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Home , Hampton Court Palace, Kew Gardens, Kew Palace, Tower of London

GROUP VISITS GUIDE

2021-2022 INTRODUCTION AND CONTENTS

We are a team of people who love and look a­fter six Treat your groups to over 900 years of drama, of the most wonderful in the world. devotion, secrets stories and royal intrigue at some We create space for spirits to stir and be stirred. We want of the greatest palaces ever built. Your visits will everyone to feel welcome and accepted. We tell stories follow in the footsteps of the great, good, devious about the monarchs you know and the lives you don’t. and dastardly, providing memories of a great day We let children explore and we set minds racing. out, your customers will want to return again We are a charity and your support gives the palaces a and again. future, for everyone. OF PAGE 8 This Group Visits Guide is designed to give organisers of group travel and travel industry professionals inspiration for excursions and days out and to make the process as seamless as possible. With so much to uncover at so many attractions, your only challenge is which to choose first! HAMPTON PAGE 14 COURT How to use this guide We have designed a helpful key to assist in the planning of your group visit and to ensure your customers have a fun packed day and make the most of their time PAGE 20 at the palaces. PALACE

Look out for these icons on the “Must see attractions” pages for each palace to best tailor your group’s experience. PALACE PAGE 26 THE ROYAL KITCHENS, THE GREAT , QUEEN CHARLOTTE’S Steps and uneven staircases COTTAGE

Wheelchair access HILLSBOROUGH PAGE 32 AND Youth groups – children, families, multigenerational friendly

Large groups – space for large BANQUETING PAGE 38 group visits HOUSE Small groups – suitable for groups up to 20 people at a time

Private tours available on request AT YOUR SERVICE PAGE 3 TICKETING OPTIONS PAGE 4 Gardens – activities for groups with CATERING PAGE 6 an interest in gardens GET SOCIAL WITH US PAGE 40

1 AT YOUR SERVICE

Historic Royal Palaces has a Sales Blue Badge Guides are given free Easy to get to Team to assist group organisers admission to escort their clients. For group visits, all palaces have in planning visits to the palaces Palace Explainers will be on hand coach parking or pick-up and as well as advising coach and tour to answer any questions your drop-off facilities. All the London operators with itinerary and clients may have. palaces can be reached by rail, excursion planning. underground and four palaces For further information, please contact by riverboat. Sales support [email protected] The Sales Team can help you with Accessibility all your arrangements for your Fanfare Our palaces welcome all visitors and group’s perfect day out including Published three times a year, Fanfare we try to ensure everyone’s visit is assistance with planning itineraries, is our newsletter with news on successful and enjoyable. Registered information on our group forthcoming exhibitions, seasonal disabled visitors are charged the ticketing options, dedicated group events and special tours to help you relevant ticket price and carers are ticket offices and on-site catering. plan your excursions. admitted free of charge. The sales team can also help you promote and sell your tours and Quick-Blast! As historical sites, our palaces do excursions with content, copy and News of last-minute offers and timely have uneven or cobbled surfaces images, which can be downloaded announcements of new exhibitions and narrow staircases in places. Full from hrp.org.uk/travel.trade. and events will be sent in our accessibility information including Quick-Blasts! wheelchair access and information Free admission on sign language tours can be found Free admission is given at all palaces Sign up here for Fanfare and on our website hrp.org.uk. to coach drivers and locally Quick-Blasts. registered Blue Badge Guides. Website Groups that include members of Added value Visit the dedicated group planning will avail of Group discounts apply to parties pages on the Historic Royal Palaces the group price as long as there are of 15 visitors or more and regular website, hrp.org.uk/travel-trade, for 15 people in total. Full members of interpretation events are included the latest information and help in Association of Group Travel in general admission. planning your itineraries and online Organisers (AGTO) are eligible for group booking. free admission when bringing a Money saving catering vouchers and group of at least 15 paying visitors. group menus are available in palace cafes. Guiding in the palaces Blue Badge and Accredited Guides Admission voucher scheme and can guide inside the Tower of account facilities for coach and tour London and Hampton Court operators upon application. Palace. No guiding is currently allowed inside due to space restrictions however

