Haunted Gallery and Processional Route

Walk Henry VIII’s route from his private apartments to the Chapel — now lined with portraits of Tudor monarchs — and see the infamous Haunted Gallery in the State Apartments at Hampton Court Palace.

Experience the Haunted Gallery

In 1541, Catherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife, discovered that she was to be charged with adultery — a charge for which her predecessor, Anne Boleyn, had been executed.

Legend has it that the terrified young queen broke free from her guards and ran along what is now called the Haunted Gallery in the hope of finding Henry in the Chapel, to plead her innocence.

Just before Catherine reached the door, she was seized by guards who took her screaming back to her rooms.

Catherine was executed at the Tower of London three months later; her body still lies in the Chapel Royal of St Peter Ad Vincula, within the Tower walls.

Catherine’s ghost can, allegedly, be seen running through the Haunted Gallery at Hampton Court Palace, screaming for mercy.

The Processional Route and Tudor portraits

The King's 'Coming Forth' from his private apartments to the Chapel, on Sundays and special holy days, became the principal occasion when Henry VIII made himself visible to his wider court.

Today, the route is lined with portraits of Henry and his family, including his father Henry VII, his mother Elizabeth of York and his children.