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Take a Peek Inside Kensington Palace with This Virtual Tour

We’d do anything to receive a guided tour of Kensington Palace by none other than Prince William and Kate Middleton themselves. But due to multiple factors—like the coronavirus pandemic and the fact that they have way better things to do —we’re not holding our breath.

So, we rounded up a list of photos that offer a rare glimpse inside the palace’s walls. From The King’s Staircase to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s royal residence (aka Apartment 1A ), keep scrolling for a virtual tour of Kensington Palace.

7 Details About Prince William & Kate Middleton’s Wedding You Probably Never Knew

1. The Location

Kensington Palace resides in Kensington Gardens, which is located in London’s Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The royal residence has been in the family since the 17th century. It was originally purchased by King William III and Queen Mary II, who transformed the mansion into what it is today.

While the State Rooms are currently open to the public (yes, you read that right), other areas on the grounds (ahem, like Apartment 1A) are invite-only.

2. The King's Staircase

One of the public exhibits includes The King’s Staircase, which features striking artwork by famed British designer William Kent. The painting is a recreation of George I’s court, featuring people decked out in lavish clothing and red uniforms. According to reports , the patriarch is painted on the ceiling alongside his mistress. (#Scandalous)

3. The King's Gallery

The King’s Gallery, which is another tourist hot spot, is the largest state apartment at Kensington Palace. It looks almost identical as it did back in 1725, featuring vibrant red walls, carved ceilings and intricate crown molding . The new door cases were designed by Kent (natch).

4. Princess Diana's 'white Garden'

In 2017, Kensington Palace planted a special landscape in honor of Princess Diana . The White Garden features a variety of white flowers that pay tribute to the late royal , along with a small pond that’s surrounded by plotted plants.

5. Apartment 1a

Located on the grounds of Kensington Palace, Apartment 1A is famous for housing the Cambridge family: Prince William, Middleton, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. This particular room features high ceilings, gold accents and ornately framed portraits. The large windows are outlined by heavy drapes, creating an element of privacy.

6. Drawing Room Of Apartment 1a

According to Hello! , the drawing room is “a stone’s throw” from the couple’s private quarters in Apartment 1A. *Makes mental note* In addition to framed portraits (yes, there’s more), it’s filled with intricate furniture, a loaded bookshelf and fresh flowers for ambiance.

Love Prince William & Kate Middleton? Listen to ‘Royally Obsessed,’ the Podcast for People Who Love the Royal Family

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Take a Peek Inside Kensington Palace with This Virtual Tour

We’d do anything to receive a guided tour of Kensington Palace by none other than Prince William and Kate Middleton themselves. But due to multiple factors—like the coronavirus pandemic and the fact that they have way better things to do —we’re not holding our breath.

So, we rounded up a list of photos that offer a rare glimpse inside the palace’s walls. From The King’s Staircase to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s royal residence (aka Apartment 1A ), keep scrolling for a virtual tour of Kensington Palace.

RELATED: 7 Details About Prince William & Kate Middleton’s Wedding You Probably Never Knew

1. The location

Kensington Palace resides in Kensington Gardens, which is located in London’s Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The royal residence has been in the family since the 17th century. It was originally purchased by King William III and Queen Mary II, who transformed the mansion into what it is today.

While the State Rooms are currently open to the public (yes, you read that right), other areas on the grounds (ahem, like Apartment 1A) are invite-only.

2. The King's Staircase

One of the public exhibits includes The King’s Staircase, which features striking artwork by famed British designer William Kent. The painting is a recreation of George I’s court, featuring people decked out in lavish clothing and red uniforms. According to reports , the patriarch is painted on the ceiling alongside his mistress. (#Scandalous)

3. The King's Gallery

The King’s Gallery, which is another tourist hot spot, is the largest state apartment at Kensington Palace. It looks almost identical as it did back in 1725, featuring vibrant red walls, carved ceilings and intricate crown molding . The new door cases were designed by Kent (natch).

4. Princess Diana's 'White Garden'

In 2017, Kensington Palace planted a special landscape in honor of Princess Diana . The White Garden features a variety of white flowers that pay tribute to the late royal , along with a small pond that’s surrounded by plotted plants.

5. Apartment 1A

Located on the grounds of Kensington Palace, Apartment 1A is famous for housing the Cambridge family : Prince William, Middleton, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. This particular room features high ceilings, gold accents and ornately framed portraits. The large windows are outlined by heavy drapes, creating an element of privacy.

6. Drawing Room of Apartment 1A

According to Hello! , the drawing room is “a stone’s throw” from the couple’s private quarters in Apartment 1A. *Makes mental note* In addition to framed portraits (yes, there’s more), it’s filled with intricate furniture, a loaded bookshelf and fresh flowers for ambiance.

RELATED: Love Prince William & Kate Middleton? Listen to ‘Royally Obsessed,’ the Podcast for People Who Love the Royal Family

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Visiting Kensington Palace – Tickets, Tours & FAQs

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 16, 2024

• Everything you need to know to plan and book your visit to Kensington Palace

Visiting Kensington Palace – Tickets & Tours

Kensington palace facts and figures, kensington gardens, when is the best time to visit kensington palace, what to see at kensington palace, what other uk attractions are located near kensington palace, tips for planning your visit to kensington palace, visit these other london attractions and landmarks – tickets, tours & faqs.

Nearest Tube station – High Street Kensington (Circle and District lines) or Queensway (Central line)

How long to set aside for your visit?

It will take about two hours or more to explore the palace and its glorious gardens.

Tickets 

• Kensington Palace ticket

Good to know – Kensington Palace entry is included with The London Pass and the Go City  London Explorer Pass  

Combi tours 

Do note that some tours may not include entry to Kensington Palace, but only the gardens

• Kensington Palace gardens tour with Royal afternoon tea
• Three London Palaces walking tour plus Royal high tea

• Westminster walking tour with visit to Kensington Palace
• Evening London bike tour including Kensington Palace
• Private London walking tour with Kensington Palace

