Hampton Court Palace, Gardens & Maze: Entry Ticket

It comes as no shock that this grand and extravagant complex, which means 'fit for a king', was the preferred home of the extravagant Henry VIII. This will probably become a beloved destination for your family too if you purchase tickets to Hampton Court Palace, where you can enjoy costumed guides, extensive grounds, and beautiful apartments.

Although the British Royal Family hasn't lived in Hampton Court Palace since the 18th Century, during their residence it was an extremely bustling place. Situated on the banks of the Thames, this expansive red-brick palace was the focal point of royal activities. Today, it offers a fascinating insight into the experiences of the royals and nobles who once visited there.

Take note in advance, your Hampton Court Palace tickets enable you to enter more than 60 acres of gardens, six acres of Tudor and Baroque buildings, and 750 acres of parkland, which might lead you to feel daunted.

If you are looking for some starting points, be sure to visit the enormous kitchens (used to satisfy Henry VIII's famously large appetites), the Great Hall with its double-hammered beams where Shakespeare's troupe - the 'King's Men' - entertained King James I, and the Cumberland Art Gallery, home to pieces by Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and other artists.

Another must-see attraction during your visit is the Royal Apartments. There are six different themed walking tours available for you to explore. As the information for the tours you can take on your own is limited, it is recommended to obtain an audio guide or join one of the complimentary walking tours guided by a historian dressed in period costume.

In case the weather is pleasant, make sure to dedicate some time for exploring the area: there are 60 acres of gardens and 750 acres of parkland. The garden maze, which was constructed by William III in 1700, offers a delightful and stimulating diversion.

Catherine Howard (Henry VIII's fifth wife) was imprisoned in the Haunted Gallery here and vehemently objected to her captivity. She was later put to death at the Tower of London on charges of adultery. Displeased with this fate and her overall ordeal, her spirit decided to come back to Hampton Court and continue wailing.

Guess who misplaced a chocolate kitchen?! It appears that the British did. Or have. The Chocolate Kitchens at Hampton Court Palace had been missing for centuries, but were just recently found. They were reopened in February 2014. Originally constructed for William and Mary circa 1689, it stands as the sole royal chocolate kitchen in the UK. You can even grab a Georgian chocolate recipe and participate in a chocolate cooking demonstration.