How to Plan Your Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour

Are you interested in immersing yourself in royal history? Look no further than the Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour! This tour takes you to two royal residences in one day, providing plenty of opportunities to see incredible architectural styles and learn about the English monarchy. Follow these simple steps to plan your tour.

Step 1: Booking Your Tour

Begin by booking your tour through GetYourGuide.com. The link to book the tour is here. By booking through this website, you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible price for the tour. Make sure to choose the date and time that works best for you.

Step 2: Meeting Your Guide

On the day of your tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in London by your private guide. They will be waiting for you in a comfortable car, and will be happy to answer any questions that you have throughout the day.

Step 3: Visiting Hampton Court Palace

The first stop on your tour is Hampton Court Palace. This palace was a favorite summer home of King Henry VIII, and is an opulent fusion of architectural styles. During your visit, you will be able to:

• Enjoy a guided tour of Hampton Court Palace and Gardens
• See the Abraham Tapestries commissioned by Henry VIII to celebrate the birth of his only son Edward
• Visit the lavish State Rooms, Great Hall, and Chapel Royal
• Wander through the vast medieval kitchens and cellars to gain a fascinating insight into the challenges of feeding 600 people in the 16th century
• Explore 60 acres of formal gardens and lose yourself in the world-famous maze

Step 4: Touring Windsor Castle

After your visit to Hampton Court Palace, it’s time to head to Windsor Castle. This is a chance to see royal Windsor and experience the history of another impressive castle. During your visit, you will be able to:

• Enjoy a guided tour of Windsor Castle
• See the State Apartments used by the Queen for official occasions
• Admire St. George’s Chapel, the burial place of 10 monarchs, including Henry VIII and Charles I
• View the legendary Round Tower and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area

Step 5: Returning to London

After your tour of Windsor Castle, it’s time to head back to London. Your guide will drive you back to your hotel, and you can reflect on the incredible day that you have had.

Book Your Tour Now

The Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour is an excellent way to see two impressive royal residences in one day. By following these steps, you can easily plan your tour and enjoy all that these historic sites have to offer. Don’t wait, book your tour today!

Hampton Court Palace FAQs

Hampton Court Palace is a royal palace located in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. This popular tourist attraction has been around for over 500 years and has a rich history that draws visitors from all around the world. Here are some frequently asked questions about Hampton Court Palace, along with helpful answers.

1. What is Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace is a royal palace in London that was built for Cardinal Wolsey in the early 16th century. It was later taken over by King Henry VIII and added to over the years by various monarchs. The palace is now open to the public and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London.

2. How do I get to Hampton Court Palace?

Hampton Court Palace is well-connected to London via public transport. You can take the train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court Station, which is just a short walk from the palace. Alternatively, you can take a boat from central London along the River Thames, which will drop you off at the palace’s private dock.

3. What are the opening times?

Hampton Court Palace is open every day, except for 24-26 December. Opening times vary throughout the year, but generally, the palace opens at 10 am and closes at 6 pm. However, it’s always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.

4. Are there any guided tours?

Yes, there are a variety of guided tours available at Hampton Court Palace. These tours are led by knowledgeable and friendly guides who will take you around the palace and give you an in-depth look at its history and features. There are private tours as well as group tours available.

5. What are the entrance fees?

The entrance fees for Hampton Court Palace vary depending on whether you’re visiting the palace or the gardens. For adults, a palace admission ticket costs £24.50, while a combined palace and gardens ticket costs £29.20. Children under 16 can enter for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

6. Are there any special events or exhibitions on?

Yes, there are often special events and exhibitions taking place at Hampton Court Palace. These can range from historical reenactments and themed tours to art exhibits and concerts. Check the official website to see what’s on during your visit.

7. Can I take pictures inside the palace?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the palace, but there are some restrictions. Flash photography and the use of tripods are not permitted, and some areas of the palace may be off-limits for photography. If you’re unsure, ask a member of staff.

