Group visits guide 2019-20 - Historic Royal Palaces
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Group visits guide 2019-20
Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 1
Historic Royal Palaces is the independent Treat your groups Tower of page 8
charity that looks after the Tower London
of London, Hampton Court Palace, to over 900 years of
Banqueting House, Kensington Palace,
Kew Palace, the Royal Kitchens, the secrets, stories and
Great Pagoda, at Kew, Queen Charlotte’s
Cottage, and Hillsborough Castle and royal history at Hampton page 14
Gardens. We are pleased and proud to
welcome group visitors and help them some of the greatest Court Palace
explore the stories of the monarchs and
people who have shaped society in some palaces ever built.
of the greatest palaces ever built. This
Group Visits Guide is designed to give
group organisers inspiration for excursions Follow in the Banqueting page 20
and days out and to make the process as
seamless as possible. With so much to footsteps of the House
uncover at so many attractions your only
problem is which to choose first! great, good, devious
How to use this guide and dastardly, taking
Kensington page 26
We have designed a helpful key to assist
in the planning of your group visit and home memories of a Palace
to ensure your customers have a fun
packed day and make the most of their great day out and a
time at the palaces
Look out for these icons on the Must See
desire to return
Attractions pages for each palace to
best tailor your group’s experience.
again and again. Kew Palace page 32
Steps and uneven staircases
Wheelchair access
Youth groups – children, families, Hillsborough page 38
multigenerational friendly
Castle
Large groups – space for large
group visits
Small groups – suitable for groups
up to 20 people at a time
At your service page 3
Private tours available on request
Ticketing options page 4
Gardens – activities for groups with Catering page 6
an interest in gardens
Get social with us page 44
2 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 3
At your service
Historic Royal Palaces has a Sales Team to assist
group organisers in planning visits to the palaces
as well as advising coach and tour operators with
itinerary and excursion planning.
Sales support Fanfare Accessibility
The Sales Team can help you Keep up with the latest news Our palaces welcome all visitors
with all your arrangements for from Historic Royal Palaces and we try to ensure that
your group’s perfect day out through the dedicated everyone’s visit is successful and
including assistance with publication for the group enjoyable. Registered disabled
planning itineraries, information organiser. visitors are charged the relevant
on our group ticketing options, ticket price and carers are
dedicated group ticket offices Email groupsandtraveltrade@ admitted free of charge.
and on-site catering. The sales hrp.org.uk to subscribe.
team can also help you promote As historical sites, our palaces do
Quick Blast! have uneven or cobbled surfaces
and sell your tours and Our mid-Fanfare e-update will
excursions with supplies of free and narrow staircases in places.
focus on last minute offers and Full accessibility information
leaflets, posters and images, early news of new exhibitions
which can be downloaded from including wheelchair access and
and events. information on sign language
www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
Email groupsandtraveltrade@ tours can be found on our
Free admission hrp.org.uk to subscribe. website www.hrp.org.uk
Free admission is given at all
palaces to coach drivers, full Easy to get to Website
members of AGTO when For group visits, all palaces have Visit the dedicated group
bringing a group of at least coach parking or pick-up and planning pages on the
30 paying visitors and locally drop-off facilities. All the London Historic Royal Palaces website,
registered Blue Badge Guides. palaces can be reached by rail, www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade,
underground and four palaces for the latest information and
Added value by riverboat. help in planning your itineraries
Group discounts apply to parties and online group booking.
of 15 or more (20 or more at
Hillsborough Castle) and regular
interpretation events are
included in general admission.
Money saving catering vouchers
and group menus available in
palace cafes.
Admission voucher scheme and
account facilities for coach and
tour operators upon application.
4 hrp.org.uk
Ticketing options
Historic Royal Palaces have developed group
friendly ticket options that allow easy access to the
palaces for your customers and simplified payment
terms for volume Travel Trade suppliers.
Royal Pass Agency Voucher Scheme B2B login
One ticket to over 900 years Our Agency Voucher Scheme Our voucher scheme clients can
of royal history allows approved travel industry also benefit from our new B2B
This trade only, flexible companies to submit a voucher login system, which allows
combination ticket offers for client’s admissions to the palace bookings to be made
unbeatable value and is available palaces, subject to minimum 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
in three versions giving you spend requirements. for the Tower of London and
choice and flexibility. The passes Hampton Court Palace.
are valid for two years from the A benefit of being a member of The system issues an e-ticket
date of issue for one visit per our agency voucher scheme that, once printed, is scanned at
valid palace, therefore giving the means there is no need to the point of entry, cutting down
traveller flexibility to plan their pre-book visits to the Tower of queuing and allowing more time
own itinerary. London or Hampton Court for customers to enjoy the
Palace however at the palaces whilst also streamlining
Four Palace pass Banqueting House, Kensington the invoicing process.
Tower of London, Hampton Palace, Hillsborough Castle and
Court Palace, Banqueting Kew Palace all groups must Voucher scheme clients wishing
House, Kensington Palace. reserve a time for entry. to set up a B2B login should
contact groupsandtraveltrade@
Three Palace pass hrp.org.uk
Tower of London, Hampton
Court Palace, Kensington Palace. Online Group Ticketing
Groups are now able to buy their
Central London pass tickets for the Tower of London,
Tower of London, Banqueting Hampton Court Palace and
House, Kensington Palace. Banqueting House through a
Royal Passes are exclusive to simplified online process via
group organisers and Travel Trade our website www.hrp.org.uk/
clients and cannot be purchased
at the palaces directly.
travel-trade. This new method
speeds up the booking
For details of pass prices contact procedure and offers discounts
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk
over the group gate rate.
