Kew Palace is a small royal palace located in the Kew Gardens in London. The palace is one of the few surviving buildings from the Georgian era, and is known for its rich history and cultural significance.
Kew Palace was originally built in 1631 as a modest mansion by the merchant Samuel Fortrey. In the late 17th century, the palace was acquired by the royal family, and was subsequently used as a country retreat by various monarchs, including King George III and Queen Charlotte.
The palace underwent a number of renovations and improvements over the years, and was eventually transformed into a comfortable and elegant royal residence. The palace features a range of different rooms and spaces, including a series of state apartments, a dining room, a kitchen, and a range of private chambers and living spaces.
One of the most famous features of Kew Palace is the Great Room, a grand and opulent space that was used for a range of different social and cultural events. The room features a range of different decorative elements, including ornate plasterwork, intricate carvings, and a large bay window that offers stunning views of the surrounding gardens.
Kew Palace is also known for its unique and fascinating history, which is closely linked to the life and reign of King George III. The palace was the home of the king and queen during the most turbulent period of their reign, and was the site of many important and significant events in British history.
One of the most famous events to have taken place at Kew Palace is the death of Princess Amelia, the youngest daughter of King George III and Queen Charlotte. Amelia died at the palace in 1810, and her death was a major blow to the royal family, who were already dealing with the king’s deteriorating mental health.
Another famous event to have taken place at Kew Palace is the visit of the composer Franz Joseph Haydn, who stayed at the palace in 1791 as a guest of the king and queen. Haydn gave several performances at the palace, and was a popular and much-loved figure among the royal family and their friends.
Kew Palace is also known for its important role in the development of the Kew Gardens, which were first established in the late 18th century. The palace played a significant role in the design and development of the gardens, and was the site of many important scientific experiments and discoveries.
Today, Kew Palace is open to the public, and visitors can explore the palace and its surrounding gardens, which are among the most beautiful and historic in the country. The palace is home to a range of different exhibitions and displays, which explore the history and culture of the Georgian era and the life and reign of King George III.
One of the most popular exhibitions at Kew Palace is the Queen’s Garden, which is a beautiful and serene space that was originally designed by Queen Charlotte in the late 18th century. The garden features a range of different plants and flowers, including rare and exotic species, and is a peaceful and tranquil oasis in the heart of London.
Kew Palace is also home to a range of other facilities and services, including a gift shop and a cafe, as well as a range of educational and outreach programs. The palace offers a range of educational activities and workshops, aimed at promoting the study and appreciation of history and culture, as well as a range of public programs and events, including lectures, discussions, and cultural performances.
Maps
Contact
Opening Hours
Video
FAQ's
Kew Palace is inside the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – how do I visit the palace?
To reach the palace you need a ticket for The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Once inside the gardens Kew Palace is free to access. Historic Royal Palaces members get a discount on admission tickets to Kew Gardens upon presentation of their membership card.
How do I visit Queen Charlotte's Cottage?
Queen Charlotte’s cottage is located within the grounds of Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, tickets for which can be found on their website. Opening times for the cottage can be found here. Please note, this is subject to short notice change.
How do I visit the Great Pagoda?
The Great Pagoda sits within the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and a gardens admission ticket is required. An additional ticket is needed to climb the Great Pagoda. Historic Royal Palaces members can climb the pagoda for free. Present your membership card at the Kew Gardens gate on entrance to book your time slot. Members also enjoy a 10% discount on Kew Gardens admission. The Great Pagoda reopens for pre-booked guided tours from 5 June 2021.
I am a member of Historic Royal Palaces – how do I book my visit?
Members of Historic Royal Palaces need a Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew ticket to access the palace. Members are entitled to a discounted admissions ticket. To validate the discounted rate please bring your Historic Royal Palaces membership card with you and present it to ticketing staff at the ticket kiosks at Kew Gardens. Members are entitled to free admission to the Great Pagoda, and will be given the next available time slot on the day by showing their membership card.
Can I take photos in the palace?
You are welcome to take non-commercial photographs (without the use of flash) within the palace in most cases. Some items or imagery may be prohibited from being photographed and this will be clearly signposted, or ask a member of staff if you are unsure. Filming is not permitted within the palace. The use of tripods and selfie-sticks is prohibited. Images of the palace are available for sale from our Photographic Library. Requests for commercial photography, filming or sketching should be made in advance.
How do I book a Guided Tour?
Hosts are available throughout the palace and can answer any questions you may have. If you are a small group we may be able to provide a pre-booked guided tour, subject to availability. Email kewpalace@hrp.org.uk to discuss your needs.
Where can I leave my bag while visiting Kew Palace?
No left luggage facilities are available at Kew Palace, but lockers are available in the grounds of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Lockers can be found nearby at the Elizabeth and Victoria gates and are operated with a £1.00 coin.
I think I left some property behind, how do I retrieve it?
If you lose something during your visit please contact the nearest member of staff. Alternatively, contact kewpalace@hrp.org.uk and ops@kew.org and we’ll do our best to try to reunite you with your property.
Can I have a wedding photo-shoot or engagement shoot at the palace?
Wedding and engagement photography within Kew Palace is available exclusively to our brides and grooms.
What is the dress code at the palace?
There is no specific dress code for visitors to Kew Palace. We do ask that you dress respectfully as families are likely to be present. If there are offensive slogans or other clothing items deemed to be inappropriate you may be approached by a member of staff.
How do I get more information on the displayed collections?
For general information, browse History and Stories and Explore. For detailed information relating to the collections on display, email curators@hrp.org.uk
