Hampton Court Palace Experience Days
Hampton Court Palace is a royal palace in London, England and makes a fun-filled day out. The building lies on the south bank of the River Thames in East Molesey. It has been a residence of English monarchs since 1689 when William III and Mary II bought it from his brother-in-law Charles II.
The palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. Its homely atmosphere and well-preserved architecture attract visitors from all over the world. The court is managed by Historic Royal Palaces, an independent charity, and is listed as a Grade I listed building.
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Some History of Hampton Court Palace
The original site was one of Henry VIII's hunting grounds before acquiring nearby Richmond Palace for his queen consort Anne Boleyn. Hampton Court House was built around 1538 by Thomas Cardinal Wolsey, who had recently risen to become Lord Chancellor of England but just two years later lost power after being accused of treasonous activities against King Henry VIII and his annulment with Catherine of Aragon. It was lived in by Elizabeth I for a short period.
After her death, it passed to James I, who enlarged the building and then to Charles I in 1625, who used it as a home during his second marriage to Henrietta Maria. The palace was confiscated by Parliament during the English Civil War and was later restored to Charles II in 1660. After the Glorious Revolution in 1688, William III and Mary II moved into the palace. In 1737, George II renovated some staterooms and added a new orangery.
Hampton Court Palace Tours
The Hampton Court Palace is the only royal palace, still used by a reigning monarch, open to the public. It has been open every year since 1982. The guided tours allow visitors to view more of its history, including Tudor Kitchens restored to Anne Boleyn's time and the Throne Room, which includes some lavish decor from James I. From October until March, visitors can also see some of the palace rooms in darkness as candlelit scenes or special lighting effects. Daily performances on instruments dating back over 400 years for visitors to explore during the summer months. Every August bank holiday weekend, there is an annual firework display on the terrace within sight of St Paul's Cathedral on the other side of the River Thames. The Thames itself is a popular picnic spot for families, and kayakers will often drift along the river in front of the palace.
Hampton Court River Cruise
Could you make the most of it? Take a relaxing three-hour river cruise from Westminster to Hampton Court Palace to retrace the Royal Barge Route. Take in the sights and sounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Richmond, and other notable landmarks as you go along. You may get a great view of London from the riverside. The train is ready to go!
Hampton Court Afternoon Tea: A British Tradition
Follow the royal theme with an afternoon tea suitable for Henry VIII following a tour at Hampton Court Palace. Assortment of finger sandwiches, cream, and scones served with coffee and tea, as well as bubbly for good measure are all included in this delectable repast. Just be careful not to overdo it. It's unlikely that we'd want someone to meet their maker, would it?