Hampton Court Palace
Tudor palace, magical gardens and family adventures
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
Half day to full day
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Weather Fit
Great for rainy days (indoor palace)
Stroller Access
Yes, mostly step-free
Washrooms
On-site with baby change
Food
Cafes and restaurant on-site
Parking
Paid car park nearby
Booking
Recommended
Parent Effort
Medium (supervision needed)
Hampton Court Palace is a magnificent day out where history comes alive for children and adults alike. The combination of grand state apartments, the famous maze, the Magic Garden playground and expansive riverside gardens means families can easily fill a whole day here.
About This Place
Hampton Court Palace offers families a historically rich day out with its fascinating mix of Tudor and baroque architecture. Young adventurers will delight in the Magic Garden, a vibrant adventure playground featuring mysterious beasts and battlements. The vast 60-acre gardens provide a playful escape for both children and adults alike. Family tickets are available, with free entry for members, making this a perfect spot for educational fun and exploration.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday
- 10:00 – 17:30
- Sunday
- 10:00 – 17:30
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Explore Royal History
Wander through Henry VIII's apartments and imagine life as a Tudor courtier.
Magic Garden Playground
An imaginative adventure playground with mythical beasts, towers and sand pits.
The Famous Maze
Get lost together in the UK's oldest surviving hedge maze - a timeless family challenge.
Riverside Gardens
60 acres of beautiful gardens perfect for picnics, running around and spotting wildlife.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Family tickets
- Available online - usually better value than individual tickets
- Magic Garden age suitability
- Best for ages 2-13; under 3s must be accompanied on equipment
- Pushchair access
- Most areas are accessible but some historic floors have steps
- Food options
- Family-friendly cafe and restaurant on-site; picnic areas in gardens
- Parking
- Paid car park a short walk from the palace entrance
- Audio guides
- Available and recommended for older children and adults
Kid Fit by Age
Gardens good for pram walks; indoor palace can be crowded
Magic Garden is ideal; lots of space to toddle in gardens
Perfect age for Magic Garden, maze and spotting costumes
Engaging history, interactive trails and the maze challenge
History and gardens appeal; may want more interactive elements
Architecture, gardens and history interesting for culturally curious teens
Insider Tips
Arrive early and do the Magic Garden first before it gets busy
Pick up a family trail from the entrance - it keeps children engaged throughout the palace
Combine your visit with a walk along the Thames towpath for a scenic finish
Check the events calendar for themed family days and living history performances
- •Historic buildings have uneven floors and steps - hold little hands
- •The Magic Garden has climbing structures - supervise young children
- •The maze can be disorientating for very young children - stay together
- •Riverside areas near the Thames require close supervision of children
- •Step-free routes available through most of the palace
- •Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities on-site
- •Some historic areas have unavoidable steps
- •Audio described tours available for visually impaired visitors
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings are usually quieter. School holidays are busy but have extra family activities. The Magic Garden is best enjoyed in dry weather.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxComfortable walking shoes for exploring gardens and palace
- check_boxWeather-appropriate clothing - much of the visit is outdoors
- check_boxPicnic blanket and snacks for the gardens
- check_boxCamera for the stunning architecture and garden views
Location
Address
Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU, United Kingdom
Phone
+442031666000