Visiting Kensington Palace

• Princess Diana lived at Kensington Palace. Princes William and Harry also spent some of their early years here. After their mother’s sudden death in 1997, the grounds outside the grand building were carpeted in floral tributes from members of the public. 
• Queen Victoria grew up at Kensington Palace. She also first met Prince Albert there. The V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum in nearby South Kensington is named after the lovestruck Royal couple. Victoria lived there until she became Queen. 
• The so-called Kensington System was a stringent and detailed set of rules laid out by Victoria, Duchess of Kent and the mother of Queen Victoria. The system was meant to increase the young royal’s dependency on her mother, but in fact made her more strong-willed and independent than ever. 
• The late Princess Margaret, the sister of Queen Elizabeth II and the Countess of Snowdon, was one of the true socialites of Kensington Palace. She held lots of parties there during the 1960s, which were attended by the likes of the Beatles, actor Peter Sellers, ballet dancers Margot Fonteyn and ​​Rudolph Nureyev, actresses Britt Ekland and Elizabeth Taylor and even comedian Spike Milligan.
• King William III first bought Kensington Palace for health reasons. His fragile disposition reacted badly to the fog, dampness and smoke of central London, so he bought the building, which was then located in a village outside the capital. Ironically he died of pneumonia at the palace. It was formerly known simply as Nottingham House. 
• A book of drawings by Leonardo da Vinci was discovered at the palace in 1770. This was over 180 years after the Mona Lisa artist died. Drawings by Henry VIII’s court painter were also discovered during the 1700s – two centuries later. 
• The palace was used for practical purposes during both World Wars. In World War I, it was used for clerical reasons and the staff concerned had to adhere to rationing. When World War II was going on, Kensington Palace Gardens were used for military defence, but were also hit by a bomb which damaged parts of the palace, including the State Apartments. 
• Did you know that one of the Peter Pan books was set in Kensington Gardens? Author J. M. Barrie penned Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens as he lived locally. Various parts of the gardens feature in the fictional tale about the boy who never wanted to grow up. The Peter Pan statue in the gardens dates from 1912, only a few years after the book’s publication. 
• Despite her unhappy childhood spent at the palace, Queen Victoria saved the iconic palace during the final years of her life. Due to neglect, there was talk of the palace being razed to the ground in around 1897, but the Queen managed to turn its fortunes around. By 1899, the restored State Rooms at the palace were open to the public. 
• You can hire parts of the palace for a Royal (style) wedding or another event. Spaces such as the King’s Drawing Room, the Cupola, the Queen’s Gallery, the Privy Chamber and the King’s Gallery can be rented out.  

Kensington Palace Opening Times

Kensington Palace is open between Wednesday and Sunday, apart from planned closures such as exhibition preparation, restoration work or Royal events like the coronation of King Charles III. 

The palace opens between 10 am and 6 pm, with the last entry an hour earlier. It’s closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays. 

The gardens are open to the public from 6 am daily. Closing times vary throughout the year. They range between 4.15 pm during most of December to 9.45 pm between early June and mid-July. 

The times reflect the hours of darkness in London. This is why they are seasonal. The UK’s shortest day is in mid to late December, and the longest in mid to late June. Entry to the gardens alone is free. 

Check opening times for the dates of your visit here. 

• Kensington Palace is open from Wednesday to Sunday and is closed on Monday and Tuesday. 
• If you can, visit on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday rather than on Saturday or Sunday. This is because weekends are busier. 
• The summer season is also a busy time for the palace. The UK school holidays run from mid-July to the start of September, so you can expect the palace to be busy during this period.
• For a more peaceful experience, get there before the palace opens for the day. Alternatively, visit in the afternoon, around two hours before closing time. 
• If you want to visit Kensington Palace Gardens only, or separately, you can do this between 6 am and nightfall. Closing times for the gardens vary according to the season and sunset times, though they are always open to pedestrians at 6 am. Entry to the gardens is free. 

There is plenty to see at Kensington Palace, plus you also have the gardens to explore. Inside, the King’s State Apartments, the Queen’s State Apartments, the King’s Staircase, the Jewel Room and the King’s Gallery are among the main attractions. 

Kensington Palace also hosts a regular programme of events. At the time of writing, for example, events included a Crown to Couture exhibition about historic and contemporary costumes. Victoria: A Royal Childhood also told the tale of the famous Queen’s formative years. 

Kensington Gardens is also a major attraction in its own right. Some of the highlights of this outside space include the Sunken Garden, the wildflower meadow in spring and summer, the shady Cradle Walk (aka Nanny Walk) and the Formal Gardens. 

• The Serpentine Galleries (in Kensington Gardens)
• The V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum
• The Natural History Museum
• The Science Museum
• The Design Museum
• The Leighton House Museum
• The Royal Albert Hall
• Kensington High Street
• The Churchill Arms 
• Holland Park
• Knightsbridge – Harrods!
• Notting Hill

• If you can, buy tickets for Kensington Palace in advance. This means you can avoid queueing up to get in. It’s often busy here, especially in summer and at weekends. 
• The palace is closed for two days each week, on Mondays and Tuesdays. Part or all of it can also close for restoration work, the setting up of exhibitions and Royal events. 
• Though you’ll have to pay to tour the palace, entry to the gardens is free. They open daily at 6 am and close at around sunset. You can see the palace from the outside here. 
• Book an afternoon tea at the palace if you have time. It’s a splendid setting for such a quintessential British tradition. You can book this alongside your ticket via the links given at the top of this guide. 
• You can experience afternoon tea at the Kensington Palace Pavilion but if you prefer you can also find plenty of places to pick up food and drinks or eat at on Kensington High Street. 
• Do allow time for the gardens. They’re one of the highlights of the palace experience. They are free to enter, though, so returning on another day may be an option you could consider. 
• If you’re a fan of the late Princess Diana – the first wife of King Charles III – then don’t miss the Sunken Garden. This is said to have been one of her favourite spots of all. 
• It’s worth thinking about which London museums you want to visit before planning your day at the palace. Several prominent museums – including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the V&A are also in the Kensington area. This can save on travel time and costs. Entry is free to all three, though it’s worth checking whether online booking is required.
• Take the tube to the palace. High Street Kensington is a good one to go for, as it’s on both the Circle and District lines. You can also find lots of shops, cafes and so on right by the station. If you have access to the Central line, though, Queensway could be more convenient. 
• Try to plan your visit for a sunny day, if possible. This is tricky in a country with an often-wet climate, but exploring Kensington Gardens is far more pleasant when the sun is shining!
• The Tower of London
• Westminster Abbey
• The London Eye
• Windsor Castle
• Hampton Court Palace
• St Paul’s Cathedral

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Kensington Palace Tour

Visit Kensington Palace, the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

A Kensington Palace Tour is unmissable because…

Kensington Palace has been a favourite royal residence since the late 17th century when a small, suburban villa was extended and transformed by master architect Sir Christopher Wren. Queen Victoria grew up here, first met with her great love Prince Albert and learnt she had become Queen. More recently it was home to the late Diana, Princess of Wales and it is where her sons Prince William and Prince Harry spent much of their childhood. It is now the London base for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and their three young children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

The must-sees during a Kensington Palace Tour

• The Kings State Apartments , each grander than the last, where the fortunate might just meet with the monarch.
• The Kings Staircase – intriguing characters from 18th-century court life survey us from the walls!
• The Queens State Apartments – cosy, private rooms used for relaxation away from the activity of the court.
• Diana: Designing for a Princess – a special exhibition on the evolution of her style and including a changing outfit from her wardrobe.
• Two new exhibitions – Victoria: Woman and Crown and Victoria: A Royal Childhood to celebrate 200 years since her birth here at the palace (both open from 24 May 2019).
• The Sunken Garden with its beautiful flower displays where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced their engagement.

