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Contents
The Kensington Palace | Royal Residency in London
Kensington Palace has been a royal residence since the 17th century, and currently hosts members of the British royal family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucest...
Founded On
1605
Founded By
Sir Christopher Wren
Quick Information
RECOMMENDED DURATION
3 hours
Timings
10:00–16:00
VISITORS PER YEAR
400000
TICKETS
From £ 20
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
2+ hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
In the 18th century, Kensington Palace was the hub of the Georgian Royal Court, and had a strict dress code. Women wore wide skirts and had elaborate hairstyles with feathers, while men donned wigs, embroidered suits, and silk stockings.
Queen Anne, who resided at Kensington Palace, experienced significant personal tragedy, enduring 18 pregnancies with only five children born alive, and just one son surviving infancy.
Kensington Palace was Princess Diana's residence after her marriage to Prince Charles and during their separation. It was where she raised her sons William and Harry and conducted her famous interview with Martin Bashir. Visitors can see some of Diana's iconic dresses in the "Fashion Rules Restyled" exhibition.
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Plan your visit to Kensington Palace
What are Kensington Palace timings?
Where is Kensington Palace located?
General timings: 10am to 6pm
Closed on: 24-26 December, 31 December, 1 January, and certain Mondays and Tuesdays.
Best time to visit: Plan your visit in the afternoons during the off-peak season, from October to February, to avoid large crowds.
Address: Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, United Kingdom
Kensington Palace is nestled in Kensington Gardens, near Hyde Park. It's surrounded by upscale neighborhoods, museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum, and bustling shopping areas like Kensington High Street.
Closest landmark: Albert Memorial (0.8 km)
What to see at Kensington Palace?
The King’s State Apartments
The King’s State Apartments is the most luxurious apartment at Kensington Palace. It features everything from grandiose staterooms and Presence Chamber to the Cupola Room, the King’s Gallery and lots more.
The King’s Staircase
The walls of the King’s Staircase were painted by William Kent as a vivid recreation of George I and has gained immense popularity over centuries. The artwork displays a lively 18th-century court of intriguing and unexpected characters.
The King’s Gallery
The King’s Gallery takes pride in being the largest and longest state apartment in Kensington Palace which was transformed by King George I in 1725. It was used primarily for exercise as well as exhibiting pictures.
The Queen’s State Apartments
The Queen’s apartments is where Mary, and later royal consorts, lived. This included the Queen’s Staircase, the Queen’s Gallery, the Queen’s Closest, the Queen’s Dining Room and the Queen’s Drawing Room.
Victoria: A Royal Childhood Exhibition
Here, you will get the chance to learn the story of Princess Victoria. Unfold all about the young girl, who was destined to be queen, explore the rooms where she was born and raised at Kensington Palace for an unforgettable experience.
Sunken Garden
The Sunken Garden was first designed and constructed in 1908. In 2017, the garden was completely renovated in white flowers for visitors to reflect and celebrate the life of Princess Diana.
Kensington Palace Gardens
Walk in the footsteps of royalty in the stunning gardens of Kensington Palace. The Sunken Garden, Cradle Walk, Wildflowers and Formal gardens are some of the top must-visit Kensington Palace Gardens.
Who built Kensington Palace?
Christopher Wren
Christopher Wren, a master of English Baroque architecture, significantly contributed to Kensington Palace’s grandeur. In 1689, he transformed Nottingham House into a royal residence for King William III and Queen Mary II. Wren designed the state apartments, including the grand Cupola Room and Orangery, showcasing his ornate and grandiose style expertise. His collaboration with Nicholas Hawksmoor further enhanced the palace’s architectural legacy, making it a lasting testament to his brilliance.
Nicholas Hawksmoor
Nicholas Hawksmoor served as the Clerk of Works at Kensington Palace from 1689 to 1715, overseeing its expansion and rebuilding under Sir Christopher Wren's direction. Notably, Hawksmoor supervised the construction of the Orangery between 1704 and 1705, ensuring Wren's design was expertly executed. His role involved managing daily construction activities and overseeing builders and craftsmen, playing a crucial part in realizing Wren's architectural vision for the palace.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Kensington Palace
What is Kensington Palace known for?
Kensington Palace is popularly known for its beautiful architecture that has a long history of being home to many royalties.
When was Kensington Palace built?
Kensington Palace was originally built in 1605 as a two-storey palace.
Who had occupied Kensington Palace initially?
The palace was first occupied by Sir Choppin that was followed by the Earl of Nottingham, and many others.
Who lives in Kensington Palace now?
The family of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge currently lives in Kensington Palace now.
Is Kensington Palace still a part of the royal residents?
Yes, it is still a part of the royal residents.
How long does it take to cover Kensington Palace?
It takes nearly 2-3 hours to cover Kensington palace in its entirety