Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace unveils a palace of secret stories and public lives. Arrive through stunning landscaped gardens and be greeted by a statue of one of Kensington Palace’s most famous residents, Queen Victoria. Walk in the footsteps of Kings and Queens as you venture through the elegant state apartments. Filled with stories of two royal courts; the Stuarts and the Hanoverians, step back in time as you discover what you would have worn, how you would have had to behave and how to navigate the heady atmosphere of court at Kensington Palace. Victoria – A royal childhood. Most are aware of the “unamused” older Queen Victoria, however through a display of objects relating to her early years, you will gain an intimate insight into the world of the creative and vibrant princess destined to rule over the greatest empire the world had ever seen. All within the permanent representation of Victoria’s childhood rooms, discover the princess’s education, family life, friendships and bitter struggles during her life under the strict “Kensington System”. Emeralds (and diamonds) are a girl’s best friend! Don’t miss out on the chance to marvel at the breath-taking Tiaras commissioned for Victoria by her husband, Prince Albert. Featuring the magnificent diamond and emerald diadem, emerald neckless, earrings and brooch, this display is a true testament to the pure love Albert had for his wife. Victoria – Woman and crown is a new exhibition in the Pigott Galleries uncovering the private woman behind the throne and re-examines her later life and legacy. Included in this exhibition are rare survivals from Victoria’s private wardrobe including a fashionable pari of silver boots. This intriguing story also reveals how her 9 children and 42 grandchildren extended her influence across Europe and the Empire. This exhibition will close 5 January 2020. Palace Gardens – the beautiful gardens connect the palace with the landscape of the wider Kensington Gardens providing picturesque vistas. You will also be able to see the beautiful sunken garden, one of Princess Diana’s favourite spots and where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle posed for their engagement photos. Garden history tours are available in the summer months but hurry as places are on a first come first served basis! Do you want to visit more Royal sites? Upgrade to the Royal Palaces Pass to include admission to the Tower of London and Hampton Court. Your pass includes one visit to each attraction and is valid for two years. You'll have plenty of time to explore the stories and intrigues at each site at your leisure, as part of your own itinerary.