Insights and behind the scenes from our palaces
Using Heritage Science to Conserve Queen Caroline's State Bed
13 September 2024
Work on Queen Caroline’s much-loved State bed, which we care for on behalf of the Royal Collection Trust, continues at Hampton Court Palace and our attentions are now drawn to protecting the feet of this priceless historic object.
The King’s Favourite: George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham
01 February 2024
In the ruthless world of the Stuart court, royal favour was everything. No one knew this better than George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, whose rise to power was built on the love and patronage of James I.
400 Years of William Shakespeare at Hampton Court
06 November 2023
On 8 November 1623, John Heminges and Henry Condell, completed the collected works of William Shakespeare – now known as the ‘First Folio’. Here, we explore how this period was brought to life at Hampton Court Palace this summer, using research into the playwright’s palace connections.
The Tempest at Whitehall Palace
01 November 2021
1 November 1611 was the first recorded performance of William Shakespeare's The Tempest. Curator Brett Dolman reflects on the Jacobean court setting in which it was first performed and how its themes reflect the ambitions and fears of James I's reign.