Key sites to spot on the map of Hampton Court Palace

The Great Hall

The Great Hall at Hampton Court Palace is the grand centerpiece of Tudor royalty, built to showcase Henry VIII's power. Picture a vast hall with an awe-inspiring timber roof and walls adorned with rich tapestries. It's where Shakespeare performed, and royal parties filled the air with chatter and clinking goblets.

Plan Your Visit to Hampton Court Palace

Henry VIII's Kitchen

Henry VIII's Kitchens were like the engine room of the Tudor court. Spanning nearly a quarter of the Palace, these kitchens churned out over 800 meals daily to feed 1,200 people! With specialized departments and massive fireplaces, it was a culinary powerhouse fit for a king.

Haunted Gallery

Hampton Court Palace's Haunted Gallery is steeped in eerie legends. The tragic ghost of Catherine Howard is said to still roam the space. Her tragic story of betrayal and desperate flight through this corridor haunts the space, making it a spine-tingling part of the Palace's rich Tudor history.

William III's Apartment

William III's Apartments are a stunning example of Baroque style, filled with lavish decor and intricate details. The grand staircase, decorated with Antonio Verrio's painting "Victory of Alexander over the Caesars," and the opulent Presence Chamber, where courtiers had to bow to the empty throne, capture the royal lifestyle.

Chapel Royal

The Chapel Royal stands out at Hampton Court Palace with its impressive Tudor and Baroque design. Originally built under Henry VIII, it features a magnificent vaulted ceiling and a royal pew. It's an active church with traditional services and a vibrant choral tradition.

Cumberland Gallery

Wander through the Cumberland Gallery, where the 18th-century design complements a diverse collection of royal artworks. Originally for the Duke of Cumberland, this gallery now features masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt and Caravaggio, showcasing the royal family's passion for art to the public.

The Maze

Test your navigation skills in the Hampton Court Maze, created by William III in 1690. As the UK's oldest hedge maze, its yew tree hedges and multicursal paths present an engaging challenge. Lose yourself in this historic labyrinth and enjoy the history of the royal garden with every twist and turn.

Hampton Court Gardens

Hampton Court Gardens is a 60-acre showcase of royal horticulture. Pose for a picture in front of the Great Fountain Garden's impressive fountains, leisurely walk through the Privy Garden's layout, and enjoy the playful Magic Garden. The Maze and the Great Vine add extra layers of fun.

Royal Tennis Court

Imagine playing tennis where Henry VIII once swung a racket! The Royal Tennis Court, with its mix of Tudor and Stuart design, showcases real tennis quirks with sloping walls and intricate decor and continues to host exciting world championship matches.

Visitor Facilities

Limited on-site parking costs £1.60 per hour.
Toilets are in the Kitchen Garden, Base Court, Fountain Court, and Wilderness. All toilets are accessible to disabled visitors.
Baby changing facilities are located at Base Court, Fountain Court, and Magic Garden.
Inside the Palace, you'll find several cafes and kiosks.
A gift shop is on-site, and souvenirs are also available online.
The Buggy Store in Clock Court provides lockers for your belongings.
For lost items, contact a staff member or email info@hrp.org.uk.
Exclusive wedding and engagement photography is available in the Palace and Gardens.
Free companion tickets are provided for visitors with disabilities.
Nine disabled parking bays are available on-site, and Blue Badge holders park for free.
The Palace offers wheelchairs and outdoor-use electric buggies.
Pushchairs and buggies are allowed; there's a designated buggy park in Clock Court.
The Information Center is in the main building near the Undercroft and is open during palace hours.
A first-aid room is on the ground floor near Henry VIII's apartments; if you need assistance, speak to staff.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Palace.
Audio tours for the visually impaired are available at William III's Apartments and Tudor Kitchens, and transcripts are available at the Information Center.
Braille guides can be borrowed from the Information Center; ask a warder for assistance.

Other essential visitor information

Eating and drinking are permitted only in designated lunchrooms.
The Palace is entirely smoke-free; smoking is prohibited anywhere on the premises.
Photography is allowed except in the Chapel Royal and Royal Pew; flash photography is discouraged.
Do not touch exhibits that are placed behind ropes.
Cycling and scooters are not allowed in the courtyards and gardens.
Pets are not permitted except for assistance dogs with the appropriate documentation.

You can pick up a free map at the entrance or visitor center. Versions in multiple languages are available to suit international guests.
Spend a few moments familiarizing yourself with the map. Pinpoint must-see spots like the State Apartments, Great Hall, Maze, and gardens.
Keep your map handy as you wander around. It highlights main attractions, restrooms, and visitor routes to help you find your way.
Look for map kiosks scattered around the palace grounds. They're perfect for checking your location and plotting your next stop.
Use the compass provided with the map. It will help you get your bearings, especially useful in the sprawling gardens and maze.
Check the estimated walking times between critical areas on the map. This will help you manage your visit and see everything you want.
Fold the map neatly to make it easy to carry. An unfolded map can be awkward while you're on the move.