A day of serious nonsense
If you're looking for an unmissable family day out jam-packed with lively events, fun workshops, spectacular entertainment and oodles of silliness, you'll get it all at The Big Bahooey this May Half Term Bank Holiday Weekend at Hampton Court Palace.
What to do-ey at The Big Bahooey
You can try juggling, plate spinning, wire walking and more in the circus workshops. Slap on some headphones and dance yourself silly at the silent disco. Belt out a tune at the singalongs. Cheer the acrobats and jugglers. Be wowed by a circus or music show. Get crafty at the Boxville cardboard workshop. Gaze in awe at the stilt walkers. Be captivated by the mesmerising street theatre, or snap a selfie with the cool creatures wandering Hampton Court Palace Gardens.
Our acts are coming from all around the globe, including Tanzania, New Zealand—even Bristol!
Oh, and don't worry about the weather—rain or shine, The Big Bahooey is on.
The Big Bahooey is in collaboration with Cirque Bijou.
When
24 - 26 May 2025
Open in line with palace hours.Ticketing information
Members go free, pre-booking required via the member portal.
Included in palace admission. (Members go free, pre-booking required)
Buy Hampton Court Palace tickets Member tickets
Need to catch your breath during the day?
No problem.
Your ticket gives you free access to the entire 60-acre palace and gardens.
Have a nosey around Henry VIII's famous home, take a spellbinding trip to the Magic Garden, trek the twisty-turny pathways of the Maze, or flop yourself down on the grass with a home-made family picnic or a tasty treat from our street food vendors.
Hang on, what does 'Bahooey' mean?
Bahooey means 'utter silliness' and 'nonsense', making it the perfect name for our fun-filled family day out, don't you think?
Frequently asked questions
See FAQs for more information about the event.
Read FAQs
Become a member
Join as a member of Historic Royal Palaces and get a full year of unlimited adventures at Henry VIII’s famous palace, gardens and playground.
Experience jaw-dropping events for all the family, including a joust, a delicious Food Festival, spooktacular Halloween and more. Not only that, but you’ll also enjoy limitless visits to the Tower of London, Kensington Palace and Hillsborough Castle for free!
Become a member
Explore what's on
- 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.
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Daily from 30 March 2025: 10:00 - 18:00 (opens at 11:00 on 06 April). Closes at 15:00 on 31 March - 04 April
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission (Members go free)
- 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)
- Easter
- Families
- Events
Easter Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt
Join the Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt around the gardens and enjoy some springtime family fun.
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29 March - 21 April 2025
- Open in line with palace hours
- Hampton Court Palace
- Included in palace admission. (Members go free, no pre-booking required)
Browse more history and stories
The gardens at Hampton Court Palace
A brief history of the famous royal gardens
Chocolate fit for a king
Where royal chocolate makers prepared this expensive delicacy
Tudor food and eating
Royal food and table manners at the Tudor court
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
The Story of Hampton Court Palace
A fascinating, lavishly illustrated account of the world-renowned Hampton Court Palace.
£14.95
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