Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is located in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames on the River Thames, southwest of London, UK. Originally a royal residence of the British monarchy, the current Hampton Court has changed hands many times and is no longer a royal palace, but rather a famous public attraction in Britain.

Known as the "Versailles of England," Hampton Court Palace is a prime example of Tudor-style royal architecture. In 1514, Cardinal Wolsey purchased the area and began construction in 1515. The palace was built entirely in the Tudor style and featured 1,280 rooms, making it the most magnificent building in the country at the time. Later, due to Wolsey’s immense wealth, which provoked the king’s displeasure, the palace came into the possession of Henry VIII after Wolsey’s death in 1530. Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn took up residence here and began further expansions. King Edward VI was born in the palace, and it is said that Elizabeth I used it as a private love nest to escape the scrutiny of Parliament.

William III and his wife Mary commissioned architects from both England and the Netherlands to renovate the palace. By 1838, Queen Victoria officially opened the palace to the public. Noteworthy highlights include: the State Apartments — the most opulent section of the palace and an absolute must-see; the Great Hall; and the gardens — a classic English landscape garden that is elegant and serene, featuring a charming English hedge maze.

Hampton Court Palace

Must-visit reason: One of the most beautiful royal residences in Britain

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Britain[Britain]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Greater London [Greater London]

City where the attraction is located: London [London]