A working royal residence set within Kensington Gardens, this has been home to members of the royal family since the late 17th century, including William and Mary and later Queen Victoria, who was born and raised there. Public rooms include the King's and Queen's State Apartments, decorated with period furnishings and royal portraits.
Kensington Palace sits within Kensington Gardens in west London and has been a royal residence since the late 17th century, serving as the childhood home of Queen Victoria and today housing working members of the Royal Family. The King's State Apartments showcase Baroque interiors and royal portraiture, while the Queen's State Apartments recreate the rooms where Victoria grew up and learned she had become queen in 1837. Rotating exhibitions on royal fashion display historic gowns, including pieces associated with Diana, Princess of Wales. Outside, the Sunken Garden, modelled on the gardens at Hampton Court, offers a formal counterpoint to the wider parkland of Kensington Gardens surrounding the palace. A visit typically takes around two hours, and is best combined with a walk through the gardens, which are especially attractive in spring when cherry blossom and crocuses bloom along the paths. The palace is quieter on weekday mornings than at weekends, when family visits to the adjoining playground and gardens add to footfall around the site.
| Admission | Adults £21.50 / approx USD 27; children (5–15) £10.75 / approx USD 14; under-5s free. Book at hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace. |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 10:00–18:00 (last entry 17:00) |
| Typical visit | 2 hours |
| Best time | Weekday mornings; Kensington Gardens beautiful in spring (March–May) with crocuses and cherry blossom |
| Getting there | Tube: High Street Kensington (Circle/District) or Queensway (Central); 10–15 minute walk through Kensington Gardens |
| Address | Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX |
Location
Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX
51.5051, -0.1877 View on map
Highlights
- King's State Apartments with Baroque interiors
- Queen's State Apartments, Queen Victoria's childhood rooms
- Sunken Garden modelled on Hampton Court
- Royal fashion and gown exhibitions
- Surrounding parkland of Kensington Gardens
Tips for visiting
- Book timed tickets online for a discount over walk-up prices
- Combine the visit with a walk through Kensington Gardens
- Check ahead for temporary gallery closures due to rotating exhibitions
- An audio guide is included with admission
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid weekend family crowds around the gardens
When to visit
Weekday mornings are quietest; Kensington Gardens is loveliest in spring (March to May) with blossom.
Accessibility
Step-free access is available to the ground floor State Apartments; some upper areas are reached by stairs only, so contacting the palace in advance is recommended for full accessibility details.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Kensington Palace take?
Most visitors spend around two hours touring the State Apartments and exhibitions.
Is Kensington Palace worth it for kids?
It appeals more to older children interested in royal history; the surrounding gardens and playground are better suited to younger children.
Is photography allowed inside Kensington Palace?
Photography without flash is allowed inside the State Apartments.