How to Plan Your Private Hampton Court Palace Tour and High Tea

Are you planning a trip to Hampton Court and looking for a unique and special experience? Look no further than the Private Hampton Court Palace Tour and High Tea. This tour is a fantastic way to see one of England’s most beautiful and historic buildings with a personalized and exclusive touch. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Hampton Court Palace Tour and High Tea.

Step 1: Booking the Tour

Book the tour by visiting the booking page and selecting the Private Hampton Court Palace Tour and High Tea option. Note that this tour is only available for private groups of up to eight people, so plan accordingly. Once you have selected your preferred date and time, make your payment, and you will receive a confirmation email with all the details of your booking.

Step 2: Preparing for the Tour

Before the day of the tour, ensure you have planned your transport to Hampton Court as the tour meets at Hampton Court railway station. You can catch a train from Waterloo Train Station with two trains leaving every hour. The train journey usually takes about 30 minutes. The tour provider usually recommends arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth start to the tour.

Step 3: The Tour

The tour begins at the meeting point of Hampton Court Train Station. You will be greeted by a knowledgeable tour guide who will give you an overview of the day ahead, as well as answering any questions or concerns you may have. Following this, a private transportation vehicle will be waiting to take you to your first destination.

The tour will take you around the impressive Hampton Court Palace, home to many Kings and Queens stretching back in history to Henry VIII. Your guide will offer a more intimate glimpse into the area walking through the gardens, giving detailed insights, and regaling you with stories that bring the royal residence to life.

During the tour, you can expect to see the Palace’s most significant highlights, such as the Tudor Kitchens, the Great Hall, the Chapel, and the exquisite gardens.

After a comprehensive tour of the Palace, it’s time to enjoy your high tea at one of Hampton Court’s traditional tearooms. Here you can indulge in delicious freshly made scones with clotted cream and jam, a variety of finger sandwiches, and various classic teas. Note that this is optional, but it’s definitely worth adding to your tour to complete a perfect experience.

Step 4: End of the Tour

The tour will conclude at the tearoom, and after which, you can enjoy another stroll in the stunning gardens or take your own time to explore the Palace once again before departing.

What’s included in the Tour?

When you book the Private Hampton Court Palace Tour and High Tea, you’ll enjoy the following inclusions:

• A local and knowledgeable tour guide
• Private transportation to and from Hampton Court Palace
• Entrance tickets to the Palace and Garden
• High Tea at one of the traditional tearooms in Hampton Court
• Audio guide
• Bottled water
• Pick-up and Drop-off

In Conclusion

Overall, the Private Hampton Court Palace Tour and High Tea are an excellent option for those looking for a more personalized, exclusive experience. With its knowledgeable guide, beautiful gardens, and picturesque Palace, it’s guaranteed to be a memorable trip. To book your own private tour, head over to the booking page and start planning your trip today!

An Insider’s Guide to the Picturesque Town of Kingston Upon Thames

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path alternative to London, Kingston Upon Thames is the perfect destination. This town offers a mix of old-world charm and modern-day quirks just waiting to be explored. Here’s an insider’s guide to this picturesque town:

Local Attractions: Explore Kingston’s Hidden Gems

Though Kingston Upon Thames is not as well-known as some of the larger London boroughs, it boasts an intriguing mix of local treasures that are worth discovering. For instance, head to the historic Market Place to see the Ancient Market Cross, or explore the All Saints Church, where the legendary Arthurian Round Table has been kept. Another hidden gem is the Coke Memorial Clock, a stunning example of an Art Deco monument dedicated to the first Earl of Leicester.

Dining Spots: Indulge in Local Cuisine

Kingston has a wide variety of restaurants offering global cuisine, but to experience the authentic flavor of the town, you must try some of its local delicacies. Visit The Ram in Kingston to enjoy classic British pub fare or sample the award-winning fish and chips from the popular Sea Salt. Also, do not miss the farmers’ market on Saturdays where you can shop for fresh produce or indulge in some artisanal cheese.

Cultural Experiences: Learn About Kingston’s Rich Heritage

Kingston Upon Thames has an array of cultural events and traditions unique to the town. The annual Kingston Regatta is celebrated with boat races on the Thames river, and the Kingston Carnival is the perfect opportunity to experience the town’s diverse and inclusive culture. You can also discover Kingston’s art scene by visiting the recently renovated Stanley Picker Gallery, which exhibits contemporary art from local and international artists.

Local History: Step Back in Time

Kingston has a wealth of fascinating stories that will take you on a trip through time. The Coronation Stone, situated in the Ancient Market Place, is believed to have been the site where several Anglo-Saxon kings were crowned. Visit the Kingston Museum to learn more about Saxon history or explore the Kingston Heritage Trail to walk through the town’s past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Escape the Crowds

For a unique experience, visit Kingston’s Canbury Gardens, a leafy park that winds along the banks of the Thames river. You can enjoy a game of tennis or watch the boats go by. If you are feeling adventurous, visit Surbiton Farmers’ Market, bike the Thames Bike Path, or take a scenic walk along the Hogsmill River.

In conclusion, Kingston Upon Thames is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re interested in culture, cuisine, or history, this charming town has something for everyone.