Established by Royal Charter in 1998, Historic Royal Palaces is the independent charity that looks after the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace the Banqueting House, and Kew Palace. These palaces are owned by The Queen on behalf of the nation, and Historic Royal Palaces manages them for the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport. Historic Royal Palaces receives no funding from the Government or the Crown, so depends on the support of visitors, members, donors, volunteers and sponsors.

With a total turnover of over £62m, all self-generated, and permanent staffing of over 700 people, Historic Royal Palaces’ aim is to help everyone explore the story of how monarchs and people have shaped society, in some of the greatest palaces ever built.

To celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics this year, we will have completed four major projects:

• Kensington Palace will re-open in March 2012, following a major £12 million project which will transform the visitor experience, with many improvements to help visitors enjoy and understand this historic royal residence.
• At the Tower of London, the iconic White Tower has been conserved and a major re-presentation of the Crown Jewels will also open in March.
• The Royal Kitchens at Kew Palace will open to the public for the very first time in Summer 2012, following complete restoration.

Also in 2012, Hampton Court Palace will be an official Olympic venue, hosting the cycling time trials on 1 August 2012, and both the Tower of London and Hampton Court will play significant roles in the journey of the Olympic torch around London.

The Chairman and Trustees give their services on an honorary basis. Expenses incurred by them, in the performance of their duties, are reimbursed.

For more information about Historic Royal Palaces please contact the HRP press office on 020 3166 6166 or email press@hrp.org.uk

More information can be found at www.hrp.org.uk