11 BEST Facts Of Hampton Court Palace-The Complete Guide
Stepping into the splendid world of Hampton Court Palace is akin to embarking on a time traveling journey through the opulent corridors of English history. From its magnificent Tudor façade to its sprawling gardens adorned with vibrant blooms, every nook and cranny of Hampton Court exudes an air of regal charm.
11 FACTS ABOUT HAMPTON COURT PALACE
- It’s a majestic Tudor building located on the banks of the River Thames, holds a fascinating history that dates back to the early 16th century. With over 1,000 rooms and stunning gardens spanning 60 acres, it is one of the most well-preserved royal palaces in England. The palace served as a residence for King Henry VIII and later became a favored retreat for monarchs like William III and Mary II.
- One intriguing fact is its famous hedge maze, planted during the reign of William III in the late 17th century. This intricate maze spans over half an acre and can bewilder even the most skilled navigators with its devious twists and turns. Another lesser known aspect is Hampton Court’s connection to British cultural heritage through hosting events like the Hampton Court Palace Festival, featuring performances by renowned musicians against the palace’s magnificent backdrop.
- The famous maze is the oldest of its type to be found anywhere on earth. It dates back to around 1700, and still puzzles visitors to this day.
- It is the home of the Tudor feast. Visitors can still see Henry VIII’s kitchens, where extravagant spreads were prepared. These date from the 1500s, have half a dozen fireplaces and were used by up to 200 cooks at a time before a big banquet.
- It wasn’t only about food during Tudor times. Base Court at Hampton Court is where guests would wait to be called inside by Henry VIII. He installed a wine fountain here, so they could enjoy a drink while they waited!
- Thomas Wolsey was the one who ordered the palace to be built. He was a prominent advisor to King Henry VIII and a Catholic bishop. Though he commissioned it, he gave it to the King a few years later when both men realised it was finer than any of the King’s own palaces.
- Queen Victoria was responsible for Hampton Court being opened to the public. This was in 1838. Before that, the palace had been empty from 1760, after the death of King George II. He was the last royal to live at the palace.
- Both William Shakespeare, the English playwright, and Vincent Van Gogh, the Dutch artist, have visited the palace. Shakespeare stayed here during the Christmas period of 1603 when his theatre company put on plays for James I. Van Gogh was one of the first visitors once the palace was opened to the public, as he wanted to see the tapestries for himself.
- Two of Henry VIII’s former wives numbers three and five of the eight are said to haunt the palace. They are Jane Seymour, who died during childbirth at Hampton Court, and Catherine Howard. The latter was arrested here before being beheaded at the Tower of London.
- In winter, you can ice skate at the palace. Hampton Court Ice Rink opens between mid November and early January, when members of the public can pay to skate for up to 45 minutes. Season tickets are available to locals, as well as one off entry.
- The Great Hall is the oldest remaining Elizabethan theatre in England. Celebrated architect Inigo Jones designed the scenery. Both Queen Anne and William Shakespeare have acted here too the former in plays written by Samuel Daniel, and the second in some of his own.
HOW TO TRAVEL TO HAMPTON COURT PALACE
To reach Hampton Court from central London, one can opt for a variety of transportation modes, each offering its own unique experience. One convenient option is taking a train from London Waterloo station to Hampton Court station. The scenic journey takes less than 40 minutes and offers stunning views along the River Thames.

