Christmas courtiers and music at the palace
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When
03 December until 04 January 2026 (Excluding 24-26 December)
Ticketing information
Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Buy Hampton Court Palace ticketsSee access information below.
Step into the magic of Christmas at Hampton Court Palace, where you’ll see historic Tudor cookery, enjoy festive melodies from the past and hear Christmas themed talks given by our Palace Hosts.
Christmas Talks
Join our Palace Hosts and delve into the history of Christmas. From festive foods and decorations to Charles Dickens and stories of the royal residents who once lived within these historic walls. It’s a joyful journey through history that you won’t want to miss!
03 December - 04 January (excluding 24 - 26 December) 11:45 and 14:00 in the Wine Cellar.
See information on Tudor Christmas cookery and Festive music below.
Discover Tudor Christmas cookery
This festive season in Henry VIII's Kitchens you’ll discover beef roasting while you warm up by the fire, and a selection of other Court favourites being prepared for you to investigate.
Image: Tudor cookery
Hear festive music at the palace
As you explore the palace this Christmas, keep your ears open for the sounds of live seasonal music filling the air and echoing through our historic halls. Our talented musicians will be popping up in various locations like the Great Hall and the King's Guard Chamber, playing joyful tunes from across history – including some familiar favourites to get you humming along!
Our lively and entertaining Masters of Ceremonies will be on hand to guide you through the musical moments and spread some extra yuletide joy.
05 - 07 December, 12 - 14 December, 20 December - 04 January (excluding 24 - 26 December). 10:00 - 16:00.
Image: Christmas musicians at Hampton Court Palace
Access information
Some of the musical performances will take place in the Great Hall and Great Watching Chamber in Henry VIII’s Apartments, and King’s Guard Chamber in William III’s Apartments. These rooms are located on the first floor.
If you need assistance with the lift, please ask our Palace Hosts.
Accessibility at Hampton Court Palace
Learn more about accessibility at Hampton Court Palace, including resources such as access guides.
Explore what's on
- Families
- Events
- Christmas
Hampton Court Palace ice rink
Get your skates on and glide around this stunning outdoor ice rink this festive season.
-
21 November - 04 January 2026 (excluding Christmas Day)
- 10:00-20:00
- Hampton Court Palace
- Separate ticket (palace admission not included)
- Tours and talks
Guided tours
For a truly memorable experience, book one of our knowledgeable guides for a private tour.
- Available (pre-booking)
- Hampton Court Palace
- Separate ticket
- Things to see
Great Hall
Experience the splendour of the Tudor court in Henry VIII's Great Hall, complete with his magnificent tapestries.
- Open
- In line with palace opening hours
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Browse more history and stories
Tudor food and eating
Royal food and table manners at the Tudor court
Henry VIII, Terrible Tudor?
Who was the real Henry VIII?
Elizabeth I, the Last Tudor
From Tower prisoner to English Queen
Shop online
Shop Christmas
Make the festive season one to cherish and remember with our selection of wonderful history-inspired gifts, tree decorations and delicious food and drink.
From £1.00
Shop Food & Drink
Indulge in our scrumptious collection of chocolates, preserves, jams, biscuits, tea and the finest liqueurs.
From £4.50
Shop Hanging Decorations
Browse through our beautiful range of hanging decorations, ornaments and baubles including unique and hand-made pieces.
From £5.50