Kensington Palace: practical information

If the walls of this Royal palace that served as residence to the British monarchy for over 300 years could talk, there would certainly be a lot to say!

This immense building opens its doors so you can discover the behind-the-scenes of the monarchy: apartments, personal objects, the most luxurious ornaments, clothing, correspondence, jewelry...

All representing testimonies and anecdotes about this prestigious place. Walk in the footsteps of Queen Victoria or Princess Diana by visiting one of the most important royal estates in England!

What are the opening hours of Kensington Palace?

Kensington Palace is open daily according to the following hours:

From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM from March to October.
From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM from November to February.

The palace is closed at Christmas on December 24, 25 and 26.

Should you book in advance to visit Kensington Palace?

Booking entrance tickets in advance helps avoid long queues, as Kensington Palace is, of course, one of London's most visited attractions!

What is the ticket price to visit Kensington Palace?

Here are the prices in pounds sterling and euros (2021 rates):

Adult: £17.50 or €20.96
Child: £8.70 or €10.42

jardins du alais de kensington — © Shutterstock

Who lives in Kensington Palace?

Kensington Palace is not just a museum, but the official residence of certain members of the current royal family (in the more modern parts not open to the public), such as: William and Kate, their children, or Princess Eugenie, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth. William and Kate also own a country house in Norfolk county (Anmer Hall).

Where is Kensington Palace located?

Here is the address of Kensington Palace: Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX.

How to get to Kensington Palace?

By tube

2 lines serve the palace: High Street Kensington, District Circle lines and Queensway, Central line, zone 1.

By bus

Lines: 9, 10, 49, 52, 70, 94, 148, 390 and 452 stop near Kensington Palace.

Who built Kensington Palace?

Originally, Kensington Palace was a country house built by the Earl of Nottingham in the early 17th century before being purchased in 1689 by King William III. The latter hired architect Christopher Wren to build pavilions at each corner, royal apartments, a royal chapel, as well as a main courtyard... With the aim of bringing prestige to the estate.

What to see at Kensington Palace?

Besides the building's architecture, the magnificent gardens, lake and greenhouse outside, the interior provides direct access to the intimate world of royalty:

The Victoria Revealed collection: exhibition of personal objects and Queen Victoria's wardrobe, her wedding dress, her jewelry...
The private apartments created for Queen Mary II in the 17th century.
The rooms once occupied by the royal family: the Cupola Room, the King's Gallery, Queen Victoria's bedroom, Mary of Modena's bed...

Before leaving, don't hesitate to have tea at the orangery!