A wellbeing programme for people living with dementia and their carers

Coronavirus (Covid-19) update

In light of recent events and the current closure of Historic Royal Palaces' sites, the upcoming Sensory Palaces sessions have been cancelled. We hope to reschedule these at a later date and will update this web page with details when we know more.

Sensory Palaces sessions engage participants in sensory storytelling in the historic spaces of our palaces.

Each session provides a chance to explore stories from the palace, participate in fun activities and build social connections. Sessions are designed to enhance mental health and wellbeing, encouraging new learning opportunities in a safe and welcoming environment.

Sessions are free for participants. They are delivered by expert freelancers, skilled in supporting people living with dementia.

Our next sessions

William III: Music of the battlefield

This interactive musical workshop led by Olivia McClennan will provide an opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of the battlefield through percussion and song.

Date: Tuesday 07 April

Time: 10:30-12:30 and 14:00-16:00

Sensory Palaces Programme Evaluation 2018

An evaluation of the benefits for people living with dementia and their carers and the impact of the heritage setting.

Download summary report Download full report

Dementia-friendly palaces

We are committed to Historic Royal Palaces being a 'Dementia-friendly' heritage organisation.

We deliver the Alzheimer’s Society’s 'Dementia Friends' information sessions for our staff and volunteers to raise awareness and understanding of the disease so that we are better able to support people living with dementia at our palaces and in our communities. We are members of the Dementia Action Alliance in Richmond.

Dementia-friendly heritage group

We lead the Dementia-friendly heritage group, a peer network comprising 18 heritage sites across the UK who are committed to developing and sharing dementia-friendly heritage best practice. New contacts are more than welcome!