When was Kensington Palace built?

Kensington Palace was originally built in 1605 as a two-storey palace.

Who had occupied Kensington Palace initially?

The palace was first occupied by Sir Choppin that was followed by the Earl of Nottingham, and many others.

Who lives in Kensington Palace now?

The family of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge currently lives in Kensington Palace now.

Is Kensington Palace still a part of the royal residents?

Yes, it is still a part of the royal residents.

How long does it take to cover Kensington Palace?

It takes nearly 2-3 hours to cover Kensington palace in its entirety

Kensington Palace London | The Royal Residence

Quick Information

ADDRESS

Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, UK

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

Timings

10:00–16:00

VISITORS PER YEAR

400000

TICKETS

From $28.45

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

2+ hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)

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Did you know?

In the 18th century, Kensington Palace was the hub of the Georgian Royal Court, and had a strict dress code. Women wore wide skirts and had elaborate hairstyles with feathers, while men donned wigs, embroidered suits, and silk stockings.

Queen Anne, who resided at Kensington Palace, experienced significant personal tragedy, enduring 18 pregnancies with only five children born alive, and just one son surviving infancy.

Kensington Palace was Princess Diana’s home after her marriage to Prince Charles and during their separation. It was where she raised her sons, William and Harry, and where she conducted her famous interview with Martin Bashir. Visitors can view some of Diana’s iconic dresses in the "Dress Codes" exhibition, which explores the history and significance of royal fashion.

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Kensington Palace Tickets

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Royal Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace with Walking Tour of the Gardens

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Combo (Save 5%): Tower of London + Kensington Palace Tickets

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Combo (Save 5%): Kew Gardens + Kensington Palace Admission Tickets

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What to see at Kensington Palace?

The King’s State Apartments

The King’s State Apartments is the most luxurious apartment at Kensington Palace. It features everything from grandiose staterooms and Presence Chamber to the Cupola Room, the King’s Gallery and lots more.

The King’s Staircase

The walls of the King’s Staircase were painted by William Kent as a vivid recreation of George I and has gained immense popularity over centuries. The artwork displays a lively 18th-century court of intriguing and unexpected characters.

The King’s Gallery

The King’s Gallery takes pride in being the largest and longest state apartment in Kensington Palace which was transformed by King George I in 1725. It was used primarily for exercise as well as exhibiting pictures.

The Queen’s State Apartments

The Queen’s apartments is where Mary, and later royal consorts, lived. This included the Queen’s Staircase, the Queen’s Gallery, the Queen’s Closest, the Queen’s Dining Room and the Queen’s Drawing Room.

Victoria: A Royal Childhood Exhibition

Here, you will get the chance to learn the story of Princess Victoria. Unfold all about the young girl, who was destined to be queen, explore the rooms where she was born and raised at Kensington Palace for an unforgettable experience.

Sunken Garden

The Sunken Garden was first designed and constructed in 1908. In 2017, the garden was completely renovated in white flowers for visitors to reflect and celebrate the life of Princess Diana.

Kensington Palace Gardens

Walk in the footsteps of royalty in the stunning gardens of Kensington Palace. The Sunken Garden, Cradle Walk, Wildflowers and Formal gardens are some of the top must-visit Kensington Palace Gardens.

History of Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace, a historic royal residence, has been central to British royal life since 1689. Originally a Jacobean mansion built by Sir George Coppin in 1605, it was transformed into a royal palace by King William III and Queen Mary II, who commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to expand it, adding pavilions and a clock tower. Subsequent monarchs, including Queen Anne and King George I, enhanced the palace by introducing the orangery and the Cupola Room. In the 19th century, the palace was the home of Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex, who created a vast library and hosted scientific gatherings. Princess Victoria was born and raised here under the strict Kensington System. Historians, including Lucy Worsley, have explored the palace's historical connections to the slave trade. Today, Kensington Palace is a testament to the grandeur of the British monarchy and the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Who built Kensington Palace?

Christopher Wren

Christopher Wren, a master of English Baroque architecture, significantly contributed to Kensington Palace’s grandeur. In 1689, he transformed Nottingham House into a royal residence for King William III and Queen Mary II. Wren designed the state apartments, including the grand Cupola Room and Orangery, showcasing his ornate and grandiose style expertise. His collaboration with Nicholas Hawksmoor further enhanced the palace’s architectural legacy, making it a lasting testament to his brilliance.

Nicholas Hawksmoor

Nicholas Hawksmoor served as the Clerk of Works at Kensington Palace from 1689 to 1715, overseeing its expansion and rebuilding under Sir Christopher Wren's direction. Notably, Hawksmoor supervised the construction of the Orangery between 1704 and 1705, ensuring Wren's design was expertly executed. His role involved managing daily construction activities and overseeing builders and craftsmen, playing a crucial part in realizing Wren's architectural vision for the palace.

Architecture of Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace, a royal residence in London, exemplifies the evolution of architectural styles and the influence of prominent architects. Initially a Jacobean mansion built by Sir George Coppin in 1605, it was significantly transformed under Sir Christopher Wren's guidance. Wren's design incorporated the English Baroque style, notable for its grand proportions and ornate details. Nicholas Hawksmoor contributed to the construction of the Orangery and the Queen's Gallery, further enhancing the palace's architectural splendor. This blend of styles mirrors the tastes of successive monarchs, creating a rich tapestry of design. Today, Kensington Palace is a popular tourist destination that is celebrated for its historical and architectural significance.