Introduction to a living Tudor world

Join King Henry and his family at his favourite palace

Step back in time

What if you could take part in one of the great events of history and rub shoulders with the celebrities of the past? Well now you can!

If you are a teacher or booking on behalf of an education group, please click here >

Henry VIII's wives

At Hampton Court Palace you will be able to see an exciting new film featuring all six of Henry's wives. The film is in the Buttery at the start of Henry VIII's Apartments, where you can also see new portraits of each wife and learn more about their lives ... and fates.

As you walk in their footsteps through Henry's apartments, discover the visual clues left behind by his queens in these magnificent rooms and find out about the events in the palace that shaped their lives.

Find out more about Henry VIII's wives >

View our Henry VIII's wives slideshow >

Find out more about Henry VIII >

Your day at court

Come to the King's pleasure palace and experience the splendours of his court. Click here to find out more >

Henry VIII's tapestries revealed

See how our conservation scientists recreated the original dazzling colours on one of Henry's most magnificent tapestries. Click here to find out more >

Take a piece of Henry home

Why not take something home for yourself or that special someone? There is a fabulous range of specially crafted memorabilia. Click here for more information >

Message board

If Henry VIII was still alive today, but wasn't a king, what do you think he would be? A gangster, rock star or politician?. We would love to hear your thoughts. Click here to visit the message board >

Find out more

Joust in a tournament for Henry VIII and his new bride, Kateryn Parr, in our online game. Play the game now >

Prepare to meet the King

Visiting Henry's court is full of pitfalls for the unwary. Make sure you prepare well in advance to make a big impression. Here are some tips to help you prepare...

How to greet the King

Don’t forget to bow or curtsey whenever you enter the royal presence.

How to greet the King Gentlemen, you may either fall to your knees or show off your well turned legs with one of these continental bows which are just coming into fashion.

Ladies, practice curtseying as low as you can go.
Best tone up those calves, as you will need to stay bowed until the royal couple pass. It’s also considered bad form if you don't bow or curtsey three times before you leave their presence. The more agile courtier can do this whilst walking backwards but, whatever you do, don't ever turn your back on the King.

Gentlemen, remember to take off your hats or even throw them in the air! A few shouts of ‘God save the King and Queen!’ should go down well too. You can never be too respectful if you want to get on at Court.

Video: Watch our videos on how to bow and curtsey »

How to dress for Court

What are the best dressed people of 1543 wearing?

There will be Tudor gowns available for all guests to wear around the palace, but you may like to make some preparations beforehand. Only the highest members of society, like yourselves, are allowed bright colours and rich fabrics for their clothes. Make sure the servants accompanying you wear dowdy and drab clothes as fixed by law. This will help show off the expense and elegance of your own wardrobe.

Take a look at what the best dressed women are wearing by following the link below.