Highlights:
- Explore this fine, stylish palace, shaped and influenced by generations of Royal women
- Walk in the elegant gardens among the ornamental flower beds, ponds and fountains.
- See "The Enchanted Palace", a spectacular exhibition created using celebrated designers, such as Vivienne Westwood.
This house was bought by William and Mary in 1689, and was adapted for royal residence for them by Sir Christopher Wren and then for the next 70 years it played host to the courts of Queen Anne, George I and George II. Princess Victoria spent her childhood here and she was here when she found out she had become Queen. The influence of generations of Royal women have shaped this stylish palace and its elegant gardens, including Queen Mary to Queen Victoria and Princess Margaret to Princess Diana.
Enchanted Palace
The mysterious world of The Enchanted Palace continues in the State Apartments until January 2012. New for 2011, it's definitely not traditional, but exploring the historic rooms filled with stunning cutting-edge modern art and fashion, light installations all inspired by the seven princesses who lived here. Hidden stories will be revealed, such as the rebellious princess who ran from an arranged marriage into the arms of love and sad queens who bore the pain and tragedy of lost babies, and the young heir to the throne who escaped the controlling grasp of her overprotective mother.
Historic Hotspots - Visit the spots where history happened:
- Mourning the Princess of Wales (Kensington Palace and gardens: the focus of an incredible public reaction to the death of Diana, Princess of Wales)
- Queen Victoria awakes (20 June 1837 - Princess Victoria awakes at Kensington Palace to discover that she is the new Queen)
Money - Saving Passes: Valid for two years from the date of purchase, this allows visitors to organise their own itineraries.
- Four Palace Pass: includes admission to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and gardens, Kensington Palace and Banqueting House.
- Three Palace Pass: includes admission to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and gardens and Kensington Palace.
- Central London Pass: includes admission to the Tower of London, Kensington Palace and the Banqueting House.
Venue Information:
- Kensington Palace State Apartments, Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX
- Nearest Underground: High Street Kensington or Queensway
- Bus Routes: 9, 10, 49, 52, 70, 94, 148, 390, 452