Book a Blue Badge Tourist Guide for a Kensington Palace Tour because…

Whilst none of the current private royal apartments can be visited, the great historical rooms of the palace are open to the public and a Blue Badge Tourist Guide can enhance your experience with:

• Stories about the fascinating people of the past who have lived in the palace.
• Tales of royal life from the first residents William and Mary in 1689 to William and Catherine today.
• A tour tailored to the specific interests and needs of your group.

A Kensington Palace tour can be taken on its own or combined with the leafy delights of nearby Hyde Park or perhaps the attractive boutiques of Notting Hill instead. Your Blue Badge Tourist Guide can advise on suitable options to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Please bear in mind that these are not public tours, but private tours conducted by specialist Blue Badge Tourist Guides who will charge a separate fee, details of which can be found on our fees page.

Let us 'Match' you with one of our Blue Badge Tourist Guides who are:

• Friendly, professional and used to dealing with groups of all ages and sizes
• Holders of the prestigious Blue Badge (the highest Tourist Guiding qualification in the UK)
• Able to use special entrances at certain well known attractions to avoid waiting in long lines
• Able to offer tours in over 30 different languages

Simply input your tour request details in the form below. When you have finished, hit the Green ‘Submit to Match’ button. Your request will be instantly emailed to three highly qualified and enthusiastic London Blue Badge Tourist Guides, matching your criteria. They will then email you confirming availability, pricing and suggestions for the tour itself. So let one of our 500+ Blue Badge Tourist Guides make your stay in London a special one.

Short notice request! We will do our best to accommodate your needs, but generally try to give at least two days notice.

Date of tour: Flexible dates Coming to London for a whole week? Let the guide know that the date is flexible, so they can suggest an upcoming event or a less crowded time for the tour. (+/- 3 days)

Language: Albanian Bulgarian Chinese (Cantonese) Chinese (Mandarin) Croatian Czech Danish Dutch/Flemish English Finnish French German Greek Hebrew Hindi Hungarian Italian Japanese Korean Lithuanian Polish Portuguese Romanian Russian Slovak Spanish Swedish Swiss-German Taiwanese Turkish Welsh

Duration: Morning Half day tour up to 4 hours maximum, usually expected to finish by 13:00 Afternoon Half day tour up to 4 hours maximum, usually expected to start by 13:30 All Day Full days are up to 9 hours, usually finishing no later than 18:00 Evening Only Half day tour up to 4 hours maximum, usually expected to start no earlier than 18:00

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Visiting Kensington Palace, London – Prices, Tours And More

From the grandeur of the King’s State Rooms, to learning all about Queen Victoria’s time on the throne, and seeing Princess Diana’s stunning dresses, it’s time to visit Kensington Palace in London.

It’s funny, when you live somewhere you often don’t get around to ticking off the big tourist attractions. I was 28 when I finally visited the Tower Of London and I’ve still not toured Buckingham Palace or climbed up to the top of Tower Bridge.

Last month I finally had the opportunity to visit Kensington Palace – the home of so many present day royals, and of course plenty of kings and queens from days gone by. It’s where William and Mary held huge parties, the place where Queen Victoria was born, and the place where Charles and Diana brought up their children, William and Harry.

I booked my Kensington Palace tickets in advance with GetYourGuide (just £16 per person) and spent a few hours exploring both the palace and the gardens. Sadly your ticket won’t gain you entry to William or Harry’s pads (!) but it’s fascinating to see inside the staterooms. In fact, the week I visited was the week of the royal wedding, but Nottingham Cottage (Harry and Meghan’s home) was well out of view!

With over 300 years of royal history to digest, I decided to start my visit at the newest addition – the exhibition of Princess Diana’s dresses. Diana: Her Fashion Story showcases some of her most famous outfits. I really enjoyed reading about the occasions she wore each outfit for and seeing photos of her looking so effortlessly glamorous. She was such a style icon. There was so much detail on the gowns, from beautiful beading to elaborate sequins, and of course many of the outfits showcased fashion styles that were long forgotten!

*Please note, the exhibitions at Kensington Palace change throughout the year! When I visited this one was on, but there may be something different when you visit!*

Some of the original sketches were on the wall, and there were quotes around the exhibition recounting people’s memories of Diana.

I particularly loved the Zandra Rhodes dress which she wore on a trip to Japan. The colour? That was picked to complement the Japanese cherry blossom. Isn’t it pretty? There really was something so special about seeing her dresses in her former home… in fact it gave me chills just thinking about it!

Climbing The King’s Grand Staircase was quite a moment! The walls and ceiling are completely covered in detailed paintings and panelling. It was incredible to think of the work involved.

Upstairs are the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, which have a mix of different styles of rooms – all very grand! The Cupola Room was my favourite, with an 18 th century musical clock in the centre and impressive panelling adorning the walls. George I threw many celebrations in that room, and you could just imagine the space being filled with music and dancing.

It was also fun to see some historic board games. Who knew that the royals from history enjoyed a board game or two? The rules for ‘Games Of Court’ were very amusing, including ‘You negotiate a treaty with Spain. Move forward,’ and ‘John Gay writes a poem about you. Move forward.’

Meanwhile, the outfits were pretty intriguing too. The court dresses (mantuas) of the time featured humorously wide skirts, but they were flat at the front and back. Rather impractical, they were a display of wealth and status. Yep, the bigger and more elaborately-decorated your skirt, the richer you were.

The Victoria Revealed exhibition charted Queen Victoria’s life, from birth, to historic moments including becoming Queen, celebrating her jubilees and finally her death. I didn’t know a huge amount about Victoria, but I found it fascinating walking up the stairs to the Red Saloon where she held her first privy council as queen at the age of 18. I’m double her age and can only imagine how daunting that must have been, especially when the news of her father’s death was so fresh.

She didn’t live in Kensington Palace once she was Queen, choosing instead to move to Buckingham Palace, but the exhibition is inspired by her own journals and has plenty of personal items on display. There’s a chance to really understand all the different sides to her too – after all she was more than Queen, she was also a mother (to 9 children!) and devoted wife to Albert too.