3 TICKETING OPTIONS

Historic Royal Palaces have Once booked, tickets are sent with Royal Pass developed group friendly ticket your confirmation email. For six or One ticket to over 900 years of royal options that allow easy access to less visitors, tickets can be presented history! the palaces for your customers on a mobile device, for more than six and simplified payment terms for visitors, tickets must be printed and This Travel Trade only, flexible volume Travel Trade suppliers. distributed to group members prior combination ticket offers unbeatable to arriving at the gate. value. The pass is valid for one year Online Group Ticketing from the date of issue for one visit Groups Organisers, coach and tour All tickets are scanned at the per valid palace, therefore giving operators can book their tickets point of entry, avoiding queuing the traveller flexibility to plan their for the , Hampton to exchange vouchers for palace own itinerary. Court Palace, Kensington Palace tickets and allowing more time for and and customers to enjoy the palaces. The Royal Pass gives the traveller Gardens via our website entry to the Tower of London, hrp.org.uk/travel-trade. Group rates Agency Voucher Scheme members and apply to orders for 15 tickets or more, can amend and cancel bookings Kensington Palace. payment by credit card is required up to the day of arrival. Payment at time of booking. Tickets are sent is required monthly for daily final This pass is exclusive to group with the confimation email. Tickets booking numbers in the B2B portal organisers and Travel Trade clients must be printed and distributed to for each day of that month. and cannot be purchased at the the group members in advance of palaces directly. arriving at the gate. Please contact groupsandtravel- [email protected] for registration and For details of pass prices contact Agency Voucher Scheme and User Manual details and criteria for [email protected]. B2B portal joining the Agency Voucher scheme. Members of the Historic Royal Palaces Agency Voucher Scheme must pre-book customers through the B2B portal. With a secure login, bookings can be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

All palaces operate on a timed admission basis, so you must reserve a date and time slot in advance. Details of opening and closing times and time slots are detailed on the palace pages in this guide.

4 CATERING DEALS RETAIL THERAPY

Our meal voucher scheme for HAMPTON COURT PALACE KENSINGTON PALACE groups of 15 or more (20 or more Café Situated on the , for Hillsborough Castle), provides Option 1 - Morning tea or coffee overlooking the sunken , the great meal deal options across before 12.00 Pavilion offers an alternative on-site the palaces throughout the day. including a freshly baked muffin catering space whilst the Orangery Simply select the one that best or pastry. undergoes restoration and rebuilding suits your itinerary! £6.00 per person work. TOWER OF LONDON Option 2 - Light lunch Breakfast before 11.30 New Armouries Café A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic Start the day with a ‘Full English’ – Option 1 - Morning tea or coffee bread or a freshly made sandwich, streaky bacon, field mushroom, before 11.00 both with a choice of non-alcoholic vine tomatoes, sausage, black Whilst there are no on-site catering including a freshly baked muffin drink and a slice of cake. pudding and scrambled eggs, facilities at the Banqueting House, or pastry. £10.50 per person including a choice of tea or coffee. close by there are numerous £6.00 per person £12.50 per person restaurants, cafes and bars. Option 3 - Hot lunch Option 2 - Light lunch Main course dish served from Morning Cream Tea before 12.00 A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic our hot counter and a dessert pot Orange scented and currant scones At Kew Palace groups can arrange bread or a freshly made sandwich, or slice of cake with a choice of served with Cornish clotted cream refreshments with Whether inspired by the iconic black Visitors can also select products from both with a choice of non-alcoholic non-alcoholic drink. and English strawberry jam. Served caterers by calling +44 (0) 20 8332 5186. ravens or the legendary Royal Beasts our in-store tablets and have gifts drink and a cake or dessert. £17.95 per person with a range of loose leaf teas and at the Tower of London, by the shipped direct to home. £10.50 per person tisanes or coffee. HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE stunning gardens at Hampton Court Option 4 - Traditional Cream Tea £6.50 per person AND GARDENS Palace or the sumptuous ceilings and Don’t forget our full range of Option 3 - Hot lunch A delicious homemade scone with Groups of 20 or more can enjoy a interiors at Kensington Palace, our palace inspired gifts can be Main course dish served from the strawberry jam and clotted cream Afternoon Tea range of catering offers in our new palaces provide a unique shopping purchased online at hot counter with a dessert pot and your choice of tea or coffee. A selection of sandwiches, an orange catering facilities located in the Wel- opportunity for your clients. www.historicroyalpalaces.com or slice of cake and a choice of £6.25 per person scented scone served with Cornish come Centre. From morning coffee non-alcoholic drink. clotted cream and English strawberry and tea, lunches and traditional Therefore, while planning your itin- £17.95 per person The Snug jam and a selection of dainty pastries afternoon teas, enhance your groups eraries, make sure to allow time for Situated within the Tiltyard Cafe, served with a range of loose-leaf teas visit and enquire with our caterers. a visit to our royal shops where we Option 4 - Traditional Cream Tea the Snug is a cosy area perfect for and tisanes or coffee. Contact details: offer a wide selection of chinaware, A delicious homemade scone with groups of up to 25 people to enjoy £19.95 per person Contact details jewellery, toys, clothing, accessories strawberry jam and clotted cream a morning coffee or afternoon tea. Hillsborough Castle and much more; all of which would and your choice of tea or coffee. Lunch +44 (0) 3166 6000 make a perfect souvenir of your £6.25 per person Our caterers Ampersand will be Group lunch options are also [email protected] clients’ trip as well as a great gift for happy to discuss your group’s available, please contact our caterers their friends and family back home. Contact details: requirements, contact them to discuss your requirements. Tower of London directly for further details. Contact our retail team on +44 (0) 20 3166 6002 Contact details: [email protected] to discuss delivery [email protected] Contact details: Kensington Palace and discount rates for bulk Hampton Court Palace +44 (0) 20 3166 6112 purchases. +44 (0) 20 3166 6972 booking@kensingtonpalacepavilion.