6 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 7
Catering deals Retail
therapy
Our meal voucher scheme for groups Banqueting House
of 15 or more (20 or more for Whilst there are no on-site
catering facilities at the
Hillsborough Castle), provides great Banqueting House, close by
meal deal options across the palaces there are numerous restaurants,
cafes and bars.
throughout the day. Simply select the
Kensington Palace
one that best suits your itinerary!
Situated on the Orangery lawns,
overlooking the sunken garden,
Kew Palace
the Pavilion offers an alternative At Kew Palace groups can
on-site catering space whilst the arrange refreshments with
The Tower of London Hampton Court Palace Orangery undergoes restoration Kew Gardens caterers by calling
New Armouries Café Tiltyard Café and rebuilding work. +44 (0) 20 8332 5186.
Option 1 – Morning tea or coffee Option 1 – Morning tea or coffee Breakfast
Served before 11.00hrs including a Served before 12.00hrs including a Before 11.30hrs Hillsborough Castle
freshly baked muffin or pastry. freshly baked muffin or pastry. Start the day with a ‘Full English’ –
£6.00 per person £6.00 per person streaky bacon, field mushroom, vine The new self-service restaurant
tomatoes, sausage, black pudding and set within the Visitor Welcome
Option 2 – Light lunch Option 2 – Light lunch scrambled eggs, including a choice of centre will offer groups of
A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic tea or coffee.
bread or a freshly made sandwich, bread or a freshly made sandwich, £11 per person
20 or more an opportunity to
both with a choice of non-alcoholic both with a choice of non-alcoholic pre-book morning teas and Whether inspired by the iconic Visitors can also select products
drink and a cake or dessert. drink and a slice of cake. Morning Cream Tea
traditional afternoon teas. Lunch black ravens or the legendary from our in-store tablets and have
£9.95 per person £9.95 per person Before 12:00hrs
Orange scented and currant scones bookings will also be possible Royal Beasts at the Tower of gifts shipped direct to home.
Option 3 – Hot lunch Option 3 – Hot lunch served with Cornish clotted cream depending on the time year. London, by the stunning gardens
Main course dish served from the Main course dish served from and English strawberry jam. Served Don’t forget our full range
hot counter with a dessert pot or our hot counter and a dessert pot Morning Cream Tea at Hampton Court Palace or the
with a range of loose leaf teas and of palace inspired gifts can
slice of cake and a choice of or slice of cake with a choice of tisanes or coffee. A choice of teas or coffee served with sumptuous ceilings and interiors
non-alcoholic drink. non-alcoholic drink. homemade scones, cream and jam. be purchased online at
£6.50 per person at Kensington Palace and
£16.50 per person £16.50 per person £6.95 per person www.historicroyalpalaces.com
Afternoon Tea Banqueting House, our palaces
Option 4 – Traditional Cream Tea Option 4 – Traditional Cream Tea A selection of sandwiches, an orange Traditional Afternoon Tea provide a unique shopping
A delicious homemade scone with A delicious homemade scone with A choice of teas or coffee served with
scented scone served with Cornish
a selection of sandwiches, homemade
opportunity for your clients.
strawberry jam and clotted cream and strawberry jam and clotted cream and clotted cream and English strawberry
your choice of tea or coffee. your choice of tea or coffee. jam and a selection of dainty pastries scones with cream and jam and Therefore, while planning your
£6.25 per person £6.25 per person served with a range of loose-leaf teas delightful pastries.
£17.50 per person itineraries, make sure to allow
Contact details The Snug and tisanes or coffee.
£19.95 per person time for a visit to our royal shops
Tower of London Situated within the Tiltyard Cafe, the Lunch
tol@ampersandcatering.co.uk Snug is a cosy area perfect for groups Group lunch options are also available, where we offer a wide selection
Lunch
of up to 25 people to enjoy a morning Group lunch options are also available, please contact us to confirm of chinaware, jewellery, toys,
coffee or afternoon tea. please contact our caterers to discuss availability and discuss your clothing, accessories and much
requirements.
Our caterers Ampersand will be your requirements. more; all of which would make a
happy to discuss your group’s Contact details Contact details perfect souvenir of your clients’
requirements, contact them directly Kensington Palace Hillsborough Castle trip as well as a great gift for their
for further details. +44 (0) 20 3166 6112 +44 (0)20 3166 6000
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk friends and family back home.
Contact details kp@ampersandcatering.co.uk
Hampton Court Palace Contact our retail team on
hcp@ampersandcatering.co.uk shop@hrp.org.uk to discuss
delivery and discount rates for
bulk purchases.
8 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 9
Tower of
This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site has
almost 1000 years of intriguing tales to tell.
Meet the Yeoman Warders, marvel at the
fabulous finery of the Crown Jewels and
London
discover an unrivalled collection of royal arms
and armour in the iconic White Tower. Explore
all the roles this impressive building has had to
play throughout the centuries – from medieval
palace and fortress to infamous prison and
execution site.