She and Albert loved music, art, and literature and there are plenty of items to peruse in the exhibition. Some of her crowns, broaches and tiaras are also on show, one of which was designed by Albert. It really was a wonderful romance by the sounds of it! When he died at the age of 41, Queen Victoria was inconsolable and spent the rest of her reign wearing black, and rarely appearing in public.

After exploring the palace, it was time to venture out to Kensington Palace Gardens. You can walk around the edge of the beautiful Sunken Gardens, along a tree-covered path. This was one of Diana’s favourite places, and she often spent mornings chatting to the gardeners. I could see why she loved it so much.

The gardens were a lovely place to round off my tour of Kensington Palace… oh no wait, there’s one last place to visit. The gift shop! I couldn’t help but look. They had everything from royal wedding tea, to HRH tea towels and jewellery fit for a queen (well one on a budget!)

I hope you enjoy visiting Kensington Palace! You can find out more about visiting and book your tickets here .

If you’re looking for more fun activities in London, don’t miss my guides to quirky things to do in London , unusual hotels in London and some of my favourite unique restaurants in London !

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Kensington Palace

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About The Tour

Explore this wonderful palace which has been a Royal residence for over 300 years. Kensington is the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. It was the home of the late Princess Diana and today the home of William and Kate, their children and other Royals!

Visit the King's State Apartments, including the magnificent staircase where the whole court of Georgian London would have climbed to visit the King and the Presence Chamber where King George II received ministers and ambassadors. View the favourite entertaining space of his Queen Caroline too.

Continue to the Queen’s State Apartments and see the bed that has a fascinating history as it is supposedly where the catholic son of King James II was born - or possibly swapped for an imposter!

You can also view a stunning evening gown created for Princess Diana and see her handwritten comments alongside the sketch designs.

See the fine and decorative art on display, and also wander through the palace's charming gardens including a wonderful sunken garden and formal gardens.

You can also include afternoon tea in the splendid Orangery…please ask our tour planning team for more details. A perfect tour for the lovers of all things Royal!

We have tour guides for Kensington Palace for all languages.

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Royal london, kensington palace & princess diana's wedding dress, our tour guide, richard, was fabulous ... a wealth of knowledge who presented historical information with so much fun and animation that my kids commented he would make a great history teacher, why choose us.

Because you insist on the longest-established and most experienced service available in Britain. Founded in 1958, British Tours is still under the same management. About Us

Who is your Guide?

Our guides are personable educated men and women, chosen for their knowledge, special interests, backgrounds and personality. They will collect you by car from any central London location and guide you inside places of historic importance

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 48 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

What to Do in Kensington

This post is a list of the top things to do and see in the Kensington area of London.

The list includes shopping, a park, a pub, a palace, a pet cemetery, a Peter Pan statue, as well as museums, a garden, and a music hall.

Let's get to it!

Shop at Harrods

Perhaps the most famous department store in the world, Harrods was founded in 1834 and the store has been an international shopping destination for decades.

Spanning a 5 acre site and holding over one million square feet of selling space, Harrods is easily the biggest department store in Europe - with over 330 different departments inside.

Whether you actually make a purchase or not, it is worth exploring floor after floor of amazing items, or even just a nip into the outstanding food halls.

For more information on Harrods, check out our blog post HERE .

Visit the Albert Memorial

Commissioned by Queen VictoPrince Albert, Queen Victoria’s beloved husband of 21 years died unexpectedly in 1861 at the age of 42.

Victoria, who never recovered from the loss, commissioned a memorial dedicated to her husband to be constructed in Kensington Gardens.

The Albert Memorial was opened in July 1872.

The memorial consists of an ornate canopy, sheltering a statue of the Prince, covered in real gold leaf (!), who is looking south, to the Royal Albert Hall and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

The entire structure is incredibly ornate with friezes, sculptures and references to allegorical tales.

For more information on the Albert Memorial, check our blog post HERE .

Meet Peter Pan

A beloved literary character the world over, Peter Pan is the creation of the author J. M. Barrie.

Sculpted by Sir George Frampton in 1912, the Peter Pan statue was commissioned by J. M. Barrie himself.

Barrie had, at one time, lived on nearby Bayswater Road and he stated that his stories were partly inspired by Kensington Gardens.

The placement of the statue is precise as it rests in the exact spot Peter lands in Barrie’s 1902 book The Little White Bird .

A whimsical statue and a definite must-visit for Peter Pan fans!

See an Animal Cemetery

Hidden away in the northwest corner of Hyde Park, the Pet Cemetery came into creation in the 19 th -century when local residents began burying their deceased pets in a plot here.

Eventually, a dog owned by the wife of the Duke of Cambridge, named Prince, was buried here in 1882, setting a huge precedent to make this the final resting place for many pets.

Although now no longer interring pets here, the cemetery is still a popular curiosity for visitors to take a peek at.

Visit Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace

Once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens are now part of the Royal Parks of London and are open to the public.

Sitting adjacent to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens is one of the most beautiful parks in the city.

Containing a palace, an art gallery, numerous statues, picturesque fountains, and two bodies of water, Kensington Gardens are a great place to explore.

Located within Kensington Gardens is Kensington Palace, largely designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built during the reign of King WIlliam III and his wife Queen Mary II in the 1680’s.

Throughout the years, many royals have both arrived and departed this earth right here at Kensington Palace.

King William III, Queen Mary II and her sister Queen Anne all died in the Palace, and our current Queens’ grandmother was born here in 1867.

Most famously of all, it was at Kensington Palace where Queen Victoria came into the world in 1819 and where she lived until her accession to the throne in 1837.

In more recent times, it also served as the home of the Queens’ sister, Princess Margaret, and perhaps most famously, the Queens’ former daughter-in-law, Princess Diana, as well as the home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their three children.

For more information on Kensington Gardens, check out our post, with all the information you need, as well as a self guided tour, HERE.

For more information on Kensington Palace, including tips on getting cheap tickets, check out our blog post HERE .

Or, tour Kensington Gardens virtually with Sinead HERE .

Enjoy Free Museums

London is home to many world-famous museums, and three of the biggest and best are here in Kensington The Victoria & Albert, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. Best of all, they are all FREE!

The V&A Museum was established in 1852 and is the world’s largest museum of applied arts, decorative arts and design as well as owning the world’s largest collection of post-classical sculpture.

The permanent collection contains over 2.27 million objects displayed throughout 145 galleries.

The Natural History Museum was established in 1881 and now holds over 80 million items within its five main collections, which include botany, entomology, mineralogy, palaeontology and zoology.