[email protected] co.uk TOWER OF LONDON

This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site has almost 1000 years of intriguing tales to tell. Meet the Warders, marvel at the fabulous finery of the Jewels and discover an unrivalled collection of royal arms and armour in the ancient White Tower. Explore all the roles this impressive fortress has had to play throughout the centuries – from medieval palace, armoury, to infamous prison and execution site.

9 MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

White Tower Yeoman Warders Bloody Tower The White Tower is an enduring Yeoman Warders, better known as the Explore the most infamous prison icon of the London skyline, albeit Beefeaters, entertain all our visitors at the Tower of London and the nowadays dwarfed by, and in that come to the Tower throughout intriguing tales that inspired the contrast to, the modern city. This the year with their guided tours and name “Bloody Tower”. Discover the striking historic building dating immense knowledge of this ancient stories of the back to 1075 today houses the Line of palace and fortress. and Sir , a favourite Kings exhibit, a display of royal ar- of , who spent 13 years as mour, life-sized wooden horses and a prisoner during the reign of James I. figures of kings throughout the centuries.

Royal Beasts Explore the tales of the many exotic animals kept at the Tower, from , tigers, to elephants and alligators, The breath-taking world famous in the Royal Beasts exhibition. collection of fabulous finery and Discover the polar bear who fished regalia – discover the gloriously in the Thames for his lunch, the ornate, intricately made Crown ostrich who ate nails and many other Jewels and learn how they have surprising stories. Experience the inspired acts of greed, violence sights, sounds and even smells of the and even spawned stories of animals through interactive displays evil curses. and find out what happened when the royal beasts escaped...

Medieval Palace Once a surprisingly comfortable royal home here you will enter the rooms of Edward I and discover life in the opulence and colour of a medieval royal residence.

10 11 PLAN YOUR VISIT GUIDED TOURS AND DAYS OUT IDEAS

Give your groups an even more Private viewing of the Top Tips Recommended Visit Time We suggest at least 3 hours memorable visit by booking a Crown Jewels Opening times Crown Jewels 40 min Bloody Tower 15 min guided tour or private visit Available in the morning from 08.15 27 March – 31 October 2021 • Book your group’s timeslot experience the stunning regalia Daily: 09.00-18.00hrs – admission online via our website to secure Royal Beasts 20 min Fortress and 40 min Morning meet and greet away from the crowds. Price based by half hourly time slot their admission Book a 15-minute welcome talk for on a minimum of 15 people, from Medieval Palace 20 min Yeoman Warder tour 45 min your group. A Yeoman Warder will £90+VAT per person, maximum Last admission time slot: 16.00hrs • The Ceremony of the Word takes White Tower including 40 min meet your group at the Ravens Cages 40, advanced payment required. 31 October: – 28 February 2022 place outside Waterloo Block Line of Kings for a 15 minute intro to the Tower For availability and bookings contact Daily: 09.00-17.00hrs – admission daily at 14.45. See the inspection and a photo opportunity. For [email protected]. by half hourly time slot of the military guard and information on availability and collection of the secret word Admission prices 01 April 2021-28 February 2022 prices, please contact Evening Tours Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs of the day [email protected]. Experience the Tower in a different

Individual price – gate and online Group price light. Meet your Yeoman Warder at 24-26 December and 1 January: • Save time in your itinerary Adult £28.90 £26.60 20.30 for an hour-long tour around Closed by pre-booking Meal Deal the Fortress before experiencing Concession £23.10 £21.30 Audio Guides catering vouchers the worlds longest running Military Child £14.40 £13.30 Groups of 15 or more can pre-order Booking ceremony - the Ceremony of the Family 1 adult £43.30 n/a our audio guides at a discounted Book your time slot online • Package your group visits with Keys. The cost is £40+VAT per price of £3.50 per person. Guides hrp.org.uk/travel-trade. guidebooks and take advantage Family 2 adults £72.20 n/a person for a minimum of 20, can be booked by contacting For assistance with your booking of bulk buying in advance. maximum 50 people, advance pay- [email protected] requirements, email ment required. For availability and and then collected at the entrance. [email protected]. Key bookings contact [email protected].