8. Is there a gift shop on site?

Yes, there is a gift shop at Hampton Court Palace that sells a range of souvenirs, gifts, and books about the palace’s history. There are also several cafes and restaurants on site where you can enjoy a meal or a snack.

9. Can I bring my own food and drink?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drink to enjoy in the palace gardens. However, food and drink are not allowed inside the palace itself, and there are several cafes and restaurants on site where you can purchase refreshments.

10. Is the palace wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most areas of the palace are accessible for wheelchair users, including the gardens. There are also wheelchair-accessible toilets on site. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the palace and gardens.

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

As one of the most famous & historically significant palaces in England, Hampton Court Palace is a must-see attraction for every tourist. Located in the borough of Richmond upon Thames in southwest London, this magnificent palace stands on the northern bank of the Thames River, depicting history & stories of British royalty. Hampton Court Palace was originally built in the 16th century by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, and later expanded by King Henry VIII. It reveals both Tudor & Baroque architectural styles and offers an extensive range of attractions and activities for visitors to experience. In this guide, we will explore the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Hampton Court Palace to enjoy a fascinating and memorable visit.

1. Take a Historical Tour of the Palace

The best way to start your visit to Hampton Court Palace is by taking a historical tour. The palace offers a complimentary audio guide, which provides an immersive experience of the palace’s history and its royal occupants. While walking through the palace’s state apartments, galleries, and courtyards, the audio guide will lead you to the stories of different monarchs, including King Henry VIII and William III.

2. Visit the State Rooms

One of the highlights of Hampton Court Palace is its State Rooms. The State Rooms were used for official ceremonies and events by the royals, and they reflect the magnificent styles of the Tudor and Baroque periods. The Great Hall, where Henry VIII and his wives were served their meals, is particularly impressive. The Great Watching Chamber, the Chapel Royal, and the King’s apartments are also worth seeing.

3. Explore the Gardens

Hampton Court Palace has over 60 acres of gardens, including the famous Privy Garden, the Wilderness Garden, and the Great Vine. The Privy Garden is a parterre garden and the oldest surviving garden in England, while the Wilderness Garden is famous for its maze and is a great attraction for children. The Great Vine is the world’s largest vine and is over 250 years old, producing up to 600 pounds of grapes each year. Don’t forget to walk along the River Thames bank, where you can see the stunning views and relax in the peaceful surroundings.

4. Watch the Costumed Performances

Another excellent way to experience the history of Hampton Court Palace is to watch a costumed performance. During peak seasons, the palace offers different events on specific dates where actors dressed in the Tudor period put on interactive performances. The performers interact with visitors and often re-enact the most famous royal episodes that took place within the palace walls.

5. Enjoy a Feast in the Tudor Kitchens

Located beside the great hall, the Tudor kitchen is a must-see element of Hampton Court Palace. The kitchen is the largest of its kind in the world, with the capacity to make food for up to 1,000 people. You can visit the kitchen and see how the Tudor chefs cooked for the royal court, what ingredients they used, and how they prepared challenging dishes. It is advisable to check for the demonstration timings before your visit and plan your visit accordingly.

6. Attend the Hampton Court Palace Festival

Attending the Hampton Court Palace Festival is a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of the palace while enjoying world-class performers. The festival usually runs for ten days in the summer, and it is a fantastic way to celebrate music and cultur in the gardens of the palace.

7. Go Behind the Scenes with a VIP Tour

For a truly luxurious experience at Hampton Court Palace, opt for a VIP tour. The tour offers a personal guide, exclusive access to the palace’s hidden areas, and a private view of the priceless art collections, including the world-famous tapestries.

Book Your Tour Now

A visit to Hampton Court Palace is a captivating experience, and it’s a fantastic way to learn and experience the grandeur of the English monarchy. From the grand State Rooms, vast Tudor Kitchens, and sprawling gardens, to the interactive events and cultural celebrations, there is something for every visitor to enjoy. Make sure to plan your visit in advance, and don’t forget to take your camera with you to capture the picturesque views and lasting memories.