10 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 11
Must see attractions
Medieval Palace
Once a surprisingly comfortable
royal home here you will enter
Key the rooms of Edward I and
exhibition discover life in the opulence
Yeoman Warders Crown Jewels 2019 and colour of a medieval
royal residence.
Yeoman Warders better known The breath-taking world
as the Beefeaters, entertain the famous collection of fabulous
thousands of visitors that come finery and regalia – discover
to the Tower throughout the gloriously ornate intricately Bloody Tower
year with their guided tours and made Crown Jewels and learn
immense knowledge of this how they have inspired acts of Explore the most infamous
ancient palace and fortress. greed, violence and even prison at the Tower of London
spawned stories of evil curses. and the intriguing stories that
inspired the name ‘Bloody
Tower’. Discover the stories of
the Princes in the Tower and Sir
Walter Raleigh, a favourite of
Royal Beasts Elizabeth I, who spent 13 years The Ravens Fortress and
Explore the tales of the many as a prisoner during the reign
exotic animals kept at the Tower, of James I. One of the most famous sights battlements
at the Tower, legend has it that if
from lions, tigers, to elephants Enjoy great views over modern
White Tower and alligators, in the Royal
they ever leave the Tower, the
London and the river Thames
kingdom will fall! The birds all
The White Tower is an enduring Beasts exhibition at the Tower of from atop the walls. Groups can
have names and very different
icon of the London skyline, London. Discover the polar bear explore more of the Tower’s
characters, find out who’s who
albeit nowadays dwarfed by, who fished in the Thames for his battlements giving a sense of
next to their new lodgings on
and in contrast to the modern lunch, the ostrich who ate nails what it would have been like to
the South Lawn.
city. This striking historic and many other surprising defend the Tower against
building dating back to 1075 stories. Experience the sights, potential attackers. Along the
today houses the Line of Kings, sounds, and even smells of the route enjoy exhibitions
displaying royal armour, life- animals through interactive highlighting aspects of the
sized wooden horses and displays and find out what Tower’s past, including the role
figures of kings throughout happened when the royal the Duke of Wellington played
the centuries. beasts escaped... whilst Constable of the Tower.
12 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 13
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Recommended Royal Beasts Booking memorable visit by booking a
visit time
20 minutes
Book your group online and save
guided tour or private visit
et ahead of the
G Medieval Palace
at www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade.
We suggest at least 3 hours 20 minutes Opening Audio Guides
crowd! A morning visit For any assistance with your
avoids the crowds in Bloody Tower
White Tower including
Line of Kings 15 minutes
booking requirements, please
call +44 (0) 20 3166 6000 or
Ceremony
peak summer months. Groups of 15 or more can
40 minutes Fortress and battlements email booking.confirmations@ Arrive at 08.45hrs to be
preorder our audio guides at a
re-booked groups
P Crown Jewels 40 minutes hrp.org.uk. greeted by a Yeoman Warder
discounted price of £3.50 per
and invited inside the Tower
can witness the 40 minutes Yeoman Warder tour person. Guides can be booked
Opening Ceremony 45 minutes Opening times just before public opening to
by contacting towergroups@
witness the Military Guard
from 08.45 Tues-Sat, Summer acoustiguide.co.uk and can be
escort the Chief Yeoman
01 March to 31 October collected at the entrance.
see the military guard Warder along Water Lane to
opening the Tower for
Admission prices Tuesday to Saturday open the gates for all the
01 March 2019 – 29 February 2020 09.00 – 18.00 visitors waiting outside!
Private viewing of
the day’s visitors.
Individual Group Gate Group Online
Sunday and Monday
10.00 to 18.00
Available Tuesday – Saturday, the Crown Jewels
he Ceremony of the
T no additional charge.
Available in the morning
Last admission 17.00
Word takes place Adult £27.50 £25.30 £23.47 from 08.15hrs experience the
outside the Waterloo Concession £21.50 £19.80 £18.34 Winter Group Welcome stunning regalia away from
Block daily at 14.45. Child £13.10 £12.00 £11.12
01 November to 29 February Talks the crowds. Price based on a
Tuesday to Saturday minimum 15 people, from
See the inspection of Family 2 adults £69.90 09.00 – 17.00 Book a 15-minute welcome talk
£80 per person plus VAT,
the military guard and Sunday and Monday for your group. A choice of a
maximum 150, advanced
Family 1 adult £49.40
collection of the secret 10.00 to 17.00 Yeoman Warder or Coins &
payment required.
word of the day. Last admission 16.00 Kings warden to meet your
group and delight them with
Key Closed 24, 25, 26 December Evening Tours
ave time in
S Catering and 01 January tales of the Tower or the Royal
your itinerary by
facility
Mint at the Tower. From £61.50 Experience the Tower in a
pre-booking Meal Deal
Shops
Coach Parks
Coach parking inc VAT per group, availability different light. Meet your
varies season to season. Yeoman Warder at 20.30hrs
catering vouchers. Bureau de A 24-hour coach park with for an hour long tour around
change
16 bays (height restriction the Fortress before
ackage your group
P Toilets:
4.7m/15’5”) is located in Lower
Gentleman experiencing the ancient
visits with guidebooks Toilets: Thames Street. Coaches can Ceremony of the Keys. The
and take advantage Ladies set-down or pick-up passengers cost is £35 per person plus
of bulk buying in
Toilets:
Disabled
free of charge providing they VAT for a minimum of 20,
remain no longer than 15 minutes.
advance. P
Overground
train line The charge is £10 per hour.
maximum 50 people, advance
payment required.
