Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is a working Royal Residence and has a significant place in the history of London. The Palace was the favoured home of the Monarchy until the eighteenth century. It was the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria.

In modern times Kensington Palace houses offices and apartments of some members of the Royal family. The Jacobean building was purchased from the Earl of Nottingham by William III in 1689 and was extended by Sir Christopher Wren. Rotten Row was a private road from the Palace to Hyde Park Corner. Kensington Palace was the former home of Princess Diana.

Although some members of the Royal Family still live and work here, some of the historic areas are open to the public and is the home of the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. The exhibition Hats and Handbags is on view at Kensington Palace, a collection of over seventy hats and accessories belonging to Queen Elizabeth II. The Kings Apartments include an exuberant staircase with impressive paintings adorning the walls. The Queens Apartment has been restored after it was damaged during the war.

Visitors may also wish to take tea at the Orangery Restaurant. The Palace is a 10-15 minute walk from the High Street Kensington Underground Station.