26 November 2011– 08 January 2012
Ice at the palace
The Hampton Court Palace ice rink returns in November for another splendid skating season. Set in the truly spectacular surroundings of the palace West Front, this is a family festive event not to be missed.

For information and advance bookings visit www.hrp.org.uk


03, 04 and 27 December 2011 - 02 January 2012
Tudor cookery
Which dishes rumbled a Tudor tummy? Come in from the cold and feel the heat from the fire in our Tudor kitchens. Experience real smells and sounds as our intrepid team of history chefs experiment with recipes, ingredients and cooking methods to prepare a feast fit for a king.


11 December 2011
Ghost tours
See Hampton Court Palace in an eerie new light.
Experience the unique atmosphere of Henry VIII's State Apartments, including the infamous Haunted Gallery, and creep through the deserted courtyards - if you dare!

Advance booking is essential. Tickets cost £25; to book online please visit www.hrp.org.uk or call 0844 482 7799. Please note that the ghost tour does not include a full tour of Hampton Court Palace and is not suitable for under 12s.


19 -23 December 2011 
Carol singing around the palace courtyards
Join us for our annual carol singing around the courtyards of Hampton Court Palace, accompanied by the Epsom & Ewell Silver Band. Promenade around the palace courtyards singing carols to get everyone in the Christmas mood.

This is an outdoor event so please dress warmly. 6pm-7pm, Tickets £7 adults, £3.50 under 16’s (under 5’s free) Pre-booking is essential as tickets sell out quickly 0844 482 7775


27 December 2011 - 02 January 2012 
Tudor Christmas
It is December 1540. Henry VIII and his new young wife, Catherine Howard, will celebrate her first Christmas as Queen at Hampton Court Palace. With songs, stories, music and dance - and the madcap humour of the king's fool, Will Sumer - everything looks set for a Christmas to remember!

But what to do about 'the King's dear sister' - his wife from earlier in the year, Anne of Cleves?

Meanwhile in the Tudor Kitchens, our historic cooks will also be preparing suitable festive fare. Come to the King's finest palace and experience the splendours of his court during the Christmas season.