Underground Overnight parking between
Ravens train line
17.00 and 09.00 is £25. Contact
car.parks@cityoflondon.co.uk
Entrance
(Prices correct at time of going
to press).
Exit Group catering
Please see pages 6 and 7 for
catering information.
14 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 15
Hampton
Hampton Court Palace is an awe-inspiring
and flamboyant showcase for kingship.
Its vast and never ending vistas,
courtyards, gardens and parkland, along
Court Palace
with its magnificent State Apartments,
rivalling the great palaces of Europe,
are designed to impress.
16 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 17
Must see attractions
King William III The Maze
State Apartments Commissioned around 1700 by
William III, this large and
A grand and lavishly laid out
complex maze is one of the
collection of state apartments
oldest surviving hedge mazes in
built by the new monarchs.
the country and covers a third of
Walk through the rooms of this
an acre – make sure your groups
elegant part of the palace and
have their wits about them if
imagine the beautifully dressed
they choose to brave it!
courtiers revelling in the politics
and gossip of court life. This is
Key the best place to view the Cumberland Privy
exhibition
2019
magnificent King’s Privy Garden. Art Gallery Garden The Magic Garden
Formerly an apartment The Privy Garden is one of the
Henry VIII’s Henry VIII’s belonging to the Duke of most accurately reconstructed
This exciting garden is a self-
contained family focused walled
Kitchens Apartments Queen’s Cumberland the ‘art’ rooms of gardens at Hampton Court area with every feature
the palace are the home to because so much was recorded
Hampton Court Palace’s Walk in the footsteps of Apartments masterpieces from the Royal about the original 1702 garden.
designed to be climbed upon,
newly re-presented Tudor England’s most famous King including a jousting arena, five
Climb the Queen’s Staircase Collection. Groups can discover The beautiful geometry of the tiltyard towers and a fire
Kitchens, recreate the and his six wives. Lavishly to discover the impressively the stories behind the artworks garden seen against the
well-oiled machine that presented the apartments breathing dragon. With a focus
decorated grand State so avidly collected by the 17th stunning palace facade is to engage children and families
powered Henry VIII’s include Henry’s Great Hall, the Apartments originally built and 18th century monarchs. a site not to be missed.
magnificent court. Immerse Great Watching Chamber, the in history, this amazing, larger
for Queen Mary II, redecorated than life outdoor attraction is a
yourself in a bygone era with Council Chamber and the by Queen Anne and occupied
grand displays of food, processional route, allegedly perfect addition for groups
by George II and Queen Caroline with children!
authentic smells, the heat of haunted by Catherine Howard, as regents, the last monarchs to Mantegna’s Georgian
the fireplaces, and the sounds Henry’s fifth wife. live at Hampton Court Palace.
of the busy kitchen staff. Triumphs of Kitchen Garden
Caesar See how the fruit, flowers and
vegetables were planted,
Young Brought to England by King
tended and harvested for the
Charles I these spectacular
Henry VIII’s Story frescoes have been at Hampton
kings table in the 18th century
Meet the pin-up prince – explore in this enormous garden, full
Court Palace since 1630.
the relationship between Henry of produce.
and his first wife, Katherine of
Aragon and Cardinal Wolsey
with some of the most
spectacular Tudor paintings
The Great Vine
from the Royal Collection. Planted by Lancelot Capability
Brown in 1768, this is the oldest
vine in the world. See the many
bunches of grapes develop
through the summer ready
for harvest in late August,
early September.18 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 19
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Recommended Mantegna’s Triumphs Opening memorable visit by booking a
visit time
of Caesar 20 minutes
times guided tour or private visit
nhance your group
E William III’s Apartments
We suggest at least 4 hours 40 minutes Summer
visit by booking a Mid-March to mid-October
Palace accredited Rooftop Tours
Henry VIII’s Apartments Queen’s State Apartments
Palace Accredited Daily 10.00 – 18.00 Tour Guides Be captivated by history with
40 minutes 30 minutes
Guide for a tour of the Last admission 17.00 this privileged view of the
Henry VIII’s Kitchens Chocolate Kitchen Our team of accredited tour
palace and gardens. 15 minutes Winter guides can enhance your group
palace and gardens – and see if
40 minutes you can spot London’s Shard
Mid October to mid-March visit providing introductory or
ave time in your
S Young Henry VIII’s Story Cumberland Art Gallery building in the distance.
30 minutes Daily 10.00 – 16.30 in-depth tours of the palace
itinerary by pre- 30 minutes
Last admission 15.30 and gardens. Tours can be lead
Explore the history of the
booking Meal Deal The Gardens 1 hour palace from the roof. £1000
in costume and can be booked
Closed 24, 25, 26 December plus VAT per group (maximum
catering vouchers. The Maze It depends....... for an hour and a half starting
30 people), including private
at £132 per group.
equest your
R Booking guide and your choice of
‘Today’s Programme’
Admission prices Morning breakfast, light lunch or
Book your group online and
01 March 2019 – 29 February 2020 afternoon tea in a private
leaflet in advance by save at www.hrp.org.uk/ Courtyard and apartment.
emailing groupsand Individual Group Gate Group Online travel-trade. For any assistance
traveltrade@hrp.org.uk with your booking requirements, Cloisters Tours Audio Guides
Adult £23.70 £21.80 £20.24 please call +44 (0) 20 3166
to ensure your group 6000 or email booking.