CATERING Coach parking FACILITY A 24-hour coach park with 16 bays (height restriction SHOPS 4.7m/15’50) is located in Lower

COACH PARKS Thames Street. Coaches can set-down or pick-up passengers BUREAU DE free of charge providing they CHANGE remain no longer than 15 minutes. TOILETS: The charge is £10 per hour. GENTLEMAN Overnight parking between

TOILETS: 17.00 and 09.00 is £25. Contact LADIES [email protected] (Prices correct at time of TOILETS: DISABLED going to press).

UNDERGROUND TRAIN LINE Group catering Please see pages 6 and 7 for OVERGROUND catering information. TRAIN LINE

12 13 HAMPTON COURT PALACE

Hampton Court Palace is an awe-inspiring and flamboyant showcase of kingship. It’s vast, endless vistas, courtyards, gardens and parkland, along with its magnificent State Apartments rival the great palaces of Europe; all designed to impress those that visit.

15 MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

Henry VIII’s Kitchens Henry VIII’s Apartments The Great Vine Experience the Tudor Kitchens, the Walk in the footsteps of ’s Planted by Lancelot Capability well-oiled machine that powered most famous King and his six wives. Brown in 1768, this is the oldest vine Henry VIII’s magnificent court. Lavishly presented apartments in the world. See the many bunches Immerse yourself in a bygone era include Henry’s , the of grapes develop through the with grand displays of food, authentic Great Watching Chamber and the summer ready for harvest in late smells, the heat of the fireplaces, and processional route, allegedly August, early September. the sounds of the busy kitchen staff. haunted by , Henry’s fifth wife.

Privy Garden The Privy Garden is one of the most Gold and Glory: Henry VIII and King William III State Apartments accurately reconstructed gardens the French King A grand and lavishly laid out at Hampton Court because so From 1 April – 5 September 2021 collection of State Apartments built much was recorded about the Discover the story behind the by the new monarchs, William and original 1702 garden. The beautiful Grand European Summit between Mary. Walk through the rooms of geometry of the garden seen against Henry VIII and François I in this elegant palace and imagine the stunning palace façade is a site 1520, known as the Field of Cloth the beautifully dressed courtiers not to be missed. of Gold. Meet the organisers, revelling in the politics and gossip courtiers and kings, and explore of court life. Gaze out of the dazzling treasures from the windows to the magnificent King’s Tudor and French courts Privy Garden. Georgian Kitchen Garden including gold, weaponry and Tulip Festival See how the fruit, flowers and spectacular artworks from the vegetables were planted, tended and . From 17 April-3 May 2021 In spring 2021, Hampton Court harvested for the kings table in the Queen’s Apartments Palace will become a kaleidoscope 18th century in this enormous Climb the Queen’s Staircase to of colours as thousands of tulips garden, full of produce. discover the impressively decorated bloom throughout the gardens and grand State Apartments originally the courtyards. A special trail will built for Queen Mary II, redecorated guide visitors around the stunning The Maze by Queen Anne and occupied by displays, revealing the history of Commissioned around 1700 by George II and Queen Caroline, the the tulips, believed to date back to William III, this large and complex last monarchs to live at Hampton Mary II (1662-1694). Our expert maze is one of the oldest surviving Court Palace. gardening team will also be on hedge mazes in the country and hand to provide tips and infor- covers a third of an acre – make mation to keen gardeners during sure your groups have their wits their visit. Included in admission. about them if they choose to brave the maze!

