Exterior of Kensington PalaceImage 1 of 5

The King's Gallery at Kensington PalaceImage 2 of 5 | Historic Royal Palaces

Interior at Kensington PalaceImage 3 of 5 | Historic Royal Palaces

The King's Apartments at Kensington PalaceImage 4 of 5 | Historic Royal Palaces

The Stone Hall at Kensington PalaceImage 5 of 5 | Historic Royal Palaces

 

 

 

 

 

Overview

The birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria, this elegant 17th-century palace lies in the heart of Kensington, surrounded by gardens and tucked away from the bustle of the high street.

The palace has recently reopened after a £12-million renovation project, and has been reorganised into a number of permanent exhibitions arranged as journeys through different centuries of royal life.

The first of these new routes focuses on the lives of William & Mary, who commissioned Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor to design the building. The second route relates to the later occupancy of George II, whose court was centred at the palace, while the third highlights Victoria and Albert's time there.

A new exhibition of dresses worn by Diana, Princess of Wales, including works by the designer Bruce Oldfield, will also be on display, bringing the story of the building's royal residents into living memory.

Queen Victoria was born and grew up in Kensington Palace. It was here that she first found out she was to be Queen, and where she met her future husband, Albert. Later, in the 20th century, princesses Margaret and Diana both spent time living at the Palace.

The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection has been housed at Kensington Palace since 1982.

Art Funded works

We helped the palace acquire two ‘court mantuas’ or 18th-century dresses designed for ladies attending court. They were both export-stopped due to their historical significance. One is made by Giacomo Herman and was bought for the Palace in 2006; the other is by an unknown British maker and was bought in 1995. 

Visitor information

The merchandise on offer at the Kensington Palace shop reflects the generations of royal women that have influenced the development of the palace and includes exclusively designed china and exquisite lace accessories.

The Orangery Restaurant has a fine selection of teas and provides morning coffee, light lunches, afternoon tea and al fresco dining on the terrace. Cakes, pastries and a selection of wines and Historic Royal Palace beers are also on offer. Children are welcome and can take a special children’s version of afternoon tea.