From 09.30hrs your group
doesn’t miss a thing Concession £18.90 £17.40 £16.15 gets an early preview to the
confirmations@hrp.org.uk. Available free of charge, digital
Child £11.90 £10.95 £10.17 waking palace on a tour with
during their day-out. our State Apartment Warders
audio guides can be collected
Family 2 adults £59.10 Coach parking starting in the gardens then
from the Information Centre in
ampton Court Station
H Base Court, providing a user
Family 1 adult £42.10 Coach parking is available free weaving through the palace
is in zone 6 and can be courtyards. Compare the Tudor
friendly, modern way to explore
of charge for 8 coaches on
accessed using a Hampton Court Green or at a and Baroque architecture and
our stunning palace.
Transport for London Key
Catering cost of £25 per day on marvel at the grand King’s and
zone 6 Travelcard or a facility
weekdays, £15 per day on Queen’s staircases. £132 inc
prepaid Oyster card Shops
Coach Parks
weekends and Bank Holidays VAT per group plus admission,
– see www.tfl.gov.uk at the coach park next to 35 people per warder.
Bureau de change
Hampton Court Railway Station.
for more information. Toilets:
Gentleman (Prices correct at time of
Toilets:
oach parking is free
C Ladies going to press).
on Hampton Court Toilets:
Green, a 15-minute
Disabled
Overground train line
Group catering
walk from the main Please see pages 6 and 7 for
catering information.
entrance of the palace.
Coach parking is also Tiltyard Cafe
available at Hampton Georgian Kitchen Garden
Court Station for
a charge.20 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 21
Banqueting
This revolutionary building was created for
court entertainments, so imagine yourself as
part of the dazzling company of courtiers who
attended the exuberant court masques and
House
danced and drank beneath the magnificent
Rubens-painted ceiling. But spare a thought
for Charles I, who in 1649 was beheaded
outside on a scaffold to the ‘dismal, universal
groan’ of the crowd; these glorious paintings
were one of his last sights on earth.22 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 23
Must see attractions
Rubens ceiling
paintings
Marvel at the skill and
craftsmanship of the
magnificent Rubens ceiling
paintings, commissioned by
Charles I in 1629 to celebrate
the glorification of his father
James I. These are the only
Rubens paintings to remain in
their original location and were
unveiled at the Banqueting
House in 1635.
The story of
Admire the Whitehall Palace
architecture Explore the full story of
Whitehall Palace, once the
Admire the magnificent Sovereign’s main residence
architecture of the Banqueting and the largest palace in
House, which was built and Europe told by DVD
designed by the renowned 17th presentation in the Undercroft.
century architect, Inigo Jones.
Portrait of Inigo Jones24 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 25
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Recommended Last admission 12.30 memorable visit by booking a
visit time
(open until 17.00 when no guided tour or private visit
evening events scheduled).
nsure to pre-book
E
We suggest 1 hour.
your group entry time Closed 24, 25 and 26 December, Palace tour Hidden History
01 January and all Thursdays
slot, so as not to be guides Talks
disappointed by an
Opening times throughout the year.
Year round Check afternoon opening These fascinating tours are led Hidden History Talks run most
afternoon closure. by one of our expert guides days at 11.30hrs, subject to
Daily (except Thursdays) at www.hrp.org.uk/
and provide a more in-depth availability of staff and are free
ime your visit to
T 10.00 – 13.00hrs BanquetingHouse/
planyourvisit/openingtimes account of Banqueting House’s of charge. They are the perfect
coincide with a incredible history. Tours last way to bring the history of this
Hidden History talk at approximately 1 hour, extraordinary building to life.
11.30hrs with our expert availability and rates
palace team. Admission prices on request. The Handling
ook a guided tour,
B 01 March 2019 – 29 February 2020
Audio Guides Collection
available on request Individual Group Gate Group Online Experience the thrill of holding
with our accredited Adult £7.00 £6.45 £5.99 an authentic piece of history in
guides to get a greater Discover the incredible history your hands, whilst learning
Concession £6.00 £5.50 £5.13 more about it from an expert.
insight of this fantastic of Whitehall Palace with our
Child Free Free Free free audio guides. Call or email The handling collection runs at
building for your weekends and school holidays
in advance to reserve guides
group’s visit. Booking for your group. subject to availability of staff.
