How to Enjoy a Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour

If you want to immerse yourself in the rich history of English royalty, then you should book a Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour. This tour takes you on a journey through two grandiose royal residences, Hampton Court Palace, and Windsor Castle. You will get to see opulent architecture, hear fascinating stories about the royal family, and enjoy the beautiful views of the stunning gardens. Here is everything you need to know about this tour.

Experience

The Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour is a full-day tour that includes pickup from your hotel in London. You will be able to explore the two grandiose royal residences and learn about their history, architecture, and secrets. The tour includes transportation between the two palaces, so you don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting there yourself.

Highlights

The highlights of the tour include:

• A guided tour of Hampton Court Palace and Gardens
• A tour of royal Windsor, including Windsor Castle
• Photo opportunities at two stunning historic royal residences

Full description

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in London, and the first stop is Hampton Court Palace. This magnificent palace was a favorite summer home of King Henry VIII and is now a popular tourist attraction in England. The palace is an opulent fusion of architectural styles, ranging from Tudor architecture to Baroque. During your visit to Hampton Court Palace, you will get to see the lavish State Rooms, the Great Hall, and the Chapel Royal. You will also have a chance to marvel at the spectacular Abraham Tapestries, which were commissioned by King Henry VIII to celebrate the birth of his only son, Edward. The palace’s vast medieval kitchens and cellars will give you a fascinating insight into the challenges of feeding 600 people in the 16th century. Apart from the palace, you will also get to explore 60 acres of formal gardens, which are known for their beauty and grandeur. You can get lost in the world-famous maze, visit the exotic plant species in the Great Vine, and stroll through the Wilderness and Rose gardens. The second stop on your tour is Windsor Castle, which is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been home to many monarchs over the years. It is currently the residence of Queen Elizabeth II, who spends most weekends at Windsor Castle. During your tour of Windsor Castle, you will see the State Apartments, which are among the most magnificent apartments in England. You will also get to explore the exquisite St. George’s Chapel, which is the final resting place of several monarchs, including King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel in London. Throughout the journey, you will have the services of a professional driver and an expert guide who will provide you with interesting anecdotes and insights about the two historic royal residences.

Tour map

To help you visualize your journey, here’s a map of the tour’s route:

Book the tour here

If you’re ready to book your Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour, you can book online through GetYourGuide. The tour has excellent reviews from previous customers, so you can be assured of a memorable and enjoyable experience. Book now and get ready to explore two of England’s finest royal residences!

Frequently Asked Questions about Hampton Court Palace

If you’re planning a trip to Hampton Court Palace, you may have some questions about the historic site. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions.

1. What is Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace is a royal palace located in the London borough of Richmond upon Thames. It was originally built for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey in the early 16th century but was later taken over by King Henry VIII after Wolsey fell out of favor. The palace has been a residence for many generations of British monarchs and has also served as a venue for important state occasions.

2. What are the opening hours of Hampton Court Palace?

The opening hours of Hampton Court Palace vary depending on the time of year. Generally, the palace is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm from March to October and from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm from November to February. However, it’s always a good idea to check the official website before your visit to confirm the opening hours.

3. How do I get to Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace is easily accessible from central London by train, bus, or car. The nearest train station is Hampton Court, which is located a short walk from the palace. There are also several bus routes that stop near the palace. If you’re driving, there is a car park at the palace, but spaces can be limited during peak periods.

4. What can I see at Hampton Court Palace?

There is plenty to see at Hampton Court Palace, including the Tudor kitchens, the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal, and the apartments of Henry VIII. You can also wander around the beautiful gardens, which include the famous Hampton Court Maze. The palace also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

5. How much does it cost to visit Hampton Court Palace?

The cost of admission to Hampton Court Palace varies depending on whether you want to visit the palace and gardens or just the gardens. Prices also vary depending on whether you book in advance or buy tickets on the day. At the time of writing, adult tickets for the palace and gardens cost £24.50 if booked in advance and £27 if purchased on the day. Children’s tickets cost £12.20 if booked in advance and £13.50 if purchased on the day.

6. Can I take photos at Hampton Court Palace?

Photography is allowed at Hampton Court Palace, with the exception of the Royal Chapel and temporary exhibitions. However, the use of flash photography and tripods is not permitted.

7. Are there any dining options at Hampton Court Palace?

There are several dining options at Hampton Court Palace, including the Tiltyard Cafe, the Garden Cafe, and the Privy Kitchen Cafe. The palace also has a range of picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own food.

8. Is Hampton Court Palace wheelchair accessible?

Hampton Court Palace is largely wheelchair accessible, although some areas of the palace may be difficult to navigate due to the historic nature of the building. The palace offers a range of services for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair hire, audio guides, and sign language tours. Assistance dogs are also welcome at the palace.

9. What events are held at Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace hosts a range of events throughout the year, including concerts, theater performances, and historical reenactments. The palace is also a popular venue for weddings and corporate events.

10. Can I stay overnight at Hampton Court Palace?

While you can’t stay overnight at Hampton Court Palace itself, there are several hotels and bed and breakfasts in the surrounding area. The palace also offers a range of guided tours and overnight experiences, including a ghost tour and a sleepover in the Tudor palace.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. If you’re planning to visit, there are many things to see and do, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Hampton Court Palace.

1. Take a Historical Tour

Hampton Court Palace has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The palace was first built in 1515 for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, but it was later taken by King Henry VIII. Taking a historical tour of the palace is one of the best ways to learn about its fascinating past. You can either join a guided tour or explore the palace on your own. If you choose the latter, be sure to pick up an audio guide at the information desk.

2. Visit the State Apartments

The State Apartments are some of the most impressive rooms in the palace. They were used for entertaining guests and important dignitaries. The walls are adorned with intricate tapestries, and the ceilings are painted with beautiful frescoes. Some of the highlights include the Great Hall, the King’s Staircase, and the Queen’s State Bedchamber.

3. Experience Tudor Life in the Kitchens

The Kitchens at Hampton Court Palace are a great way to experience what Tudor life was like for the cooks and servants. The kitchens are located in the Tudor palace and are open to visitors. You can see the huge fireplaces, the spit-roasting that was used to cook meat, and even try on some Tudor clothes.

4. Explore the Gardens

The gardens at Hampton Court Palace are some of the most beautiful in London. They cover 60 acres and feature gorgeous flower displays, fountains, and even a maze. The gardens are open all year round, but they’re especially stunning in the summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.

5. Attend a Event

Throughout the year, there are many events held at Hampton Court Palace. From food festivals to historical reenactments, there’s always something going on. Check the palace’s website to see what events are happening during your visit.

6. See the Crown Jewels

Hampton Court Palace is home to a collection of crown jewels that belonged to King Henry VIII. The jewels are on display in the Royal Pew and include the famous coronation crown that was used during King George VI’s coronation.

7. Visit the Chapel Royal

The Chapel Royal at Hampton Court Palace is one of the most beautiful chapels in England. It dates back to the 16th century and features stunning stained glass windows and ornate woodcarvings. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to attend a service while you’re there.

8. Take a River Cruise

Finally, if you have some extra time, why not take a river cruise along the Thames? You can catch a boat from the palace’s private jetty and enjoy a leisurely cruise along the river. It’s a great way to see some of the other sights along the river, including the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament.

Book Your Tour Now

Hampton Court Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or gardens. With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time. By taking a historical tour, visiting the State Apartments, experiencing Tudor life in the kitchens, exploring the gardens, attending an event, seeing the crown jewels, visiting the Chapel Royal, and taking a river cruise, you’ll be sure to have a memorable time at this iconic London landmark.