London Attractions Familiar Attractions Hampton CourtHampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace was built for Cardinal Wolsey in 1514, the palace was offered as a gift to Henry VIII, when Wolsey fell from favour (as all catholics did) with the formation of the 
Church of England, broadly parallel to the greater movement of the Reformation, throughout Europe. Though many believe that the opulence of Hampton Court Palace, far exceeded the King's residence of Whitehall Palace, so it was unlikely that Henry would let the matter pass unchecked. A great building programme followed including the extensive kitchens and Great Hall, all of which were built to serve his enlarged court of over 1,000 members. At this point Hampton Court Palace became the official residence of the Monarch.
The palace saw a second building programme undertaken during the Stuart period and reign of William III. Wren was involved in the architectural designs including the South Front and Fountain Court. This has resulted in the palace broadly benefitting from two very different styles, which harmonise well. George II was the last Monarch to reside at Hampton Court in the early 18th century. It was opened to the public by Queen Victoria in 1838.
Bear in mind that a round trip by boat will take seven hours, which leaves only a few hours to see the palace itself. Better to travel by rail (30 minutes) and come back by boat as this will give you the most time to fully appreciate the site.
Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, KT8 9AU.
Hampton Court rail station or by river boat (Apr-Sep) from Westminster.
Call: 0844 482 7777