Key
eing a short visit, the
B Catering Book your group online and save
Banqueting House is facility
Shops
at www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
ideal to package with Coach Parks
For any assistance with your
other nearby booking requirements, please
Bureau de
call +44 (0) 20 3166 6000 or
attractions such as the change
Toilets: email booking.confirmations@
Household Cavalry Gentleman
hrp.org.uk
Museum, just across Toilets:
Ladies
the road, the National Toilets: Coach parking
Gallery or National Disabled
There are 12 metered coach
Overground
Portrait Gallery at train line
bays along the Victoria
Trafalgar Square, and Underground
train line Embankment. Mon-Fri £4.00
why not take a break in
Pier
per hour 08.30 - 18.30hrs then
er
the Café in the Crypt at free until midnight. Sat £4.00
Westminst
St Martin-in-the- Fields. per hour 08.30 – 13.30hrs then
free until midnight. Free on
Churchill
Sunday. (Details correct at time
of going to press).26 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 27
Kensington
A palace of secret stories and public lives, Kensington
Palace, situated in beautiful parkland in the centre
of London, was designed as a royal residence for
William III & Mary II by Sir Christopher Wren. More
Palace
recently, it has been the official residence to Princess
Margaret, Diana Princess of Wales, and is currently
home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and
Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The recently renovated
visitor routes reveal the surprising stories of many of
the palace’s inhabitants over the centuries.28 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 29
Must see attractions
Key
Victoria – Woman exhibition
and crown 2019
Opens 24 may 2019
Continue the story in our temporary
exhibition in the Piggot Galleries that
explores Victoria’s public and private
image, her role as Queen, Wife and
Mother. This intriguing story reveals
Victoria – how her 9 children and 42
Grandchildren extended her influence
A royal childhood across Europe and the Empire.
Opens 24 May 2019
In the very rooms that Queen
Victoria grew up in, discover
a surprisingly playful, creative Palace Gardens
and inventive child that grew into
the women who would one day The beautifully transformed
rule over the largest empire the gardens reconnect the
world had ever known. building with the landscape
King’s State Queen’s State of Kensington Gardens
providing picturesque walks
Apartments Apartments and fantastic vistas. Our
Climb the magnificent King’s Explore the small intimate garden history tours are also
Staircase where Georgian rooms where the great tale available throughout the
courtiers peer down on you, of the Stuart dynasty reaches summer months for
marvel at the impressively its tragic conclusion. pre-booked groups.
decorated rooms and discover
the fashionable world of the
curious court of George II and
Queen Caroline.
Victorian Tiaras
From 24 May 2019
Returning is the glittering suite of
gems specially commissioned for
Victoria by her beloved Albert,
set to be part of Victoria – A royal
childhood at Kensington Palace.
The display includes the
magnificent diamond and
emerald diadem, emerald
necklace, earrings and brooch.30 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 31
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Recommended Opening times memorable visit by booking a
visit time Summer
guided tour or private visit
Groups must book a 01 March to 31 October
We suggest 2 hours
time slot for entry – you 10.00 – 18.00hrs
will be welcomed by Victoria exhibitions Last admission 17.00hrs
one of our Palace 1 hour
Winter
Explainers. Kings State Apartments 01 November to 29 February
30 minutes 10.00 – 16.00hrs
Kensington Palace is a Last admission 15.00hrs.
Queens State Apartments
10-15 minute walk from 20 minutes Closed 24, 25, 26 December
the coach park on
Palace Gardens Booking
Bayswater Road – 30 minutes
allow enough time for Group entry to Kensington
your group to arrive on Admission prices Palace must be booked in
time at the entrance. advance. Call +44 (0) 20 3166
01 March 2019 – 29 February 2020 6000 or email booking.
Enhance your group Individual Group gate Group online confirmations@hrp.org.uk
visit and include
refreshments in The
Adult £19.50 £17.95 £16.63 Coach parking
Pavilion. Delicious Concession £15.50 £14.25 £13.21 There is a coach park north of
brunches, lunches Child £9.70 £8.90 £8.27 the palace on Bayswater Road.
and afternoon teas Family 2 adults £48.80 Open 24 hours, it costs £38 for
up to 12 hours, 12-24 hours £48,
can be arranged for Family 1 adult £36.20 £10 fee if booking in advance.
pre-booked groups. Pay and display, or pay by
Take a stroll around the phone. Contact Euro Carparks
Key
020 7563 3000. Please allow
palace grounds in the Catering
facility 10-15 minutes for groups to
spring or summer to
view the beautiful
Shops walk through Kensington Private Morning Garden History
Coach Parks Gardens to the palace entrance.
planting in the Sunken Bureau de change For coaches with less able Tours Tours
Garden in its full glory. The Pavilion Toilets:
Gentleman
passengers, please contact Join one of our Palace Led by our enthusiastic and
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org. Explainers at 9.00hrs for a highly trained volunteers,
Toilets:
Sunken Garden
Ladies uk for closer drop-off fascinating guided tour, which these tours bring a host of
Toilets: arrangements. takes place an hour before the intriguing and surprising
Disabled
palace opens. After the tour, stories of the gardens to life.
Underground train line
Group catering discover more of the palace at Available at no additional cost
Please see pages 6 and 7 for leisure as it opens to the to palace admission, the tours
catering information. public from 10.00hrs. This take place from May to
unique experience costs September on Tuesdays,
£500 plus VAT for up to 10 Thursdays and Saturdays at
guests, thereafter £50 per 12.00hrs and 14.00hrs, subject
person plus VAT, maximum to availability of volunteers on
30 per tour. the day.32 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 33
Kew Palace
This intimate palace brings to life the joys and
sorrows of George III and his family in detail,
from his children’s lives to his own hardships.