The Science Museum was established in 1857and focuses on subjects such as space, the modern world, medicine, and mathematics (just to name a few). With hands-on exhibits and a continually changing array of activities and events, this is a good place to bring the kids!

For more free museums in London, check out our blog post HERE .

Listen to a Concert at the Royal College of Music

An established organisation, the Royal College of Music provides training in all levels and all aspects of Western classical music.

With so many talented people at a single location, it makes sense that the College would set concerts throughout the year.

But what might come as a surprise is that many of these concerts are FREE to attend!

Take a Tour with Free Tours By Foot

One of the best ways to explore Kensington, is by going on a tour! And we have a few different options for you...

1 - Sign up to our Royal Kensington Tour

Our fabulous Royal Kensington Tour begins in South Kensington and will take you past world-famous Museums, the Royal Albert Hall, and the Albert Memorial.

This is all followed by a stroll through the Gardens where you’ll take in the Serpentine, Kensington Palace, and the Diana Memorial Fountain.

All this while being led by one of our knowledgeable and friendly guides! 

Also note that this tour is designed to be particularly kid friendly! Find out more and book HERE .

2 - Take a Virtual Tour through Kensington Gardens

If you don't have plans to visit London any time soon, or aren't sure if you're up for the walk, let Sinead guide you!

Take a stroll through the stunning Kensington Gardens from the comfort of your own home HERE .

3 - Take a Self-Guided Tour

If you want to keep to your own schedule, consider taking our Self-Guided Tour of Kensington Gardens. We have it all laid out for you HERE .

This tour starts at Lancaster Gate Station and finishes at Kensington High Street Station, but you choose when and how long it takes you to make the journey!

See the Royal Albert Hall

Named after the ill-fated Prince Albert, the Albert Hall is a beautiful concert hall just a stone’s throw from Kensington Gardens.

Opened by Queen Victoria in 1871, the building quickly became one of the most high-profile musical venues in the country - and later, the world - hosting more than 350 events each year.

It’s possible to tour the Hall with a paid-for-guided tour but it’s completely free to walk the entirety of the outside and admire the beautiful construction, carvings and decorations that surround it.

For more information on the Albert Memorial and visiting the Royal Albert Hall, including seeing a show, check out our blog posts HERE and HERE .

Enjoy the Serpentine

A 40-acre recreational lake, The Serpentine was created in 1730 at the behest of Queen Caroline.

Named after its snakelike shape, the Serpentine has two parts: the Serpentine, which is the part that is in Hyde Park, and The Long Water, which lies within the boundaries of Kensington Gardens.

In fact the Serpentine Bridge, spanning this body of water marks the official division between the Park and the Gardens.

The Serpentine was created to not only be beautiful, but also provide a location for leisure activities such as boating, and later, swimming.

In fact, in the 2012 London Olympics it was the venue for the men and women’s triathlon and marathon swimming events!

Even if you’re not an Olympic athlete, you can still swim in the Serpentine at the Serpentine Lido, a designated and marked area of the water that is open to the public from May to early September.

Or, you can rent a rowboat or pedalo to take out onto the water from April to October.

Find out more about the Serpentine Lido HERE and more about hiring a boat or pedalo HERE .

Visit The Churchill Arms

The Churchill Arms is a proper west London boozer.

Cozy and dark with roaring fires in the winter, surrounded by beautiful plants with welcoming open doors in the summer, the Churchill Arms is just far enough off the main roads to make it a local-secret.

The best of all is that hidden in the back of the pub is one of the best (kept secret) Thai restaurants in London! Shh…

+++Check out our pay-what-you-like walking tours of London !+++

++Also check out our blog on 10 Top Things to Do in Westminster ++

+ Check out our Where to Stay in London +

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Discover South Kensington is an initiative of the Exhibition Road Cultural Group

Take a Royal Tour

Explore our royal links from King George's palace, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's vision to the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.

Albert Memorial

Located in Kensington Gardens, it is one of London's most ornate ornaments. Unveiled in 1872, The Albert Memorial commemorates the death of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's husband, who died of typhoid fever at the age of 42. Public tours are available.

Victoria: A Royal Childhood

Discover the story of Princess Victoria, the young girl destined to be queen, in the rooms where she was born and raised at Kensington Palace. Explore how an indulged young princess blossomed into the independent and iconic monarch we remember.

The Italian Gardens

The Italian Gardens is a 150-year-old ornamental water garden located on the north side of Kensington Gardens near Lancaster Gate. It is believed to have been created as a gift from Prince Albert to his beloved Queen Victoria.

Discovering Britain: Albertopolis Walk

Take a self-guided tour and explore how London’s quarter for the arts and sciences was created. Discover more about it's great institutions and magnificent buildings.

V&A jewellery collection

One of the finest collections of jewelry in the world - over 3,500 jewels, including pendants given by Queen Elizabeth I.

Princess Diana Memorial fountain

A unique fountain memorial to Princess Diana designed to reflect her spirit of life and love of children.

Princess Diana Memorial walk

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk takes visitors through four of the most beautiful parks in the world, including Hyde Park and Kensington Palace.

Royal Albert Hall Tours

Take a peek inside London's most iconic music venue. Did you know that the Royal Albert Hall once hosted a séance; flooded the auditorium with 56,000 litres of water for an opera concert; and that criminals, as well as musicians and politicians, have graced the Hall’s stage?

Queen Carolines Temple

Explore Queen Caroline's Temple which is a classical style summer house overlooking the Long Water, east of Lancaster Walk, Hyde Park.

Princess Diana Memorial Playground

Explore and have a great adventure in the playground with a huge wooden pirate ship which is the centrepiece of the Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground.

The Sunken Garden

The beautiful Sunken Garden was planted in 1908, transforming part of the gardens previously occupied by potting sheds into a tranquil ornamental garden. Today, the garden continues the tradition of rotational flower displays in the spring and summer.

Untold Lives: A Palace at Work

A new exhibition uncovering the forgotten stories of those who worked at the royal palaces over 300 years ago. They were at the centre of royal life, but little is known about the servants and courtiers who ran royal palaces for centuries.

The V&A Story

From its early beginnings to the foundation stone laid by Queen Victoria in 1899, to today's state-of-the-art galleries, the Museum has constantly evolved in its collecting and public interpretation of art and design. Its collections span 5,000 years of human creativity in virtually every medium, housed in one of the finest groups of Victorian and modern buildings in Britain.

The King's State Apartments

This is the ideal time to explore Kensington Palace, the birthplace of Queen Victoria and home to young royals for over 300 years. Walk in the footsteps of royalty in Victoria's re-imagined childhood rooms and the magnificent King's State Apartments and Queen's State Apartments.

