Name: Dementia-friendly programme
Start: 2026-02-17T10:30
End: 2026-02-17T12:00
Location: Hampton Court Palace

Explore the stories and spaces of our palaces in a welcoming and relaxed environment

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When

17 February 2026

10:30 - 12:30

Booking information

Places are limited, please contact communities@hrp.org.uk for availability.

Free (advance booking required)

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Tours and talks

About the programme

For nearly a decade, our dementia-friendly programme has enabled people affected by dementia to explore the stories and spaces of our palaces and gardens to support their mental health and wellbeing.

We aim to create a welcoming environment and a relaxed experience for individuals, companions and groups affected by dementia by encouraging creativity, providing opportunities for social interaction and a person-centred approach.

Creative Workshop: The art and symbolism of brooches

Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026
Time: 10:30 - 12:30
Location: Clore Learning Centre, Hampton Court Palace

Join textile artist Alice Burnhope for a relaxed and inspiring morning of brooch-making, with tea, coffee, and creativity flowing. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll gently explore the rich and fascinating history of brooches.

Inspired by historic examples, including portraits of Elizabeth I and her symbolic brooches, you’ll have the opportunity to create your own bespoke piece that reflects your personality, story and style. Leave with a beautifully handmade, jazzy brooch to wear, treasure, and show to the world. Ground floor, wheelchair accessible

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Programme Evaluation 2018

An evaluation of the benefits for people living with dementia and their carers and the impact of the heritage setting. Please note that the programme was previously called 'Sensory Palaces'.

Download summary report

Download full report

Dementia-friendly palaces

We are committed to making Historic Royal Palaces a Dementia-friendly heritage organisation across all of our sites.

We deliver the Alzheimer’s Society’s 'Dementia Friends' information sessions to our staff and volunteers in order to raise awareness and understanding so that we are better able to support people living with dementia at our palaces and in our communities. We are a proud member of Age UK Dementia Friendly Communities Richmond.

Dementia-friendly heritage group

We lead the Dementia Friendly Heritage Group, a peer network comprising 18 heritage sites across the UK who are committed to developing and sharing dementia-friendly heritage best practice, thinking and support. New members are more than welcome! Please contact communities@hrp.org.uk for more information or to join the network.