We here at Kidrated love Hampton Court! Home to Henry VIII and prison to Charles I, Hampton Court Palace has hosted a range of royals during its history and has been open for public viewing since the 19th century.
See Henry VIII’s hanging tapestries in the elaborate Great Hall, or marvel at a sparkling recreation of his crown in the Royal Pew. Those who fancy meeting the great man ‘himself’ can buy tickets for ‘A Living Tudor World’. Just be sure to practice your bows and curtsies.
Food-lovers can explore the royal kitchens originally designed to feed at least 600 people, twice a day. Those with a sweet tooth will love seeing the Chocolate Kitchens where King George I’s personal chocolatier used to prepare chocolate drinks for royal dinners.
Live historic cookery events throughout the year give you the chance to learn the mouthwatering recipes fit for a king.
Hampton Court Maze, built in 1700 and the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze, provides a challenge for the adventurous and curious. Kids can become modern-day explorers with help from the Time Explorers app, which will take them on an interactive journey around the grounds.
Or if you prefer, guided tours are available with dramatic presentations en route. Check online to see which days are best for Hampton Court Palace’s seasonal guided tours and talks (included in your ticket price). Or for plenty of great family-friendly activity suggestions.
If you and your family enjoy visiting royal palaces and castles, why not also check out the KidRated reviews of Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle?
I loved going to Hampton Court as a teenager. There’s so much interesting history there that keeps you hooked. I especially liked seeing the kitchens. I never knew the ways in which they stored milk and cheese and other perishables. Absolutely fascinating. The best bit was probably the chocolate kitchen though… might have to keep that in mind for my own house one day.
You can find loads more information by Laura Porter at aboutlondonlaura.com
The palace is overwhelmingly large, BUT there are some great activities to participate in on some weekends. Our favourite place to go is the kitchen, where re-enactors hold demonstrations of how food was prepared. They are excellent at letting kids get involved and demonstrating pie moulds and talking about roasting meats on spits, which is much more intersting than it sounds. Of course there are apartments and art work, which might become tedious for younger visitors. There really is a load to take in. Kids will likely enjoy the maze outside. It might be best for older kids and teens who have a keen interest in history.
How much would I need outdoors compared to indoors with kids? Wondering if I can handle the cold…
Weather reports say it’s going to warm up half way through the week so something to look forward to!
My kids love it here. The maze, the actors playing the parts of Henry and his posse of wives, little secret gardens round by the great vine, and the arsenal room. Warm up by the kitchen fire in the winter.