Exploring the Kensington Palace London
Kensington Palace is one of several royal residences located in Greater London. In fact, it’s one of the most central. If you are planning spa breaks in London, then Kensington Palace is the perfect destination in tandem with your treatment. The palace is less busy than other palace attractions and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. On the other hand, the attraction is suitable for children. Consult our guide to the palace before you visit.
What is Kensington Palace?
Kensington Palace is a royal palace in the borough of Chelsea and Kensington, West London. It was constructed in the early 17th century under the architect, Christopher Wren. Since then, it has remained in continuous use as a residence of the British royal family.
Queen Victoria grew up at Kensington Palace while Princess Margaret — sister of the late Queen Elizabeth II — resided there as did Diane, Princess of Wales. Even more recently, the princes Harry and William have dwelled at Kensington Palace with their families.
Where is Kensington Palace?
Kensington Palace is located in Kensington Gardens, which merges with Hyde Park. The closest London Underground station is High Street Kensington while the area is well connected via the London bus network.
How to visit Kensington Palace?
Admission to Kensington Palace requires a ticket that you can buy in person at the property or online in advance. To avoid disappointment, we advise purchasing yours from the comfort of the Montcalm Hotel.
What to see and do at Kensington Palace?
Once you have your ticket, you will tour the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments. These are furnished with antique furnishings and priceless works of art from the Royal Collection. You will also see the reimagined childhood rooms of Queen Victoria.
Admission grants access to permanent and temporary displays. It includes the use of an audio guide with which you can roam the galleries at leisure without being in a tour group. There are activities to engage children.
You can also see the Sunken Garden and visit the memorial to Princess Diana.
Can you eat at Kensington Palace?
Food is not permitted inside Kensington Palace. However you can enjoy a picnic in the grounds or have a light meal or afternoon tea at the palace cafe. This will tide you over until dinner at the Montcalm Restaurant.
When is the best time to visit Kensington Palace?
Kensington Palace is open year-round. Because the exhibition is fully enclosed, you can visit it even during inclement weather. The palace is busiest at weekends and during the school holidays. In order to get the most out of your experience, we recommended visiting early in the day during these peak hours.
What else is there to do near Kensington Palace?
Pull on your comfiest shoes before leaving The Montcalm At The Brewery and you can spend the whole day exploring the area. In addition to the palace and gardens, you can visit Hyde Park, shop on High Street Kensington, and conclude with a performance at the Royal Albert Hall.