Hampton Court Palace tour

Hampton Court Palace combines grand royal interiors with stories of intrigue and legendary ghosts. On the banks of the Thames, it offers a particularly vivid setting for exploring Tudor court life and the ambitions of later monarchs. The ghost stories are part of its folklore, adding atmosphere to a palace with a substantial history of its own.

Cardinal Wolsey began major rebuilding at Hampton Court in 1515, creating an impressive residence suited to his powerful position. Henry VIII acquired the palace in 1528 and continued to transform it. Wolsey later fell from favour and died while travelling to face proceedings.

Under Henry VIII, the palace expanded into a setting for the royal household, government and entertainment. Events involving the king and his family became closely associated with its rooms and courtyards, giving rise to stories that remain central to a visit today.

Henry VIII married six times, and two of his wives were executed following accusations of treason. Catherine Howard is linked to one of Hampton Court’s best-known ghost legends. Guides and displays can introduce these stories while keeping a clear distinction between the historical people and the folklore that later grew around them.

The architecture and interiors are as compelling as the court stories. Depending on the day’s visitor route, highlights include royal apartments, Tudor kitchens and the magnificent Great Hall with its tapestries. The hall is a notable survival of royal Tudor architecture, with decoration that rewards a careful look.

The gardens reveal different periods of royal taste, from formal layouts to the celebrated hedge maze. Paintings and decorative collections add further detail inside the palace. Check the current route, garden access and any closures when planning the day, especially if a particular area is a priority.

William III and Mary II commissioned a major transformation of Hampton Court, with Christopher Wren’s Baroque work adding a very different architectural language. Much of the Tudor palace survived alongside it. Walking between the two gives visitors an unusually clear comparison of royal tastes across different periods, with memorable views from the courtyards and gardens.

• Planning your Hampton Court Palace tour