For more than 300 years, Kensington Palace has been a famous royal residence.
It is of great historical importance. From 1760 to 1760, successive sovereigns made it their favorite residence. The Palace London is also known as Queen Victoria’s birthplace and has been the abode of numerous royal families.
However, the palace is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of this iconic home and grounds.
Let’s travel back in time to explore the royal residence’s allure.
Quick Overview Of The Blog: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Kensington Palace in London
- History of Kensington Palace: Witnessing centuries of British history and serving as the childhood home of Queen Victoria and a residence for other prominent royal family members.
- Victoria: A Royal Childhood: Provides visitors with an intimate look into the formative years of Queen Victoria.
- The King’s State Apartments: Showcase exquisite furnishings and lavish decorations fit for royalty.
- The Queen’s State Apartments: Display magnificent artwork, excellent furnishings, and exquisite design.
- Sunken Garden Modern Royals: Featuring innovative floral designs and installations inspired by the lives and legacies of modern members of the royal family.
History of Kensington Palace
The earliest known version of the royal residence was built as Nottingham House, a tiny home, in the early 17th century.
Born and raised in the Palace, Queen Victoria chose to reign from Buckingham Palace despite being expected to reign from Kensington or St James’s Palace.
Furthermore, it underwent several renovations and expansions before becoming the opulent mansion it is today. One of the most significant changes occurred when King William III and Queen Mary II moved in in the late 17th century.
However, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and his wife Kate, are among the high-ranking royals who still call it home. The King’s and Queen’s State Apartments are among the palace’s several areas that are open to the public.
Practical Information
- Location: London W8 4PX, Kensington Gardens
- Opening Times: 10:00 – 18:00, Wednesday through Sunday (a reservation is advised)
- Ticket price: Adult, £24.00 and Child (under 16 years old), £12.00.
- Getting There: Queensway (Central line) and High Street Kensington (Circle and District lines) are the closest tube stations. Many bus routes stop near the palace on Kensington Church Street, Kensington High Street, and Bayswater Road.
What’s Inside Kensington Palace?
Victoria: A Royal Childhood
Explore the life of Princess Victoria, the young girl who later became queen, in the rooms of the royal residence where she was born and raised.
The exhibition commemorates the 200th anniversary of her birth in 2019 and features quirky items from her early years, including a dollhouse and a scrapbook by Baroness Lehzen. In addition, curators have spent years reconstructing rooms from Victoria’s early years, including letters from the Duke of Kent on the day of her birth.
The King’s State Apartments
The greatest apartment is the King’s State Apartments. In this part of the palace, rooms from the Victorian era and artwork from the vast Royal Collection are on show alongside furniture and paintings from the Stuart-Hanoverian periods.
Moreover, the King’s State Apartments comprise The King’s Staircase, The Privy Chamber, the Presence Chamber, The King’s Drawing Room, The King’s Gallery, The Cupola Room, and The Council Chamber.
The Queen’s State Apartments
Queen Mary’s second apartment at the royal residence was constructed for her when she and her husband moved into the royal residence. The Queen’s State Apartments, which include a Queen’s Staircase, Gallery, Closet, Dining Room, and Drawing Room, were a favorite hangout for her and the royal consorts. Even though they are not as plentiful as the King’s, the Queen’s State Apartments offer a fascinating look into the life of a royal.
As visitors explore these regal rooms, they are immersed in the rich history and cultural heritage of the British royal family and experience the splendor of royal life firsthand.
Sunken Garden Modern Royals
Initially created in 1908 as a potting shed transformed into a traditional decorative garden, The Sunken Garden is a private green oasis. Throughout the year, lovely rotating floral arrangements ensure visitors never see a dull sight. Nevertheless, from April to August, the garden showcases vibrant, exotic flowers like geraniums, cannas, and begonias, while spring brings tulips, wallflowers, and pansies.
An enthusiastic tourist, Vera says, “I loved exploring Kensington Palace and its gardens. It’s incredible to think about the history that has unfolded within its walls. The Sunken Garden was especially lovely, a peaceful oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a tranquil escape, the royal residence is worth a visit.”
FAQ
Who lives in the Palace now?
The offices and London residences of the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke and Duchess of Kent, and the Prince and Princess Michael of Kent are currently in the royal residence.
What is the difference between Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace?
The only apparent differences between the two are the location’s size and current use, which are surprisingly few.
Which are the top attractions in London?
The following are the top attractions in London:
Somerset House
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Peter Harrison Planetarium
The London Eye
Big Ben
The Tower Of London
Tower Bridge of London
Buckingham Palace
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