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Members-Only Garden History Tours

Hampton Court Palace

  • Tours of the Hampton Court Palace gardens for Historic Royal Palaces members
  • Join our volunteer guides as they share the historical highlights of The WildernessKitchen Garden, and Tiltyard

Guides will lead you through some of the most historic and fascinating parts of the Hampton Court Palace gardens, covering over 500 years of history – including The Wilderness, Kitchen Garden, and Tiltyard.

Garden History Tour including the Nursery: 04 May, 09 May

Step back in time as guides reveal how The Wilderness, Kitchen Garden, and Tiltyard were historically used by the kings and royal courts of the past — and see how they’ve been reimagined today. Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at our Nursery, where plants are carefully cultivated by our Gardens team.

Due to the nature of these spaces, this event is not fully accessible for wheelchair users. Please contact us in advance to discuss any particular access requirements. 

Garden History Tour: 08 June

Discover the Tudor origins of the beautiful gardens and their evolution over the centuries. Hear how the Royal Kitchen Garden supplied fresh produce for William III’s royal table. Wander through The Wilderness, a place of tranquil retreat for generations. Stand on the site of the Tiltyard, once Henry VIII’s jousting ground.

Please be aware that these are walking tours with limited opportunities to sit down. These tours lasts approximately 60 minutes.

When

04 May, 09 May, 08 June, 09 July

10:30-11:30

Ticketing information

04 May, 09 May and 08 June are fully booked. Tickets for 09 July go on sale on 28 May.

Members go free. Advance booking required.

This is a members-only event for named Historic Royal Palaces members only. All attendees must hold a valid membership at the time of the event.


Free (advance booking required)

Book tickets online
Planting in the nurseries at Hampton Court Palace, including the citrus collection, The National Collection of Queen Mary II Exoticks and other National Collections
The Wilderness, looking towards a small tree covered in white blossom. A grass pathway is in the foreground and yellow daffodils dotted around in the grass.
Early spring in the Kitchen Garden, Hampton Court Palace

Explore what's on

BOOKING SOON

  • For members
  • Events

Members-Only Early Gardens Access

Enjoy this members-only opportunity to experience the tranquility and beauty of the historic gardens at Hampton Court Palace, one hour before we open to the public; and enjoy 50% off in the Tiltyard café.

  • 08 June 2025

  • 09:00 - 10:00
  • Hampton Court Palace
  • Separate ticket (advance booking required)
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  • For members
  • Tours and talks
  • Events

Members-Only Palace Host Tours

Discover fascinating stories about the kings, queens, and historical figures who shaped the palace on a members-only tour with our expert Palace Hosts.

  • 26 April, 17 May and 28 June

  • 10:00-11:00
  • Hampton Court Palace
  • Free
Learn more

BOOKING SOON

  • For members
  • Events
  • Families

Members-Only Bring Your Own Picnic Evening

Relax in the Wilderness and East Front Gardens after-hours on this members-only picnic evening. Bring your own picnic, blanket, chairs and games and enjoy the gardens without the crowds.

  • 25 July 2025

  • 18:00 - 20:30
  • Hampton Court Palace
  • Separate ticket (advance booking required)
Learn more