The Queen's State Apartments

William III and Mary II were crowned as joint monarchs in 1689, after they were invited by Parliament to take the throne in the place of Catholic King James II, Mary’s father. They bought Kensington Palace to become their new home, away from the bustle of Whitehall Palace, and transformed the building into a royal home.

The Great Exhibition Virtual Tour

Take a virtual tour of the magnificent Crystal Palace and experience its innovative design and beauty. Constructed in 1851, it defined Prince Albert's ambitions to showcase the best of Victoria's reign.

Visit Kensington Palace

Kensington palace offers a unique glimpse into the lives of past and present members of the british monarchy..

Visitors can explore the opulent state apartments, stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens, and immerse themselves in the rich history showcased in various exhibitions. Kensington Palace promises an unforgettable royal experience. Join us as we delve into what makes this palace a must-see destination and provide essential information to plan your visit.

Kensington Palace

Buy tickets now for 2024.

Check tour & ticket availability for Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace, one of London’s most iconic royal residences, offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and opulent lifestyle of British royalty. Located in the heart of Kensington Gardens, the palace has been home to numerous monarchs and royals over the centuries, including Queen Victoria and Princess Diana. In this article, we’ll explore the highlights of visiting Kensington Palace, including its stunning gardens, royal apartments, and fascinating exhibitions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a regal day out, Kensington Palace promises an unforgettable royal experience.

A Glimpse into History

Kensington Palace has a storied past that dates back to the 17th century when it was acquired by King William III and Queen Mary II. Originally known as Nottingham House, the modest mansion was transformed into a royal residence to provide a retreat away from the damp conditions of Whitehall Palace. Over the years, it has been expanded and renovated by various monarchs, each leaving their mark on the architecture and decor. The palace has witnessed countless historical events and has been the birthplace and childhood home of many royals, including Queen Victoria.

The Royal Apartments

One of the main attractions of Kensington Palace is the chance to explore the opulent state apartments. These rooms, adorned with exquisite furnishings, paintings, and artifacts, offer a glimpse into the lives of the royals who once resided here. Some of the highlights include:

• The King’s State Apartments: Step into the grandeur of the King’s State Apartments, which were designed to impress and entertain. The lavishly decorated rooms include the Presence Chamber, the King’s Drawing Room, and the Council Chamber, each filled with stunning artworks and period furnishings.
• The Queen’s State Apartments: These rooms, used by Queen Mary II, are more intimate but equally luxurious. Highlights include the Queen’s Gallery, the Queen’s Closet, and the Queen’s Bedroom, each offering insights into the daily life of a queen.

The Gardens

Kensington Palace is set within Kensington Gardens, one of London’s eight Royal Parks. The beautifully landscaped gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city and are a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Key features of the gardens include:

The Sunken Garden

This stunning garden, designed in 1908, features ornamental flower beds, a tranquil pond, and vibrant seasonal plantings. It was a favorite spot of Princess Diana and was redesigned in her memory as the White Garden in 2017.

The Cradle Walk

This secluded, arched walkway is lined with fragrant flowers and offers a peaceful retreat within the gardens.

The Formal Gardens

These gardens, with their manicured lawns and symmetrical flower beds, reflect the traditional elegance of the palace grounds.

Westminster Abbey

Opened in 1962, the gallery hosts rotating exhibitions that showcase masterpieces from the extensive royal art...

St. Paul's Cathedral

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710, the cathedral is renowned for its majestic dome, stunning...

Visitor Information

• Tickets: It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance online through the official Kensington Palace website. This can help you avoid long queues and ensure entry at your preferred time.
• Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the palace. Expert guides can provide fascinating stories and details that enhance your visit.
• Accessibility: The palace is wheelchair accessible, and assistance is available for visitors with disabilities. There are also accessible restrooms and seating areas throughout the palace and gardens.
• Photography: Photography is allowed in most areas of the palace, but flash photography and tripods are not permitted. Check the specific rules on arrival.
• Respect the Rules: Follow the guidelines provided by your guide, especially regarding photography and restricted areas.

Visiting Kensington Palace offers a captivating journey through centuries of royal history and grandeur. From the opulent state apartments and beautiful gardens to the fascinating exhibitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the life of Queen Victoria, admiring royal fashion, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the gardens, Kensington Palace provides an enriching and memorable experience. Plan your visit today and step into the world of British royalty at this historic and iconic landmark. For more information and to book your tickets, visit the official Kensington Palace website. Enjoy your royal adventure!

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Visiting Buckingham Palace in 2024

The state rooms.

The State Rooms are open everyday in July and August. In September they are open to the public from Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)

11th July - 31st of August

Open Daily: 09.30 - 19.30 - Last admission: 17.15

1st - 29th of September

Open Thursday to Monday: 09.30 - 18.30 - Last admission: 16.15

Visitors Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit buckingham palace, when is buckingham palace open to the public, how can i purchase tickets to visit buckingham palace, what areas of buckingham palace can visitors explore, are guided tours available at buckingham palace, is photography allowed inside buckingham palace, how long does a visit to buckingham palace typically take, are there facilities for visitors with disabilities, is there a café or restaurant on site, can i see the changing of the guard during my visit, what other attractions are nearby, buckingham palace.

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Self-guided Kensington walk

Explore some of the best kensington has to offer independently on foot.

This Kensington short walk crams a lot into a short distance. The distance is around 2 miles and nonstop you could do it in 40 minutes or less. However, many people will be hard put to complete the walk within one long day - there is so much to tempt along the way.

The walk will take in such famous places as the Princess Diana Memorial playground , Kensington Palace , the Albert Hall, The Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum to name a few highlights.

These notes have focus on the logistics, no attempt is made to be a substitute for a good guide book on London.

With a good London street map or map app on your phone you'll have no problem following this walk and be fully equipped to make interesting diversions and adaptations with confidence.

Having a map readily available will help you make interesting diversions and adaptions as you progress.

Kensington north section map   Getting started   Diana playground   Kensington Palace   Round Pond   Diana Fountain   Royal Albert Hall   Kensington south section map   Royal College of Music   Imperial College   Science Museum   Natural History Museum   V & A Museum   London Oratory   Rembrandt Hotel   Harrods  

Northern section of walk Kensington map

Getting started & portobello market option.

We start the walk at Queensway Underground Station on the Central Line. If it's more convenient, Bayswater Station is just 200m away. If you want to pick up something for snacks along the way there are countless places along Queensway itself.

From Queensway station cross the busy Bayswater Road and enter Kensington Gardens by the Black Lion Gate. On a Sunday artists will be displaying their work along the railings here.