16 17 PLAN YOUR VISIT GUIDED TOURS AND DAYS OUT IDEAS

Give your groups an even more Top Tips Recommended Visit Time We suggest at least 4 hours memorable visit by booking a Opening times Henry VIII’s Apartments 40 min Queen’s State Apartments 30 min guided tour or private visit 27 March – 30 October 2021 • Book your group’s timeslot Wednesday - Sunday: online via our website to secure Henry VIII’s Kitchens 40 min The Gardens 1 hr Morning Tours 10.30-18.00hrs – admission by their admission Experience the delights of half hourly timeslot William III’s Apartments 40 min The Maze it depends... Hampton Court Palace without the Last admission time slot: 16.30hrs • Enhance your group visit by Gold and Glory: Henry VIII 45 min usual crowds. Choose a theme from booking a Palace Accredited and the French King History where it happened, Glorious 31 October – 28 February 2022 Guide for a tour of the palace Gardens or Magnificent artwork, all Wednesday - Sunday: and gardens led by our expert guides. After your 10.30 – 16.30hrs – admission by Admission prices 01 March 2021-28 February 2022 tour, you will have the opportunity half hourly timeslot • Save time in your itinerary by to enjoy breakfast in a private Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs pre-booking Meal Deal catering Individual price – gate and online Group price apartment before discovering more vouchers Adult £25.30 £23.30 about the palace. Your 3-hour Monday - Tuesday: Closed Concession £20.20 £18.60 experience will take place between • Hampton Court Station is just 24-26 December: Closed Child £12.60 £11.60 09.00-11.00, maximum 24 guests half an hour from London at £1,500+ VAT. Tours available Family 1 adult £37.90 n/a Waterloo Station in zone 6 Monday-Friday exc bank holidays. Daytime Tours Booking and can be accessed using Family 2 adults £63.20 n/a Choose from our selection of themed Book your time slot online tours including; Collection Access: a zone Horses, Heritage and Feasting www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade. 6 Travelcard or a prepaid Every weekday from 09.00, meet the “Behind the Scenes”, Rooftop Views, For assistance with your booking Oyster Card – see www.tfl.gov.uk Key descendants of Henry VIII’s great Glorious Gardens or Rogues to requirements, email for more information shire horses before the palace opens Royals: Unruly Residents, before [email protected]. CATERING to the public. Meet your footmen for enjoying some refreshments in your FACILITY • Coach parking is free on the morning and climb aboard the own private apartment. Your Coach parking Hampton Court Green, a exclusive 3-hour experience between SHOPS ornate carriage fit for royalty. Take in Coach parking is available free of 15-minute walk from the main the splendour of the Great Fountain 10.00-17.00 is for a maximum of charge for 8 coaches on Hampton entrance of the palace. Coach COACH PARKS Garden and Home Park before 24 guests at £1000+VAT plus your Court Green or at a cost of £25 per parking is also available at arriving back at the palace for a spot choice of breakfast, light lunch day on weekdays, £15 per day on Hampton Court Station TOILETS: or afternoon tea. Available GENTLEMAN of breakfast in a private apartment. weekends and Bank Holidays at for a charge. Your personal guide will meet you Monday-Friday with a supplement the coach park next to Hampton TOILETS: of £1,000+VAT for weekend tours. LADIES and take you on a choice of tour Court Rail Station (Prices correct around the palace. Choose between a at time of going to press). TOILETS: rooftop tour (maximum 15 guests) or DISABLED a history tour. £2,500+VAT for up to Audio Guides Group catering OVERGROUND 20 guests. Available free of charge, digital au- Please see pages 6 and 7 for TRAIN LINE dio guides can be collected from the catering information. Information Centre in Base Court, providing a user friendly, modern way to explore our stunning palace. Please email groupsandtraveltrade@ hrp.org.uk for further information.

18 19 KENSINGTON PALACE

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 . More recently, it has been the of Princess Margaret, Diana , and is currently home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their family. A visit reveals the surprising stories of many of the palace’s inhabitants over the centuries.

21 MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

King’s State Apartments Climb the magnificent King’s Staircase where Georgian courtiers peer down on you, marvel at the impressively decorated rooms and discover the fashionable world of the curious court of George II and Queen Caroline.

Queen’s State Apartments Explore the small intimate rooms where the great tale of the Stuart dynasty reaches its tragic conclusion.

Palace Gardens The beautifully transformed gardens reconnect the building with the landscape of providing picturesque walks and Victoria - A royal childhood Life Through A Royal Lens fantastic vistas. In the very rooms that Queen Coming in 2022 Victoria grew up in, discover a This exhibition will explore the surprisingly playful, creative and impact of and inventive child who would one day Prince Albert’s patronage of rule over the largest empire the photography during its infancy world had ever known. and showcases never before seen private photos taken by members of the Royal Family including works by fashion photographer Victorian Tiaras and husband to Princess Gaze at the glittering suite of gems Margaret, Lord Snowdon. specially commissioned for Victoria Included in admission. by her beloved Albert. The display includes the magnificent diamond and emerald diadem, emerald necklace, earrings and brooch.

