Receptions and dining

Britain's most iconic royal palace

For more than 500 years, Hampton Court Palace has played host to lavish feasts, magnificent celebrations and prestigious gatherings for royalty and distinguished guests alike. Once the pleasure palace of King Henry VIII, its magnificent halls, elegant galleries and beautiful gardens were designed to impress, entertain and inspire. Today, that remarkable legacy continues, offering a truly unforgettable setting for intimate dinners, glittering galas, prestigious receptions and everything in between. Surrounded by centuries of history, your guests will experience the grandeur of one of Britain's most iconic royal residences, where every event becomes part of an extraordinary story. Explore our exceptional collection of spaces and discover the perfect backdrop for your next occasion.

Capacity

• Up to 200 guests for dining

• Up to 300 guests for a standing reception

The Cartoon Gallery

Rich in history, art and elegance, the Cartoon Gallery is one of Hampton Court Palace's most impressive event spaces. Originally used by the Privy Council, this grand room now offers guests the opportunity to entertain within a truly unique royal setting.

Named after the Raphael Cartoons displayed along its walls, the gallery showcases a series of extraordinary Renaissance masterpieces. These works were created as designs for tapestries and remain among the most celebrated pieces of art in the palace. Combined with stunning views across Fountain Court, the gallery provides an unforgettable setting for receptions, dinners and exclusive private events.

The King’s Eating Room

In this beautiful room, William III would mark important occasions by dining in the presence of notable members of the Royal Court.

Today, the grand yet cosy atmosphere makes it ideal for intimate dinners and receptions.

Capacity

• Up to 40 guests for dinner.
• Up to 60 guests for a drinks reception.

Capacity

• Up to 100 guests for dinner
• Up to 150 guests for a drinks reception.

The Great Watching Chamber

The Great Watching Chamber acts as a more intimate counterpart to the adjoining Great Hall.

This intriguing room, where royal bodyguards once kept watch over the king and his guests, is available for both receptions and dinners.

The Orangery and Privy Garden

The Orangery, which was originally designed as a private greenhouse for William III, makes an ideal venue for elegant drinks receptions.

You and your guests can spill out into the immaculate Privy Gardens before making your way through the State Apartments to one of the palace’s glorious dining rooms.

Capacity

• Up to 250 guests for a drinks reception.

Capacity

• Up to 50 guests for lunch or dinner.
• Up to 80 guests for a drinks reception.

The Little Banqueting House

The Little Banqueting House is every bit as charming as its name suggests. With a peaceful setting amid the palace gardens, this picturesque dining room’s spectacular Baroque interior offers a classic backdrop for any reception, lunch or dinner.

You may also consider treating guests to a private tour of the palace before they sit for dinner.

The Garden Room

This bright, airy 1920s-style orangery opens out into a walled garden reserved exclusively for you and your guests. Available during the day, the Garden Room also makes an ideal base for groups wanting to explore the palace and have lunch in an extremely private and peaceful setting.

Capacity

• Up to 180 guests for lunch or dinner.
• Up to 300 guests for a drinks reception.

Discover more images of this venue here

Contact us

If you would like to hire Hampton Court Palace for your private event please call our team on +44 (0)20 3166 6507 to discuss your requirements.

Alternatively, you can fill out an enquiry form and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.