Join a royal quest this half term
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When
14 – 22 February 2026
10:00-16:00Ticketing information
Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Buy Hampton Court Palace ticketsPerformances are at set times each day. Timetable coming soon.
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 see if you can win over Queen Elizabeth I.
Don't miss also exploring the entire palace, 60 acres of gardens, and the popular Magic Garden playground - reopening in time for half term.
Elizabeth I's Great Gift Off
Queen Elizabeth I has demanded a gift and the whole palace is desperate to obey! The best gift will gain the greatest reward, the Queen's favour, so it's a fight for first place.
Four courtiers are already in the running to present their gift, with an intriguing mix of ideas, from dancing and poetry to toilets!
Find out what each courtier will gift and gather information about Elizabeth I and her world, then meet her yourself to see if you can beat them with a fabulous gift idea of your own.
Discover live performances across the palace throughout your visit. Scenes will run daily 10:30 - 15:30.
Pre-book your tickets now for an unforgettable day of family fun this half term, members go free
Continue the fun
Don't miss exploring other highlights at Elizabeth I's home. Discover a magnificent Great Hall built by Elizabeth I's father Henry VIII, and complete the UK's oldest hedge maze.
Let off steam in the Magic Garden children's playground, reopening for February half term.
Discover a secret grotto, conquer a scary dragon and besiege the towers - there's plenty of fun for all.
And after all that adventure, cosy up in the café with a warming drink and delicious cake, or nutritious lunch.
Explore what's on
- Christmas
- Families
Christmas Festivities
Join our Christmas Festivities at Hampton Court Palace. Discover Tudor Christmas cookery, interesting themed-talks and hear festive music as you explore Henry VIII's former home.
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20 December until 04 January 2026 (Excluding 24-26 December).
- 10:00 to 16:00
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission (Members go free)
- Families
- Things to see
The Magic Garden
Meet mysterious beasts, storm the battlements and discover the secret grotto in the Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace this Christmas.
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Open until 04 January (excluding 24-26 December)
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission (Members go free)
- Events
- Families
Beano Havoc at Hampton Court Palace
Experience a blamtastic summer adventure with Dennis and pals at Hampton Court Palace
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25 July - 23 August 2026
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission. (Members go free, pre-booking required)
Browse more history and stories
Henry VIII
Who was the real Henry VIII?
The Field of Cloth of Gold
Henry VIII's historic meeting with his great rival François I in 1520 was a defining point in his reign
The Elizabethan era: a golden age?
Was the Elizabethan period really a 'golden era' of English history?
Shop online
Shop Tudors
Find the perfect gift for collectors and history enthusiasts in our treasure trove of souvenirs inspired by this ever-fascinating dynasty.
From £3.00
Shop Goblets & Tankards
Discover our decadent range of goblets and tankards inspired by the palaces in our care, the perfect gift for any history fan.
From £10.00
Henry VIII Gauntlet Armour Oven Glove
This fun oven glove is inspired by a suit of armour made for Henry VIII in 1540, currently on display at the Tower of London.
£18.00