Portobello Market option on a Saturday

On a Saturday,  Portobello Market  is in full swing about a 10-min walk from Queensway. It pays to get there early to avoid the worst crowds. Instead of starting at Queensway make for Notting Hill or Ladbroke Grove Underground and just follow the crowds and signs.

Use your street map to walk from the southern end of Portobello Road to Queensway or go back to Notting Hill and walk along the Bayswater Road.

Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground

Just inside the gates on your right is the playground dedicated in memory to Princess Diana whose home at Kensington Palace is very near. The centrepiece is a huge wooden pirate ship and various other activities and playthings for the youngsters. One of the better free playgrounds you will come across on your travels.

There is also a cafe selling sandwiches, drinks etc. and toilets.

From Black Lion Gate / Diana Playground walk straight down the wide path in front of you into the park. For visitors, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens can be termed one park.

Royal Parks - more information

Kensington Palace

After 5-10 minutes you come to the Kensington Palace complex.

Popular on account of its associations with Princess Diana, Kensington was in the 17th and 18th centuries where the monarch held court before royalty moved onto Buckingham Palace.

The Orangery, (open to everyone) is part of Kensington Palace and is one of 'the' places to take tea or perhaps something heavier when you're in London.

Kensington Palace - more info and buy tickets

The Round Pond and Peter Pan

On the east side of Kensington Palace is the imaginatively named Round Pond which you could not have failed to notice as you approached Kensington Palace.

It was here that the playwright J.M.Barrie met Llewellyn Davies whilst walking his dog, LLewellyn being the inspiration for Peter Pan. There is a statue of Peter Pan elsewhere in the park.

Now, make your way away from Kensington Palace in an eastward direction, south of the Round Pound. You will see the Royal Albert Hall on the south side of Kensington Gardens, (the large domed building) that we visit later. We walk parallel to the Albert Hall. There are many paths both official and unofficial that crisscross Kensington Gardens which is open parkland here and there are signposts to the various landmarks within Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park .

Once the Albert hall starts to get behind you over on your right, start to take paths that veer slightly to the left rather than right at any junctions. You will either come to the Serpentine lake or the road that crosses Kensington Gardens from north to south. If you hit the road, if there are no signs to the Princess Diana Fountain just turn left until you come to the bridge across the Serpentine lake.

Once you reach the Serpentine Lake a wide path follows the southern shore line and there will be signs to Princess Diana Fountain

Princess Diana Memorial Fountain & Serpentine Gallery

The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is on the edge of the Serpentine so you cannot miss it. The Princess Diana Memorial opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 6th July 2004.

The design aims to reflect Diana's life, water flows from the highest point in two directions as it cascades, swirls and bubbles before meeting in a calm pool at the bottom.

Just beyond the fountain memorial is the Lido Cafe, a perfect place for refreshments sat outside overlooking the lake.

The building complex just south of the Memorial Fountain and Lido cafe is the Serpentine Arts Gallery. Containing galleries for modern and contemporary art, the gallery showcases work by the finest contemporary artists working across a huge variety of media. In the grounds of the Gallery is a permanent work by artist and poet Ian Hamilton Finlay, dedicated to the Serpentine's former Patron Diana, Princess of Wales

Albert Memorial & Royal Albert Hall

From just south of the Serpentine gallery a main east-west artery used by bicycles a lot is our route. We head back west, again running parallel to the southern perimeter of the park. You soon cross the road and continue the other side. You will see the dome of the Royal Albert Hall just follow paths that take you in the general direction of this landmark.

Opposite the Royal Albert Hall you come to the impressive Albert Memorial standing in Kensington Gardens.

Built as a memorial by Queen Victoria to her husband between 1863 and 1875. Prince Albert was responsible for much of what you will see in the next part of the walk. Prince Albert was enthusiastic about education, progress and industry. The piece of land south of this point was made available and developed under Prince Albert's influence and contains world class museums, a university and the Royal Albert Hall concert hall itself.

During the 2nd World War an anti aircraft gun accidentally shot off the orb and cross at the top of the memorial. Now cross over the road to the Albert Hall.

Opened in 1871, the Royal Albert hall is perhaps the UK's most famous concert hall. It was originally going to be called the Hall of Arts & Sciences but Queen Victoria instead had it named after her husband.

The hall is best known for the annual proms concerts, but has hosted a wide range of performances including the first Sumo tournament held outside Japan.

Concerts tend to be 'establishment' entertainers, opera and such like.

Take a look at what's on before making your way to the back of the hall, then descending the steps to Prince Consort Road. In front of you is the Royal College of Music.

Southern section of walk Kensington map

Royal college of music.

The College teaches all aspects of modern classical music.

Among its famous past pupils are Andrew Lloyd Weber, Gustav Holst, Benjamin Britten and Rick Wakeman. As you can see its the cream that attend here, around 600 students from all around the world.

Imperial College

Turn left at the bottom of the steps, heading eastwards, then right at the T junction into Exhibition Road, then keep on the right hand side of the road. You now pass the Imperial College of Science & Technology, found in 1907 and part of the University of London. One of the top tier of scientific, engineering and medical research and teaching institutions in the world.

Science Museum

Next on your right is the Science Museum, a world class museum with free entry and open 7 days a week. This really is a great museum for people of all ages, museums are usually quite dry for kids, but this is the exception. The basement and workshops are especially good for youngsters.

Floors of exhibits ranging from full size steam locomotives and aircraft to how computers work will keep many absorbed for a whole day.

(See our  London Museums  page for links to all the official websites of the museums. All the museums here at South Kensington have free entry.)

Natural History Museum

Next on your right are the Earth Galleries of the Natural History Museum, once a separate entity called the Geological Museum. Carry on down to the busy Cromwell Road and turn right. The full impact of the Natural History Museum now hits you, from the outside it looks more like a palace than a museum. A Victorian masterpiece, completed in 1881.

Like the Science Museum, entry is free and opens 7 days a week. With more than 70 million specimens , ranging from microscopic slides to mammoth skeletons, the Museum is home to the largest and most important natural history collection in the world.

Now retrace your steps to the busy junction of Exhibition Road and Cromwell Road, walking across Exhibition Road to the Victoria & Albert Museum opposite. The entrance is a few yards on your left.

Victoria & Albert (V&A) Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum is the major museum in the UK for arts and design. Like the Science Museum and Natural History Museum entrance is free and the museum is open 7 days a week.

The London Oratory

On leaving the main exit of the V&A Museum turn left on the wide pavement heading eastwards towards Knightsbridge. Immediately on your left is the London Oratory, the London headquarters of the Catholic Oratorian Order. There are several masses offered each day and private masses are available by arrangement.

