Royal School of Needlework

The Royal School of Needlework (RSN) is the international centre of excellence for the art of hand embroidery. Founded in 1872, the RSN celebrated its 150th anniversary last year, with the last 36 years based at Hampton Court Palace.

Although not usually accessible to visitors, the RSN is integral to the palace and therefore opens its doors for special events throughout the year.

The RSN's exhibitions will open your eyes to the stunning world of hand embroidery, displaying pieces from its historical archive and collection through to contemporary work created by its current students and graduates.

When

Selected events January - May 2024

Ticketing information

Tickets to all events can be booked on the Royal School of Needlework website.

Separate ticket

Visit the RSN website

Events

Special Display

The Royal School of Needlework & Five Coronations 1902 – 2023

This special display will feature archive items from the RSN’s experience of working on five coronations including the official images taken of some of the RSN team at work in 1902, 1937, 1953 and 2023.

Given that the coronation items themselves are now the property of their Royal owners and the Royal Collection, this exhibition features our role in the event behind the scenes from designs, including some not used, to interesting left overs and souvenirs from fabrics to needle cleaners.

Also included will be images from past coronation exhibitions in which the RSN was involved. From the most recent coronation, there will be images of work in progress and of some of the team who worked on it alongside the sampling. This is a fascinating glimpse into how some of the amazing items seen on the day were created.

The exhibition will run on set days until 23 May 2024. Please book through the RSN website.

Image: RSN Embroidery Studio working on Her Majesty Queen Camilla’s Robe of Estate

Book on the RSN website