LAST CHANCE TO SEE!
Daily until 03 Jan 2012
Kensington Palace
Enchanted Palace
Kensington Palace, former home to some of Britain’s best known royals including Queen Victoria and Diana, Princess of Wales, is currently transformed into the Enchanted Palace. An interactive visitor experience combining contemporary art installations, fashion, and live performance, it is an innovative response to a £12 million major renovation project currently underway at the palace.

The experience features stunning displays of courtly costume created by leading British designers Vivienne Westwood, Bruce Oldfield and Boudicca. Whilst visitors journey through the historic State Apartments, they discover the stories of Kensington’s seven princesses who once lived there. Dresses that once belonged to and were worn by Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales are also displayed alongside the fashion installations.

As part of the final evolution of Enchanted Palace, contemporary artist Chris Levine has created a series of spectacular light installations throughout the State Apartments, inspired by the palace’s fascinating history and its former royal residents.


19 November 2011 – 08 January 2012
Tower of London
Ice at the Tower
The Tower ice rink returns for another year by popular demand. Set in the dry moat, the ice rink is the perfect way to have some fun and kick start the festive season with a hot chocolate or even a mulled wine!

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


26 November 2011– 08 January 2012
Hampton Court Palace
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
Hampton Court Palace
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
Hampton Court Palace
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
Hampton Court Palace
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 7795


27 December - 31 December 2011 
Kensington Palace
Enchanted Christmas
Make the most of this last chance to experience the Enchanted Palace, with Christmas craft activities to keep children (and adults!) busy. Try your hand at making paper palace lanterns or paper roses, which will certainly keep you enchanted during the Christmas break. Activities take place between 11am-4pm and all materials are included in palace admission.


27 - 31 December 2011
Tower of London
Medieval Christmas
Live costumed interpreters will bring the palace to life with a Medieval Christmas. Join King Edward I and his court and celebrate Christmas back in 1284, as they prepare to celebrate the festive season. Join in the jovial atmosphere of King Edward’s court as entertainers perform around you, musicians play and sing and fools make you laugh. Accompany the king and his court as they gather for traditional tales and fun aplenty!


27 December 2011 - 02 January 2012
Hampton Court Palace
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.