During the 1980s the KGB had a dead letter box near the alter.

Rembrandt Hotel

On the opposite side of the road is the Rembrandt Hotel, a 4-star hotel. The building was originally commissioned as a set of luxury suites for Harrods department store, which we visit very soon.

Carry on walking eastwards along what is now the Brompton Road. In the middle of the road you will see a green kiosk, probably with a few black cabs parked alongside. This is a tea room for the cab drivers. There used to be similar places all over London, those that are left are now protected.

Harrods department store

We finish our walk at Harrods, London's most prestigious and Europe's largest department store. The coveted Harrods bag can be relatively cheaply obtained by purchasing in the food hall.

Knightsbridge in which Harrods stands is one of the most desirable areas of London. One of the closest residential areas to the royal palaces and buildings of government. The area was developed about 200 years ago when it was unappealing marshland type terrain, hard to imagine now.

Further along Brompton Road at the junction with Sloane Street on the same side of the road is Harvey Nichols, London's most glamorous store.

Magic of London Tour with Cream Tea at Harrods

Shopping in Central London

Self-guided Shopping Walk

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Royal escape routes: King Charles' secret passageways, Prince William and Kate's panic room, more

The prince and princess of wales are said to have a panic room at kensington palace.

While the royals are arguably one of the world's most recognised families, their private lives remain shrouded in mystery. 

So much so, their private royal residences are said to have a number of hidden passages, little-known-about escape routes and secret 'panic rooms' to provide them with an extra layer of security. 

HELLO! shares everything you need to know about the royal family's getaway routes built into their royal residences…

King Charles' secret Buckingham Palace exit

Perhaps the most well-known 'secret' passage in Buckingham Palace is not so secret at all, given it's become a popular feature during public tours of the royal residence. 

In one of the State Rooms stands a grand golden mirror and dresser featuring candlestick ornaments and decorative jars. But the floor-to-ceiling mirror actually doubles up as a door leading to the King's private apartments.

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ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly revealed on a special episode aired from Buckingham Palace that the doorway in disguise is used by the King "to enter or leave the room discreetly whenever he so wishes".

Windsor Castle tunnels

It's not just Buckingham Palace which has hidden elements, as over at Windsor Castle, which is now the monarch's main residence, there is a secret underground tunnel.

In a BBC documentary, The Queen's Palaces , Fiona Bruce revealed the castle's secret passageway – and the hidden exit is like something out of a James Bond film.

As the newsreader showed viewers into a seemingly normal, unassuming room inside the 900-year-old property, she said: "This is an office just tucked away in a corner of Windsor Castle. But look under here.

"Under the carpet, the presenter uncovered a wooden trap door leading to a secret tunnel. "As if by magic, just lift these and the medieval castle emerges," she said.

While we'd love to imagine the King using the passageway to slip away from Windsor undetected, the royal family's use today (if at all) of the secret passage remains shrouded in mystery. 

The rumoured tunnels beneath Buckingham Palace 

Rumours of a network of secret tunnels constructed under the Royal Family's headquarters in London have been fuelling conspiracy theories for decades.

While not confirmed, a web of secret tunnels linking Buckingham Palace to Whitehall and the Houses of Parliament seem plausible given the network of tunnels constructed under Whitehall during World War II, which provided a route for communications cables secure against bombing. 

Kensington Palace's panic room

The Prince and Princess of Wales now live in Adelaide Cottage in Windsor with their three children, Prince George , Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis .

When the family still lived in their London residence, Apartment 1A at Kensington Palace, they reportedly had a "panic room" installed for emergencies. "Kate and William’s royal apartment at Kensington Palace includes a panic room with an air filtration system, guarding against biological warfare, and an escape tunnel," revealed the Global Citizen.

"The royal panic rooms are designed to withstand poison gas, bombs or terrorist attacks; they are equipped with secure communications, beds, washing equipment and enough food and water for the royals to survive for at least a week.

"Royal fans who have toured Kensington Palace have also revealed via TikTok that the building has mirrored windows to prevent the public looking into the apartments private garden, while there is also a secret entrance used only by the royals. 

St James's Palace secret party passageway

While speaking to Richard Eden of the Daily Mail , Princess Eugenie's husband, Jack Brooksbank, spilled some information about a private tunnel linking St James' Palace to one of Mayfair's most exclusive bars. 

"'There is one to Dukes Bar from St James’s Palace,' he tells me at a party in London’s Kensington sponsored by his tequila brand, Casamigos. 'I haven’t used it yet, but I’d love to check it out,'" Eden reported.

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If you are reading this, the chances are you are obsessed with all things royalty – which is just as well because so are we! So obsessed, in fact, we’ve launched a club solely dedicated to covering them. So welcome to The HELLO! Royal Club . We would love you to join us there…

What is it?

Interactive community offering behind-the-scenes access, exclusive royal interviews, unmissable royal insights, and an illustrious royal  Inner Circle .

Member benefits

• Two weekly newsletters, one from  Emily Nash
• Video posts and audio notes from Emily Nash and the HELLO! Royal team
• Access to our royal community and opportunity to interact with club writers and members
• Participate in polls, comments and discussion threads
• Royal-themed puzzles with a weekly prize to be won
• Access to our Ask Me Anything sessions with our journalists
• Invitations to in-person and virtual events
• A subscription to the digital edition of HELLO! Magazine (Worth £82 annually)*
• Future ‘Inner Circle’ benefits

By royal decree

You are royally invited to join The HELLO! Royal Club – and then to go forth and spread the word to your fellow royal fans. See you in the club!

• Prince William And Kate
• Buckingham Palace
• Prince William
• Royal Homes
• King Charles
• Kate Middleton, The Princess of Wales

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Frogmore home was too small for Prince William and Princess Kate

Princess Kate and Prince William's Windsor cottage is unrecognisable in ultra-rare photo

Prince William and Princess Kate's sentimental Kenyan log cabin is a far cry from Adelaide Cottage

Princess Kate and Prince William's Adelaide Cottage home looks so different in super rare photo

Peeking behind the palace walls: AI envisions the private spaces of the royal family

King Charles opens up iconic room at Buckingham Palace to visitors in royal first

King Charles is hiring help at Buckingham Palace amid Scottish summer holiday

Prince William and Princess Kate's holiday home's special childhood connection

Gallery 14 opulent royal living rooms: princess kate, meghan markle, crown princess mary, more, why prince william and princess kate won't sleep at balmoral castle during upcoming summer trip, video article prince william and princess wedding photo was hiding in plain sight - details, princess kate's secluded pink cottage has a major flaw.