Fascinating personal artefacts and art works
adorn the authentically recreated Georgian
rooms in which the stories unfold. Wander
through the eerie upper floor, left untouched
for centuries and discover the eating habits of
the royal household in the Royal Kitchens.34 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 35
Must see attractions
Key
Royal Kitchens exhibition
at Kew Life cast of
2019
Discover the ingredients and
The Great
methods used to prepare food
George III Pagoda at Kew
for the royal table and enter the A wax facial life-cast of The Great Pagoda within
Clerk of the Kitchens office to George III created by Madame Kew Gardens is open for
find out what was ordered each Tussaud herself. those brave enough to take
Queen’s Boudoir Princess’s day in the re-created ledger. its 253 steps to the top!
In this well-appointed room Bedroom Enjoy spectacular views of
the Queen and her London and look out for the
companions would spend
George III’s daughter Princess Queen Charlotte’s 80 specially designed
Elizabeth decorated her
hours at ‘women’s work’, such
bedroom in the latest styles of
cottage rooftop dragons.
as needlework, spinning wool Situated in Kew Gardens, and
the day. Come and decide
and knotting. open at weekends in the
what you make of her interior
design skills! View her restored summer months this is where
bedroom alongside the the royal family enjoyed picnics
unrestored rooms of other and tea parties during long
The King’s princesses from that era, summer walks through the
Dining Room including original features. gardens. Built as a country
retreat, and not a residence
Discover what some guests this is a perfect example of
had to say about the King’s historic royals at play, and
hospitality. relaxing behind closed doors.36 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 37
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Recommended Opening times memorable visit by booking a
visit time Kew Palace
guided tour or private visit
re-book your group
P 4 April – 29 September 2019
4 hours
admission time slot for Daily 10.30 – 17.30hrs, Palace and Curious Kew
Palace
Kew Palace when last admission 17.00hrs kitchens tours evening tours
1 hour
booking Kew Gardens The Royal Kitchens
Royal kitchens Intimate daytime tours are Starting with a glass of wine at
as the palace can get 40 mins
4 April – 29 September 2019 available at the palace and 18.30, enjoy a tour of this
very busy. Daily 10.30 – 17.30hrs, include the Royal Kitchens with charming royal palace,
Queen Charlotte’s cottage last admission 17.00hrs
30 mins our costumed palace experts, including the Royal Kitchens.
or a personally
F Queen Charlotte’s Cottage £6 per person. £15 per person plus VAT
(summer weekends only)
guided tour of the Weekends and Bank Holidays minimum 10, maximum 30.
palace, book one Kew Gardens
throughout the summer
2 hours
of our costumed 11.00 – 16.00hrs.
The Great Pagoda
palace experts for The Great Pagoda
30 mins
£6 per person. 4 April – 29 September 2019
on’t forget to visit
D Admission prices Daily 10.30 – 17.30hrs,
last admission 17.00hrs
Queen Charlotte’s 01 March 2019 – 29 February 2020
Kew Gardens
Cottage nestled in the Kew Palace, the Royal Kitchens and Queen Charlotte’s
Open daily from 10.00.
bluebell woods. Cottage are included during opening season in admission
Please check www.kew.org
to Kew Gardens. Please visit www.kew.org or contact
for closing times.
ay a visit to the newly
P groups@kew.org for prices and bookings.
restored Great Pagoda Great Pagoda Booking
and marvel at the 04 April 2019 – 29 September 2019 To pre-book your joint visit to
beautiful carved Adult: £4.50, Child: £3.00 Kew Gardens and Kew Palace
dragons, which return and Royal Kitchens contact
to adorn the rooves Key groups@kew.org or call
for the first time Catering +44 (0) 20 8332 5648.
since 1784. facility
Shops Coach parking
Coach Parks
Groups can drop off and pick
Bureau de change
ELIZABETH GATE
Toilets: up at the Elizabeth Gate at
Gentleman Kew Green. Coach parking is
free of charge on Kew Road
The Great Pagoda
Toilets:
Ladies
Toilets:
after 10.00hrs.
Disabled
Underground train line Group catering
S
EN
Groups can arrange
RD
GA
refreshments with the caterers
W
KE
at Kew Gardens by calling
+44 (0) 20 8332 5186.
LONDON OVERGROUND38 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 39
Hillsborough
New for 2019 – Hillsborough Castle and
Gardens, the official residence of the Royal
Family in Northern Ireland, will fully open from
April 2019 following an investment of £16m in
Castle
exquisite new visitor facilities, beautifully
restored and refreshed interiors and glorious
gardens to explore year round.40 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 41
Must see attractions
Castle tour
Discover stories of celebration,
entertainment, diplomacy,
and negotiation as our
expert Explainers guide you
through a 45-minute tour
of Hillsborough Castle’s
fascinating history and
stunning State Rooms.
Hillsborough The Walled
State Rooms Castle Gardens Garden
During your castle tour you will Wander at leisure through the The Walled Garden dates back
be introduced to all the State historic gardens, which were to the 18th Century and is a large,
Rooms that make up this developed from the 1760s four-acre site historically used to
elegant Georgian home; onwards. Explore intriguing produce fruit, vegetables and
including the grand Throne contrasts between ornate flowers for the house. Restored
Room, relaxing State Drawing formal gardens, woodland and and represented explore this
Room, Lady Grey’s Study, meadows. Keep an eye out for beautiful working and productive
State Dining Room, Red Room specimen trees and rare plants garden, complete with dipping
and Stair Hall. as you explore the grounds. pond, crop rotations, seasonal
produce, potting sheds,
herbaceous borders and an
apple orchard.42 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 43
Plan your visit...