22 23 PLAN YOUR VISIT GUIDED TOURS AND DAYS OUT IDEAS

Top Tips Recommended Visit Time We suggest 2 hours Opening times 04 March - 31 October 2021 • Book your group’s timeslot Victoria: A royal childhood 30 min Queens State Apartments 20 min Wednesday-Sunday: 10:30- online via our website to secure Life through a royal lens 30 min Palace Gardens 30 min 18:00hrs – admission by half their admission hourly timeslot Kings State Apartments 30 min Last admission time slot: 16:00hrs • Allow 15-20 minutes for your 01 November 2021 – 28 February 2022 group to walk through Admission prices 04 March 2021 – 09 June 2021 and 18 October – 3 January 2022 Wednesday – Sunday 10.30- Kensington Gardens from the 16.00hrs – admission by half coach park on Bayswater Road Individual price – gate and online Group price hourly timeslot to ensure they arrive on time for Adult £21 .50 £19.80 Last admission time slot: 14.30hrs their timed admission Concession £17.20 £15.90 Child £10.70 £9.90 Monday - Tuesday: Closed • For those with access requirements please email Family 1 adult £32.20 n/a 24-26 December: Closed Family 2 adults £53.70 n/a the Contact Centre to make Booking arrangements booking.confirma Book your time slot online [email protected] 10 June – 17 October 2021 hrp.org.uk/travel-trade. Give your groups an even more Private Evening Tours For assistance with your booking • Enhance your group visit Individual price – gate and online Group price memorable visit by booking a If you would prefer an evening tour, requirements, email and include refreshments guided tour or private visit groups can now experience the Adult £24 .50 £22.60 [email protected] in the Pavilion. Delicious delights of the palace after the doors Concession £19.60 £18.10 brunches, lunches and afternoon Early Morning Tours close to the public. Starting at 17.00 Coach parking teas can be arranged for Child £12.25 £11.30 Join one of our Palace Explainers at in the winter and 18.00 in the summer, There is a coach park north of the pre-booked groups Family 1 adult £36.75 n/a 09.00 for a fascinating guided tour join your guide for an hour tour of the palace on Bayswater Road. Open Family 2 adults £61.25 n/a of the State Apartments and the State Apartments and the Victoria: 24 hours, it costs £38 for up to 12 • Take a stroll around the palace Victoria: A royal childhood A royal childhood exhibition hours, 12-24 hours £48. grounds in the spring or summer exhibition an hour before the palace after the crowds have departed. Tours officially opens. After the tour, are £1000+VAT for up to 10 people, Pay and display or pay by phone. to view the beautiful planting Key discover more of the palace at additional guests at £100 per person, Prices correct at the time of going in the Sunken Garden in its leisure as it opens to the public from maximum 60 people. Contact to press. Contact Euro Carparks full glory. CATERING FACILITY 10.00. This unique experience costs [email protected] for availability. 020 7563 3000. SHOPS £650 plus VAT for up to 10 guests, thereafter £65 per person plus VAT Please allow 10-15 minutes for COACH PARKS maximum 60 per tour. groups to walk through Kensington BUREAU DE Gardens to the palace entrance. CHANGE For coaches with less able TOILETS: GENTLEMAN passengers, please contact [email protected] TOILETS: LADIES for closer drop off arrangements. TOILETS: DISABLED Group catering UNDERGROUND Please see pages 6 and 7 for TRAIN LINE catering information.

24 25 KEW PALACE THE ROYAL KITCHENS, QUEEN CHARLOTTE’S COTTAGE AND THE GREAT PAGODA

Explore the royal landscape at Kew. The intimate palace brings to life the joys and sorrows of George III and his family. Discover the eating habits of the royal household in the Royal Kitchens and where they enjoyed family outings and tea at Queen Charlotte’s Cottage. Lastly the Great Pagoda, designed by William Chambers for the royal family in the 18th century, the 163ft tall building was so exotic that a suspicious public were unconvinced it would remain standing.

27 MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

1 George: The Mind Behind the Myth From 1 April - 26 September 2021 2020 marked 200 years since the death of George III. George grew up at Kew Palace, but later in his life, it became a place of incarceration and torment during his periods of mental illness. Through objects and interpretation in the palace rooms, explore George III’s illness, treatment and public attitudes to how we think and talk about mental illness today.

The Great Pagoda at Kew The Great Pagoda, recently restored to its 18th century grandeur, is open to those brave enough to take its 253 Kew Palace Royal Kitchens steps to the top! As you climb, learn Enter the intimate world of 18th Situated in an adjacent building, why the Pagoda was built and how century royalty. Over three floors, so as not to pollute the palace with the royal family used this unique meet George III and his family in the cooking smells, discover the building in the 18th century. Enjoy very rooms they inhabited. Explore ingredients and methods used to spectacular views of modern the Queen’s Boudoir where Queen prepare food for the royal table. London and look out for the 80 Charlotte would spend hours at Stroll through the kitchen garden Queen Charlotte’s cottage specially designed rooftop dragons. needlework, spinning and knotting. where the produce is still grown Situated in Kew Gardens, and open An additional ticket is required to Learn what some guests had to say using the Georgian methods. at weekends in the summer months, climb to the top. Opening subject to about the King’s hospitality in The this is where the royal family enjoyed government guidelines. King’s Dining Room and discover picnics and tea parties during long Princess Elizabeth and Queen summer walks through the gardens. Charlotte’s bedrooms. Built as a country retreat, and not a residence this is a perfect example of historic royals at play, and relaxing behind closed doors.

