Kensington Palace

Overview

Nestled within the lush, manicured expanse of Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace is a stunning, elegant royal residence possessing an incredibly layered, dramatic history stretching strictly back over 300 years.

Highlights

• The King's State Apartments: The opulent, dramatic grand staircase leading into lavish rooms spectacularly adorned with massive, vivid ceiling frescoes by William Kent.
• The Sunken Garden: A beautiful, manicured, vibrant terraced floral garden, famously a quiet refuge for Princess Diana.
• Queen Victoria's Childhood: touching, intimate original exhibitions focusing on the lonely, tightly controlled early life of Queen Victoria in those very rooms.

History

Purchased decisively by King King William III and Queen Mary II firmly in 1689 because the smoggy, thick air of Whitehall exacerbated William's severe asthma. It most famously served solidly as the official central residence for Diana, Princess of Wales, and is currently the official London home of the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Visitor Tips

• The Orangery: The massive, elegant 18th-century greenhouse on the grounds is, the premier, most spectacular location within London for a traditional afternoon tea.
• The Grounds: The massive, incredibly gorgeous surrounding gardens are free to the public, functioning seamlessly into Hyde Park.
• Duration: 2 hours.