Hampton Court Palace & Tulip Festival

Approximate Journey Time: 2 Hrs 15 Mins

Time at Destination: 5 Hrs

Comfort Stop: Yes

Drop off Point: Green Coach Park

Your journey starts in morning from the local area. The coach will travel via the M3 to Hampton Court, arriving at approximatley 11.30. You will have plenty of time to take in the glorious gardens, exhibits and get some lunch. We will then depart at approximatley 16.30. There will be plenty of space in the hold on the coach for any purchases you make.

Experience the public dramas and private lives of Henry VIII, his wives and children in the world of the Tudor court. Admire Henry’s Great Hall and Tudor kitchens. Discover the spectacular baroque palace built for William III and Mary II and explore Hampton Court Palace’s outdoor spaces and 60 acres of magnificent gardens.

The original Tudor Hampton Court Palace was begun by Cardinal Wolsey in the early 16th century, but it soon attracted the attention of Henry VIII, who brought all his six wives here. Surrounded by gorgeous gardens and famous features such as the Maze and the Great Vine, the palace has been the setting for many nationally important events.

When William III and Mary II (1689-1702) took the throne in 1689, they commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to build an elegant new baroque palace. Later, Georgian kings and princes occupied the splendid interiors. When the royals left in 1737, impoverished 'grace and favour' aristocrats moved in.

Queen Victoria opened the palace to the public in 1838. It has remained a magnet for millions of visitors, drawn to the grandeur, the ghosts and the fabulous art collection.

Tulip Festival at Hampton Court Palace

From April - May each year, the gardens and courtyards at Hampton Court Palace become a kaleidoscope of colours as thousands of tulips bloom! A special trail guides visitors around the stunning displays, revealing the history of the tulips, believed to date back to Mary II (1662-1694). Their expert gardening team will also be on hand to provide tips and information to keen gardeners during their visit.