Exploring Hampton Court Palace

After more than eight years living in Britain, we finally made our way to one of the most famous palaces, and also one of the most convenient to London, Hampton Court Palace. It is actually two palaces that have been melded together right along the banks of the River Thames, just west of Richmond and just east of Windsor.

The original Palace was built in the 1520s by Henry VIII. Of course Henry went on to be rather famous for beheading and divorcing wives, but at the time it was built, he was still a young, athletic and loving husband of his first wife. The Palace was a primary location for hunting parties and general hosting of court and foreign dignitaries. The second part of the Palace was built in the late 1600s by William III in an effort to rival Versailles, however the works were halted and the building has remained largely as it was since then.

It is quite an experience to wander through bedrooms that are larger than your house and walls covered in tapestries that could envelop several cars! The ornate and opulent interior is quite something, even though the exterior is not overly sumptuous.

  

The gardens however are lovely. We were there in December, meaning everything was well and truly dead, but it is easy to see how in full bloom the formal gardens and wider parkland would be sensational. Hampton Court does contain the world’s longest/largest vine, the Great Vine, which has been living/growing since 1769!

We really enjoyed having a wander around this magnificent palace, especially as there were re-enactors on site displaying how the kitchens were staffed and food prepared, as well as a jester show and other courtiers. They weren’t everywhere, but it really added a little faux historical touch. 

It is a great place to spend a few hours so we definitely recommend a visit for anyone in the vicinity!