Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, rebuilt on a large scale in 1515 by Thomas Wolsey, is a wonderful place to visit for all the family.

Packed with fun quizzes, activities, facts and pictures, the family trails are a perfect way to explore the Palace. There are also family audio tours and children can meet costumed characters from the Court of King Henry VIII during costumed presentations.

They say the Palace is haunted and there is a special Children’s Ghost Trail to track them down! Families can also try to decipher the ciphers by finding the Royal initials that have been left over the years.

Don’t forget to peep into the newly uncovered rooms now called the Chocolate Kitchens! Younger children can enjoy the Family Room, which has a selection of toys suitable for the under 5s.

Once outside, get ready to challenge each other as you lose yourselves in the wonderful Maze, covering a third of an acre. Who can get to the middle first of the two metre high hedges that twist and turn, with false routes and dead ends?

The Palace gardens are internationally renowned and are wonderful in all season. Go for a stroll or take a Shire Horse drawn tram ride.

Whether you want to feast like a king or simply enjoy a light bite, the cafes offer a great choice of snacks and meals.

Tickets for the Palace can be booked online, or on the gate with a slightly higher ticket price.

Look out for some great family events throughout the year.