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Historic Royal Palaces

We are the independent charity that loves and looks after six of the most wonderful palaces in the world

A man and a woman, dressed in winter clothes, are at a Christmas market at night, looking at and pointing to items in the stall.

Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre

13-15 December 2024

Discover a winter wonderland with over 100 artisan producers at Henry VIII's palace.

  • Events
  • Christmas

Christmas at the Tower

Celebrate Christmas at the Tower of London with specially created displays that show how kings and queens of the past experienced the festive season.

  • Until 05 January 2025 (excluding 24-26 December & 01 January)
  • Tower of London
  • Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Learn more
  • Families
  • Events
  • Christmas

Hampton Court Palace ice rink

Get your skates on and glide around this stunning outdoor ice rink this festive season.

  • Daily until 05 January 2025 (excluding Christmas Day)
  • 09:30-20:00
  • Hampton Court Palace
  • Separate ticket (palace admission not included)
Learn more
  • Families
  • Events
  • Christmas

Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Explore the gardens this Christmas transformed with beautiful decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas.

  • Until 05 January 2025
  • In line with gardens opening hours.
  • Hillsborough Castle
  • Included in all admission tickets (Members go free)
Learn more

Gunpowder Plot

Travel back in time and experience history like never before in this thrilling immersive experience and step inside history's most daring conspiracy.

Shop 24/7 online

Discover beautiful Christmas gifts and home decor inspired by our palaces.

Join as a member

Enjoy a range of member benefits including unlimited adventures at our magnificent palaces, access to an exciting events programme and discounts in our shops and restaurants. 

Browse history and stories

Thomas Cromwell's fateful match-making

Hear from our experts on our blog

Tracy Borman explores the real history behind Thomas Cromwell's downfall, which forms the dramatic conclusion to Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light.

Take a close look at Peter Paul Ruben's Masterpiece

Discover the stories depicted in the nine painted panels and secrets of the Banqueting House with Google Arts and Culture. Zoom in to see details of the paintings in incredible detail online.

Get involved

We are an independent charity and there are many ways you can support us.

Make a donation

A donation can make a difference in keeping the spirit of the palaces alive for the future, for everyone. 

Donate

Membership

Your support through membership gives the palaces a future, for everyone.

Become a member

Support us as a corporate partner

Enjoy unrivalled access to our incredible palaces by supporting us as a corporate partner.

Corporate partnerships

Become a custodian of British History

Sponsor a stone in the iconic White Tower at the Tower of London. Looking for that extra special gift? Give a friend or loved one something uniquely personal.