28 29 PLAN YOUR VISIT GUIDED TOURS AND DAYS OUT IDEAS

Top Tips Recommended Visit Time At least 4 hours including Kew Gardens Opening times Kew Palace • Pre-book your group admission Palace 1 hr The Great Pagoda 30 min 1 April - 26 September 2021 time slot for Kew Palace Kew Gardens 2 hrs Royal Kitchens and Garden 30 min Daily: 10.30-17.30hrs when booking Kew Gardens as Last admission time slot: 17.00hrs the palace can get very busy Queen Charlotte’s cottage 30 min (summer weekends only) The Royal Kitchens • Don’t forget to visit Queen 1 April - 26 September 2021 Charlotte’s Cottage nestled in Daily: 10.30-17.30hrs Admission prices the bluebell woods Last admission time slot: 17.00hrs Queen Charlotte’s Cottage • Pay a visit to the Great Pagoda Kew Palace, the Royal Kitchens and Queen Charlotte’s Cottage are included Weekends and Bank Holidays and marvel at the beautifully during opening season in admission to Kew Gardens. Please visit throughout the summer carved dragons, which return to www.kew.org or contact [email protected] for prices and bookings. 11.00-16.00hrs adorn the rooves for the first Last admission time slot: 15.50hrs time since 1784. The Great Pagoda 3 April to 30 September and October Half Term 2021 The Great Pagoda Adult - £4.50, Child £3.00 3 April-27 September and October Half Term 2021 Daily: 10.30-17.30hrs Last admission time slot: 17.00hrs Key Give your groups an even more Palace and kitchens tours Kew Gardens CATERING memorable visit by booking a Enhance your group visit to Kew Open daily from 10.00hrs. Please FACILITY guided tour or private visit Palace and enjoy an intimate daytime check www.kew.org for closing tour that includes the palace and Royal COACH PARKS Kitchens with our costumed palace times. Exclusive morning and evening experts, £10 per person. TOILETS: Booking GENTLEMAN tours of Kew Palace Discover this intimate royal family To pre-book your joint visit to TOILETS: Kew Gardens and Kew Palace LADIES home that hosted both the happy and sad times of King George III and Royal Kitchens contact TOILETS: and his family with one of our expert [email protected] or call DISABLED guides. Morning tours (09.00-10.00) +44 (0) 20 8332 5648. are £650+VAT for up to 15 people, OVERGROUND Coach parking TRAIN LINE thereafter £65+VAT per person. Please visit www.kew.org for Evening tours (18.00-19.00) are OVERGROUND details of pick-up and drop off or TRAIN LINE £450+VAT for 15 people, thereafter email [email protected]. £30+VAT per person. Contact [email protected] for availability. Group catering Groups can arrange refreshments with the caterers at Kew Gardens by calling +44 (0) 20 8332 5186.

30 31 HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE AND GARDENS

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is the spectacular official residence of the Royal Family in Northern Ireland. Explore the stunningly renovated State Rooms, including the grand and Red Room where key political figures and royalty alike have gathered, then venture outside to discover the delights of the 100-acre gardens, whatever the season.

33 MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

The Walled Garden The Weston Pavilion The Walled Garden dates to the 18th The Weston Pavilion has all Century and is a large, four-acre the services you will require on site historically used to produce arriving or departing the attraction. fruit, vegetables and flowers for the Ticketing facilities, toilets, a chance house. Restored and re-presented, to relax in the Hillsborough Castle explore this beautiful working and Cafe and an opportunity to partake productive garden, complete with in some retail therapy in the shop. dipping pond, crop rotations, seasonal produce served in the café and potting sheds. Herbaceous borders and an apple orchard can The Gardens also be seen. Wander at leisure through the historic gardens, which were developed from the 1760’s onwards. Explore intriguing contrasts between Castle tour ornate formal gardens, woodland Discover stories of celebration, and meadows. an eye out for entertainment, diplomacy and specimen trees and rare as you negotiation as our expert Explainers explore the grounds. take you on a 45-minute tour of Hillsborough Castle’s fascinating history and stunning State Rooms.

State Rooms During your castle tour, you will be introduced to all the State Rooms that make up this elegant Georgian home including; the grand Throne Room, relaxing State Drawing Room, Lady Grey’s Study, State Dining Room, Red Room and Staircase Hall.