Top tips Admission prices Recommended
Castle Tour (including Garden admission) visit time
ll Castle Tours
A
01 March 2019 – 29 February 2020 2 hours
must be pre-booked, Individual Group gate Group online
contact booking. Guided Castle tour
Adult £12.70 £11.70 £10.83 45 minutes
confirmations@hrp.
org.uk to secure your Concession £10.20 £9.40 £8.65 Garden visit
1 hour, but there’s lots to explore,
group tour. Child £6.35 £5.85 £5.42
stay as long as you like!
Family 2 adults £31.80
ur new Coach Park
O
is located close to the Family 1 adult £22.20 Opening times
new Welcome Centre Gardens only admission Pre-booked group Castle tours
where you’ll find toilets, 01 March 2019 – 29 February 2020 1 March 2019 – 29 February
2020
ticketing and a café Individual Group gate Group online
Available daily on request
and shop. Ensure Adult £8.90 £8.20 £7.60
you allow enough time Public guided tours
Concession £7.10 £6.50 £5.98
April 2019 – September 2019
in your itinerary for Child £4.45 £4.10 £3.80 10.00 – 16.00hrs
your group to enjoy
Family 2 adults £15.60 October 2019 – February 2020
this area too.
Family 1 adult £22.30 Wednesday – Sunday
ust 30 minutes from
J 10.00 – 15.00hrs (on the hour)
Belfast or an hour and Gardens Admission
a half from Dublin on March – September 2019 Group bookings Access from
the main road between 09.30 – 17.00hrs
Group bookings for castle and Welcome Centre
Key
the two cities, include October 2019 – February 2020 garden tours must be made at
Hillsborough as a
Catering
facility 09.30hrs – 16.00hrs least 48 hours in advance,
to Castle
convenient stop-off on Car Park Shops
Please note last admission to the minimum 20 people. For our visitors who require
your itinerary. Coach Parks
gardens is 1 hour before closing. mobility assistance or for those
To book your castle or gardens
Lake Toilets: who are time restricted, a
Gentleman tour call +44 (0)20 3166 6000
Welcome Centre three-carriage people-mover
Toilets: or email booking.
Ladies with hydraulic wheelchair
confirmations@hrp.org.uk
access will ensure visitors can
Walled Garden travel quickly and easily
Entrance
Coach Parking between the upper and lower
Lost Garden
The new coach park has direct end of the estate, with a journey
Exit to Village
Tiltyard Cafe from access from the A1 dual time of approximately five
Georgian Kitchen Garden carriageway ensuring that minutes. The castle itself is fully
Castle Tour access to Hillsborough Castle wheelchair accessible.
entrance Courthouse
and Gardens is as easy as
Garden Terraces
possible for group and coach
operators. There are 12 coach
parking spaces free of charge
on a first come first served basis
for castle and gardens visitors.44 hrp.org.uk
Get social with us!
Historic Royal Palaces have even Contact details
more ways for you to access regular Buy tickets for 15 or more people
updates and to take part in T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6000
conversations about the past, E: booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk
present and future of our palaces, Book your groups online and save at
our work and your group visits. www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
Find out more about the palaces
Join our online www.hrp.org.uk
communities... Ask the Travel Trade Team
For historical insights, forthcoming events and T: + 44 (0) 20 3166 6311
behind-the-scenes access to the palaces and the E: groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk
people that tell their stories, like us on Facebook, Images of the palaces
follow us on Twitter, join our Linked In group or www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
watch our videos on YouTube.
Souvenirs and shopping
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6848
E: shop@hrp.org.uk
www.historicroyalpalaces.com
Corporate gifts:
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6857
E: corpgifts@hrp.org.uk
Parties and events
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6399
E: events@hrp.org.uk
www.hrp.org.uk/hireavenue
Terms and conditions escorted by adults/ seniors to the ratio of 1-6 for up exercised in the compilation of this manual, HRP
Pricing validity is from 01 March 2019 to to 6 years old and 1-10 for 7-16 years at all palaces. or any individual palace cannot be held liable for
29 February 2020. Historic Royal Palaces retain Groups of children booking the standard rates any information that is inaccurate or
the right to adjust prices during this period, should be escorted adults/seniors to the ratio of subsequently changed.
should circumstances dictate. 1-15 for 6 years and up. Support materials (which are generally available
Payment may be made by cash, major credit cards It should be noted that Historic Royal Palaces free of charge) such as leaflets and images are
(excluding Diners Card) and via the Agency (HRP), or any individual palace, may at any time Crown Copyright and should only be used for the
Voucher Scheme. alter the opening times and /or availability of purpose stated and not altered in any way without
access to any palace. In the event of palace closure express written agreement from HRP.
A child is defined as aged between 5 years and any pre-paid groups will receive a full refund of
15 years old. Children visiting the Magic Garden Historic Royal Palaces is a registered charity
monies paid, but neither HRP nor any individual (number 1068852)
over the age of 3 will be charged. Young persons palace will be liable for any consequential loss
16-18 years may obtain concessionary admission. arising from such closure. HRP or any individual
Senior citizens (65 and over) are admitted at the palace reserve the right to withdraw from public
concessionary rate. Groups of children booking our access any route, room or area within a palace
Education sessions and admissions should be or its grounds without notice. Whilst every care isHillsborough Castle www.hrp.org.uk
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