Itinerary for Hampton Court Palace

Go through to Clock Court and enter Henry VIII’s apartments. Gaze at the magnificent ceilings of the Great Hall, before heading to the Great Watching Chamber, where the King’s bodyguards (Yeoman of the Guard) were once stationed to control access to the King. Next, see the Presence Chamber, the King’s official throne room.

Before visiting the next half of the apartments, which include the Privy Chambers, Bedroom and Secret Lodgings, you’ll see the infamous Haunted Gallery and Processional Route, allegedly haunted by Henry VIII’s fifth queen, Catherine Howard. The Royal Pew can be accessed via this route, which holds the fascinating recreation of Henry’s Crown.

Discover more about William III and Mary II, who ruled alongside each other and were part of the Stuart dynasty.

Head along Clock Court to William III’s Apartments. Head up the King’s Staircase (or ask staff for assistance using the lift), to the rooms where the King held ceremonies, carried out important business and much more.

Discover the King’s State Apartments, including the Guard Chamber, Presence Chamber, Eating Room, Privy Chamber and Bedchambers. Also explore the private Apartments (only open half term and holidays) an area only accessible to the King himself and his favourite people, showcasing his prized possessions and private drawing room.

Head out from Fountain Court and take a stroll around the gardens.

Once you’ve finished exploring the palace, take a look around the picturesque gardens, including the Privy Garden, Wilderness, Rose Garden and more. If you have brought the family with you, also explore the Magic Garden, perfect for your little ones to roam free.  

Next, head to the Chapel Royal. Still an active Chapel with services every Sunday, see the vaulted ceilings Henry VIII once prayed under from the Royal Pew above the main body of the Chapel, which can be entered via the Haunted Gallery. Head out into Fountain Court.

From Clock Court, access the Georgian Story. Head up the Queen’s Stairs or ask staff for assistance with the lift and explore the grandeur of the Georgian royal court as you head through these spectacular rooms.

Head past Fountain Court to the Chocolate Kitchens. Rediscovered in 2013, this former Grace and Favour kitchen that served the apartments above was used as a flower store, filled with pots, shelves and vases. Explore this magnificent hidden gem, which was originally built for William III and Mary II and served Georgian Kings. 

Discover this fascinating exhibition and learn about the Indian Army soldiers who camped at the Palace. See objects, photographs, film footage, and learn about what life was like in the camps, as well as their backstories. 

Explore more about the history of the palace with an insightful 15-minute talk from a member of our Palace Host team. Discover stories of the Palace’s former residents and monarchs and hear about how the palace and the gardens have changed over the centuries.