34 35 PLAN YOUR VISIT GUIDED TOURS AND DAYS OUT IDEAS

Top Tips Castle Tour and Garden admission price 01 March 2021-28 February 2022 Recommended visit time 2 hours • Book your group’s Castle tour Individual price Group price Guided Castle tour timeslot online via our website Adult £14 .20 £13.06 45 minutes to secure their admission Concession £11.40 £10.49 Garden visit Child £7.10 £6.53 • Arrive 45 minutes before your 1 hour, but there’s lots to explore Family 1 adult £21.30 n/a Castle tour timeslot to ensure so stay as long as you like! you don’t miss your tour Family 2 adults £35.50 n/a Opening times • Our new Coach Park is located Gardens only admission 01 March 2021 - 28 February 2022 01 April – 30 October 2021 close to the Weston Pavilion Thursday – Sunday: 10.00 – 17.00hrs – Castle admission by where you’ll find toilets, Individual price Group price ticketing and a café and shop. 15 minute time slots Adult £10.20 £9.40 Ensure you allow enough time Last admission time slot: 16.00hrs Concession in your itinerary for your group £8.15 £7.50 to enjoy this area too Child £5.10 £4.70 Group bookings taken daily Family 1 adult £15.30 n/a according to availability • The Stable Yard Tea Room, Family 2 adults £25.50 n/a 31 October 2021 – 28 February 2022 located opposite the Castle Group bookings Thursday – Sunday: 10.00 – entrance, offers drinks and For assistance with your group 16.00hrs – Castle admission by snacks and is a great place to Key booking requirements, email 15 minute time slots rest whilst awaiting your [email protected] Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs Castle tour CATERING FACILITY Coach parking Group bookings taken daily • Just 30 minutes from Belfast or COACH PARKS The coach park has direct access from according to availabiltiy an hour and a half from Dublin the A1 dual carriageway. There are 12 on the main road between the TOILETS: GENTLEMAN coach parking spaces free of charge Gardens only admission two cities, Hillsborough is a MAP ON on a first come first served basis for 01 April – 30 October 2021 convenient stop off for TOILETS: castle and garden visitors. Thursday – Sunday: LADIES your itinerary. THE WAY 10.00 – 17.00hrs TOILETS: Access from Weston Pavilion Last admission time slot: 16.00hrs

DISABLED to Castle 31 October 2021 – 28 February 2022 A pleasant stroll through the gardens OVERGROUND Thursday – Sunday: TRAIN LINE takes approximately 20 minutes from 10.00 – 16.00hrs the Weston Pavilion to the Castle OVERGROUND Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs TRAIN LINE itself. For visitors who require mobility assistance or for those who 24-26 December: Closed are time restricted please contact [email protected] prior to your visit for more information. The castle itself is fully wheelchair accessible.

36 37 BANQUETING HOUSE

This revolutionary building was created for court entertainments where a dazzling company of courtiers attended the exuberant masques and danced and drank beneath the magnificent Rubens-painted ceiling. But spare a thought for Charles I, who in 1649, was beheaded on a scaffold outside to the ‘dismal, universal groan’ of the crowd.

The Banqueting House is closed for visits in 2021 but remains available for private events, gala dinners and receptions.

Banqueting House is the perfect backdrop for any event. Host a grand dinner and reception for up to 400 guests or impress your suppliers by hiring the venue for a conference.

To enquire for your next event please contact [email protected] for further information.

39 GET SOCIAL WITH US

Historic Royal Palaces has even more ways for Contact details you to access regular updates and to take part Buy tickets for 15 or more people in conversations about the past, present and future T: +44 (0) 333 320 6000 of our palaces, our works and your group visits E: [email protected] Book your groups online at www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade Join our online communities… Find out more about the palaces For historical insights, forthcoming events and www.hrp.org.uk behind-the-scenes access to the palaces and the people that tell their stories, like us on Facebook, follow us on Ask the Travel Trade Team Twitter and Instagram, join our LinkedIn group or T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6311 watch our videos on Youtube. E: [email protected]

Images of the palaces www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade

Souvenirs and shopping T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6848 E: [email protected] www.historicroyalpalaces.com

Corporate gifts T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6857 E: [email protected]

Parties and events T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6399 E: [email protected] www.hrp.org.uk/hireavenue

TERMS AND CONDITIONS concessionary rate, Groups of children booking or any individual palace reserve the right to our Education sessions and admissions should withdraw from public access any route, room or Pricing validity is from 01 March 2021 to 28 be escorted by adults/seniors to the ratio of 1-6 area within a palace or its grounds without February 2022. Historic Royal Palaces retain the for up to 6 years old and 1-10 for 7-16 years at all notice. Whilst every care is exercised in the right to adjust prices during this period, should palaces. Groups of children booking the standard compilation of this manual, HRP or any individual circumstances dictate. rates should be escorted adults/seniors to the palace cannot be held liable for any information ratio of 1-15 for 6 years and up. that is inaccurate or subsequently changed. Payment may be made by cash, major credit cards (excluding Diners Card) and via the Agency It should be noted that Historic Royal Palaces Support materials (which are generally available Voucher Scheme. (HRP), or any individual palace, may at any time free of charge) such as leaflets and images are alter the opening times and/or availability of Crown Copyright and should only be used for the A child is defined as aged between 5 years and access to any palace. In the event of palace purpose stated and not altered in any way without 15 years old. Children visiting the Magic Garden closure any pre-paid groups will receive a full express written agreement from HRP. over the age of 3 will be charged. Young person’s refund of monies paid, but neither HRP nor any 16-18 years may obtain concessionary admission. individual palace will be liable for any Historic Royal Palaces is a registered charity Senior citizens (65 and over) are admitted at the consequential loss arising from such closure. HRP (number 1068852)

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TOWER OF LONDON HAMPTON COURT PALACE KENSINGTON PALACE

BANQUETING HOUSE KEW PALACE HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE AND GARDENS