now
open as a tourist attraction.

3. Main Attractions
Inside the Hampton Court Palace, visitors can view
the replica of King Henry VIII’s crown. The said
crown is embellished with diamonds, sapphires,
emeralds, rubies and pearls among others.
The Chapel Royal is also worth seeing during your
stay at any of the ​serviced apartments in
Covent Garden​ for its baroque architecture. Until
now, it’s still being used for services.
For literature and history lovers, the Great Hall is a
must-visit. After all, William Shakespeare and his
company performed therein. The hall’s
jaw-dropping beam and stained glass are also a
sight to behold.
The grandeur of the palace isn’t limited to its
interiors. Outside, the vast Hampton Court
Gardens charm all visitors. Within the 750-acre
park are the famous vineyard and maze.

4. Ticket Prices
Regular tickets sold online cost £21.30 for adults
(without donation) and £10.70 for children aging 5
up to 15 years old. Children under 5 years old can
enter for free as long as they’re accompanied by
an adult. Tickets sold at the gate are a bit more
expensive so it’s better to book online and in
advance.
Discounts are available for families, students and
seniors. The palace is also one of the attractions
you can visit using a London Pass or London
Explorer Pass.
You can also read: ​Best Rooftop Bars in West
and North London
Opening Hours and Days
The Hampton Court Palace is open for tourists
every day. The regular opening hours are from
10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. These may change on
special occasions though.

5. Ways to Get There
The Hampton Court Palace is nearer to National
Railway stations than tube stations. Hampton
Court Railway Station is a short walk from the
palace. If you don’t mind walking for 20 minutes,
you can drop off at Thames Ditton and Hampton
Wick railway stations.
If you still prefer the tube, you can alight at the
Richmond station. From there, ride a bus with the
route R68.
It is 16miles away from the ​Presidential
Marylebone Mayfair​ from where you can drive
your own or a rental car. The car park is limited
though. There’s also £1.60 per hour parking fee.
Nearby Attractions
You can spend at least two hours in the Hampton
Court Palace. Afterwards, you can proceed to
nearby attractions like Chessington World of
Adventures. The said adventure park is home to
SEA LIFE. If you have kids who love sea animals,
including a trip to the aquarium in your itinerary.