Kensington Palace’s history
Kensington Palace has a rich royal history. Moreover, It can boast of being the birth place of Queen Victoria as well as the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
In addition, it is noteworthy that it has been the home of a host of Georgian monarchs who have all left their mark on this impressive Palace.
Princess Diana
Recently, indeed, Kensington Palace has become closely linked to the late Princess Diana, who lived there from her wedding day until her passing in 1997.
Furthermore, the area is filled with tributes to her life, including an official memorial, a playground, and local café that she often visited with her children, all of which honouring her memory.
Combine Kensington Palace with a fish and chip meal
Why not make it an extra special London day out and combine your Kensington Palace tickets with Fish and Chips meal from Poppies Restaurant
Kensington Palace – what will I see?
As you step inside, you’ll find yourself immersed in the lavish rooms and areas that have played a significant role in numerous royal tales throughout history.
Take a leisurely stroll through the State Apartments of the King and Queen, where you can admire exquisite pieces from the Royal Collection.
The Queens apartments
The Queen’s quarters served as the residence for Mary and subsequent royal consorts, encompassing, in addition, their bedroom, dining area, and spaces for entertaining friends and esteemed guests; moreover, it included places to unwind.
The Kings apartments
In contrast, the King’s apartments showcase the more official side of royal existence, where the monarch welcomed courtiers, ministers, and foreign ambassadors.
The Jewel Room
Part of the King’s State Apartments, showcasing stunning royal treasures. In particular, the Jewel Room is home to to an exquisite collection of items and historic treasures, including specially commissioned gems for Queen Victoria. Furthermore, these treasures reflect the rich history and artistry of the royal family.
One of the standout features of the collection is the Raphael Jewels, which include a stunning array of 16th-century cameos and intaglios that were originally commissioned by King George IV. These exquisite pieces showcase the opulent style favoured by the British royal family.
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).
For more information visit the Kensington Palace official website
Opening times and location
We recommend allowing at least 2 hours to visit. 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.