Adult Learning

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Adult Learning

Built in 1689 and home to members of the Royal Family up to the present day, Kensington is a palace of secret stories and public lives. This spring we will look at international connections at Kensington including Russia, Greece and Holland. In the summer we have a number of events to tie in with the launch of our new Fashion Rules exhibition. Discover the changing nature of 20th-century fashion with dresses worn by the Queen, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales. 
World of William and Mary

Programme of events 2013


Princess Marina

Vintage hairstyles masterclass

Be Dazzled: Norman Hartnell, sixty years of glamour and fashion

Zandra Rhodes: 80s and 90s portfolio

Beautiful beading


Princess Marina
Evening talk with Hugo Vickers
Wednesday 22 May
18.30-19.30
£12/£10 HRP members
Greece - Hugo Vickers tells the story of the captivating Princess Marina, once time resident of Kensington Palace. She came from Greece in 1934 to marry Prince George; they had three children together but she was widowed in 1942. Elegant and slightly tragic, she found a place in the hearts of the British public. This talk is richly illustrated with images of the Princess at the height of her 1950s beauty.

This event includes a drinks reception and entry to the palace.

Book now >

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Vintage hairstyles masterclass
Workshop with Dolly and Rhonda
Saturday 15 June
13.00-16.30
£49/£44 HRP members
From the curls of the Queen in the 1950s to the 60s beehive style of Princess Margaret, hairstyles have been as important in royal fashion as the garments worn. Learn about vintage hairstyle techniques and get pampered and preened by Dolly and Rhonda to look like a fashion icon from the 50s or 60s - from lips and liner to victory rolls and beehives!

This event includes light refreshments and entry to the palace.

Unfortunately this event is currently not bookable online. To book please call our Contact Centre on 0844 482 7799.

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Be Dazzled: Norman Hartnell, sixty years of glamour and fashion
Evening talk with Michael Pick
Tuesday 2 July
18.30-19.30
£12/£10 HRP members
Norman Hartnell (1901-1979) was a major fashion personality, world-famous for his glamorous evening clothes. He created the 1947 wedding gown of Princess Elizabeth and subsequently dressed the young Queen in the 1950s, including her iconic coronation dress. Author Michael Pick will discuss Hartnell’s career, focusing on his unique relationship with royalty.

This event includes a drinks reception and entry to the palace.

Book now >

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Zandra Rhodes: 80s and 90s portfolio
Evening talk with Zandra Rhodes
Wednesday 10 July
18.30-19.30
£12/£10 HRP members
Zandra Rhodes is one of Britain’s most iconic fashion designers. With her bright pink hair, theatrical make-up and artistic jewellery, she has stamped her identity on the international world of fashion. She designed for Diana Princess of Wales in the late 1980s and early 90s. Zandra will talk about her design portfolio during that time, as well as her links with Diana.

This event includes a drinks reception and entry to the palace.

Book now >

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Beautiful beading
Workshop with Hand & Lock Embroidery
Saturday 20 July
10.30-16.00
£64/£59 HRP members
Norman Hartnell used beads and sequins to glittering effect in many of his evening wear and ceremonial designs of the 1950s and 60s. Led by expert embroiderers from Hand & Lock, you will learn the technique of tambour beading to follow a pattern inspired by the beading on the Hartnell dresses in the Fashion Rules exhibition. Includes materials; suitable for beginners and enthusiastic amateurs.

This event includes a drinks reception and entry to the palace.

Unfortunately this event is currently not bookable online. To book please call our Contact Centre on 0844 482 7799.

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Current programme

NewSpring and Summer 2013 programme (PDF 3.14MB)


Booking Information

See full details on booking events at all palaces.


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Adult learning

An adult learning session at one of the palaces

Whether your interest lies in the people who made history or spectacular art collections, there is plenty of opportunity to learn more and be inspired by our palaces!

Find out about our programme of events

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