For those who prefer a leisurely ride, consider traveling by boat on the Thames River. Several companies offer river cruises departing from various points in central London and providing a relaxing way to reach the palace. For cycling enthusiasts, renting a bike in London and pedaling your way to Hampton Court can be an adventurous and eco-friendly alternative that allows you to explore the surroundings at your own pace.
TRAINS
From central London, hop on a South Western Railway train at Waterloo Station bound for Hampton Court. The journey takes about 35 minutes, providing a scenic ride along the River Thames. Once you arrive at Hampton Court station, it’s just a short walk to the majestic palace itself.
The frequency of trains to Hampton Court makes it a convenient option for visitors looking to explore this historic attraction without the hassle of driving or navigating through traffic.
TUBE
To get to Hampton Court by tube, you can take the South Western Railway train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court station. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes and offers picturesque views along the way. Once you arrive at Hampton Court station, the palace is just a short walk away through the charming village of East Molesey.
If you prefer a more scenic route, you can take a leisurely boat ride along the River Thames from Westminster or Richmond to Hampton Court. This relaxing journey offers a unique perspective of London’s iconic landmarks and allows you to arrive at the palace in style.
BUS
To reach Hampton Palace by bus, start your journey from central London. Bus routes 111, 216, 411, and R68 all offer easy access to this historic site. A scenic route through west London will take you past charming neighborhoods and green spaces before arriving at the palace’s magnificent gates.
The ride itself is a delightful experience, offering glimpses of local life and architecture along the way. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly to avoid peak hours for a more comfortable journey.
BY CAR
When traveling to Hampton Palace by car, there are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure a smooth journey. Firstly, be sure to check the traffic conditions and plan your route accordingly, as the area surrounding the palace can experience congestion during peak hours. Consider using GPS navigation or a map app on your phone to avoid getting lost on the way.
Another important tip is to make use of available parking facilities near Hampton Palace. There are several parking lots and garages in the vicinity where visitors can safely leave their cars while exploring the historic site.
HAMPTON COURT PALACE OPENING TIMES
It offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the grandeur of Tudor and Baroque architecture. The palace’s opening times vary depending on the season, with longer hours during the summer months to accommodate the influx of tourists. One unique aspect of visiting Hampton Court is the opportunity to witness historical reenactments and events that bring the palace’s past to life.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HAMPTON COURT PALACE?
If you want to experience Hampton Palace in all its glory, the best time to visit is during the summer months. The gardens are in full bloom, with vibrant flowers and lush greenery providing a picturesque backdrop for your exploration. The longer daylight hours allow you to fully take advantage of all the outdoor attractions and activities offered at the palace.
Visiting during late autumn or early spring can also be a great option. The crowds are thinner during these times, which means you can explore the palace at a more leisurely pace without feeling rushed or crowded. The cooler temperatures also make walking around the vast grounds more comfortable, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and history of this historical site without being overwhelmed by large crowds.
WHAT TO SEE AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE
At Hampton Palace, make sure not to miss the stunning gardens that boast over 60 acres of meticulously manicured landscapes. From the famous maze to the intricately designed Privy Garden, there is a tranquil beauty that transports visitors back in time. Exploring inside the palace itself offers a glimpse into royal history with its opulent Tudor and Baroque architecture.

Don’t forget to visit the Great Hall, where King Henry VIII once hosted grand feasts and celebrations, showcasing his wealth and power. The Great Watching Chamber is another highlight, adorned with intricate tapestries and historic paintings that tell stories of court life in centuries past.
At the Great Watching Chamber, you can see where guards controlled who entered the palace: only those of high rank would be permitted to venture within.
- You can also see the state apartments of William III and Mary II and the Chapel Royal at Hampton Palace. If you’re into art, don’t miss the Cumberland Gallery, which houses works by some well known artists such as Caravaggio and Rembrandt.
- Other things to see in and around the palace include Christopher Wren’s Fountain Court and the restored Chocolate Kitchens, which are 3 centuries old.
HAMPTON COURT PALACE GARDENS
The immaculate gardens of Hampton Palace offer a picturesque journey through history and horticulture. With over 60 acres of meticulously manicured landscapes, including the famous Privy Garden and the stunning Rose Garden, visitors are transported back to the grandeur of Tudor and Baroque eras. The intricate parterres, vibrant flowerbeds, and serene water features provide a sensory feast for all who wander through these historic grounds.

Every corner of Hampton Palace Gardens holds secrets waiting to be discovered. From the geometric perfection of the Pond Garden to the wild beauty of the Wilderness area, each section offers a unique perspective on landscape design throughout the centuries. The Great Vine, one of the oldest grapevines in existence planted by Capability Brown in 1768, stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and nature’s resilience.
TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR VISIT TO HAMPTON COURT PALACE
When planning your visit to Hampton Palace, consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip the long lines. Make sure to allot enough time to explore both the stunning gardens and elaborate interiors of the palace. Take advantage of the audio guides available at the entrance to enhance your experience by learning about the history and significance of each room you walk through.
Exploring Hampton Palace can be overwhelming due to its vast size and intricate details, so consider joining a guided tour for a more structured experience. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces throughout the palace grounds.
FAQs
What is a fact about Hampton Court Palace?
By the 1530s, Henry VIII’s Hampton Court was a palace, a hotel, a theatre and a vast leisure complex. The King used it to demonstrate magnificence and power in every possible way, through lavish banquets, extravagant court life and fabulously expensive art.
Why is it called Hampton Court?
Today, King Charles III owns the palace ‘in trust of the Crown’, however, the structure and grounds are cared for by the independent charity, Historic Royal Palaces.
Did Queen Elizabeth use Hampton Court?
Elizabeth I visited Hampton Court many times throughout her life. In 1555 she stayed as a prisoner following the unsuccessful Wyatt’s Rebellion. As Queen, Elizabeth often spent Christmas and New Years at the Palace where she received many lavish gifts.
What is Hampton Court used for today?
First opened to the public by Queen Victoria in the 1830s, Hampton Court Palace is now run by Historic Royal Palaces (who have their headquarters there) and is famed for its 60 acres of formal gardens.