Free cancellation with conditionsExplore one of London's most iconic palaces and walk in the footsteps of British sovereigns at Kensington Palace!
An ancient royal residence transformed in the XVIIᵉ century, Kensington Palace is a place where the history of the British monarchy intertwines intimately with the personal stories of its residents. It was the residence of William III and Mary II, Queen Anne, George II, and later the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria, who lived there until her accession to the throne in 1837.
Throughout your visit, you'll discover how women have shaped the palace's history. From Queen Mary II, who oversaw its transformation with architect Christopher Wren, to Queen Victoria, via Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales, the apartments reflect the strong female imprint left on the premises and British history.
You'll enter the State Apartments(appartements d'Etat), sumptuously decorated, and can admire in particular the King's Staircase, the Queen's State Rooms and the Jewel Room, where personal objects and jewels that once belonged to queens and princesses are on display. The included audio guide will accompany you through each room, recounting anecdotes, transformations and landmark events at the palace.
You'll also visit the " Dress Codes", which traces the evolution of royal clothing style through the centuries. You'll learn more about the relationship between appearance, power and social status in royal circles.
Outdoors, you'll stroll through Kensington Gardens(gardens), through French-designed walkways punctuated by ponds and statues. Take a break at the Orangery, the elegant 18thᵉ century garden pavilion, now transformed into a tea room and restaurant.
Currently home to several members of the Royal Family, Kensington Palace today remains a living palace, rooted in tradition yet open to the present.
