Delve into the history of Hampton Court Palace with a 15-minute talk from an expert member of our Palace Host team.
Explore fascinating stories of the Palace’s famous residents, monarchs, and workers from the past. Discover how the building and gardens have changed and evolved over the years.
Celebrate and discover these interesting and diverse stories with us, making your visit here one to remember!
A different story is explored at each time slot.
Seasonal themes linked to the palace are also explored during; October for Halloween, December for Christmas and as part of our Tulip Festival in April/May.
September Palace Host Talks
This September, the topics explored in our daily talks take inspiration from our Tudor World exhibition.
From influences in Tudor fashion, and the changing view of the Court Fool; to the Ottoman Empire and the story of La Peregrind Pearl, these talks have something for everyone.
We will explore different stories at each talk.
When
11:30 and 14:30
Talks last approximately 15 minutes.Where
Old Kitchen Shop (next to the Wine Cellar). Access: There are four steps down into the cellar. Step-free access to the cellar is via the Undercroft Shop in Base Court.
Ticket Information
Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Buy Hampton Court Palace tickets
Halloween Talks
11:30 and 14:30 - Located in William III's Apartments
Delve into the spookier side of the palace's history and join our Palace Hosts to uncover the history of Halloween, from witches and ghosts to the mysterious side of Hampton Court's Kings and Queens.
Why was James I so concerned with witches? What was Elizabeth I's connection to magic, and what have turnips got to do with Halloween? Find out as the Palace Hosts share their insights into the past, including tales of ghostly palace happenings from Tudor times to present day.
We will explore different stories throughout the day and, similar our other Palace Host talks, each Halloween talk will last 15 minutes.
EXPLORE WHAT'S ON
- Things to see
Hampton Court Gardens
Take time to explore and relax in these world-renowned gardens and find our free entry Garden Open Days dates.
- Open
- In line with palace opening hours
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission (Members go free)
- 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)
- Things to see
Henry VIII's Kitchens
Transport yourself back to the heyday of Tudor feasting and entertainment in Henry VIII's Kitchens at Hampton Court Palace.
- Open
- In line with palace opening hours
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission (Members go free)
BROWSE MORE HISTORY AND STORIES
Catherine Howard
A young woman whose marriage to Henry VIII would end in tragedy
Jane Seymour
Henry VIII's third and favourite wife
The gardens at Hampton Court Palace
A brief history of the famous royal gardens
Shop online
Shop Hampton Court Palace Gifts
Our gifts and souvenirs are are inspired by over 500 years of history from Hampton Court Palace.
From £2.50
Shop Tudor gifts
Browse through our Tudor Collection to find a whole range of products based on the Tudors.
From £3.00
Elizabeth's Women by Tracy Borman
Discover the world of Elizabeth I with this insightful look at Elizabeth's relationship with woman and how they helped to shape her into a remarkable monarch. This thrilling book explores the lesser known side of Elizabeth I who is often portrayed as a ruthless 'man's woman'.
£16.99