February Half Term

Elizabeth I's Spy Mission

Make this half term extraordinary, and escape to a world of mystery at Hampton Court Palace. Step back in time, join a royal quest and undertake a top-secret mission!

Elizabeth I has now been on the throne for over 15 years and plots against her are increasing. There is still no royal marriage, no heir and threats of war from Spain!

With suspicion rife around the palace the Queen needs to recruit spies to understand the danger and who she can trust - unfortunately there's a lot of funny business going on.

Your spy mission

Join Elizabeth I's spy network and go on an undercover operation for the Queen.

We need as many agents as possible to quiz and spy on the suspicious characters going about the palace, help decode secret messages and report back your findings to the Queen.

Can you work out who is telling the truth and who isn't?

Continue the fun

Explore the ultimate playground in the Magic Garden, reopening for February half term. Discover the secret grotto, conquer a scary dragon and besiege the towers, there's plenty of fun for all.

Pre-book your tickets now for an unforgettable day of family fun, members go free.

When

15 February - 23 February 2025

11:00-15:30

Ticketing information

Performances at set times each day. See timetable below for more information.

Included in palace admission (Members go free)

Buy Hampton Court Palace tickets

Portrait of actress in costume ( dressed as Elizabeth I.) — *Image: © History Riot. Image shows 2024 cast.*

A female Past Pleasures live interpreter actor talking with a group of children visitors, November 2009. (Action shot.)

Get involved in the action

Discover live performances across the palace throughout your visit. Don't miss out on helping the Queen work out who can be trusted and who is plotting her downfall.

The Queen Emerges

Base Court

11:00 - 20 mins

Meet the Queen and her Spymaster as they set you on a secret mission.

Spy School

Queen's Guard Chamber

11:45 and 14:00 - 20 mins

Help Elizabeth I's Spymaster to solve the mysterious code. Is the Queen in danger?

Watch Out, Spies About

Chapel Court

13:00 - 20 mins

Time to be a spy! Who can you spot in the courtyard and what would the Queen say if she found out?

Problems of Being Queen

Council Chamber

13:30 - Up to 60 mins, drop in

Elizabeth I is holding court. Do you have any top-secret information you would like to share with her or questions to ask?

Making a Happy Queen

Great Watching Chamber

15:00 - 15 mins

The Queen is feeling sad. Can you assist her courtiers in cheering her up?

The Truth Is Out

Great Hall

15:15 - 20 mins

Can you help the Queen to finally discover the truth about her courtiers and decide what to do?

Young family playing with jugs and cups in Henry VIII's Kitchen installations.

Explore Elizabeth I's home

Don’t miss exploring other highlights at Elizabeth I’s home. Discover Henry VIII’s magnificent Great Hall, complete the UK’s oldest hedge maze and run free in 60 acres of stunning gardens.

Let off steam in the epic Magic Garden children’s playground, and after all that adventure cosy up in the café with a warming drink and delicious cake, or a nutritious lunch.