Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is a unique palace, one of the most luxurious in England. It is situated on the banks of the River Thames in the London borough of Richmond upon Thames. The palace is a former country residence of the British monarchs. It was founded in 1514 by Cardinal Wolsey and presented as a gift to Henry VIII. During the reign of Queen Victoria, Hampton Court Palace was opened to the public.

Ancient paintings and antiques are kept in the royal apartments of the palace. The Chapel Royal and the Great Hall are famous for their beautiful interior. Today, in the old huge kitchen, that used to be a luxury in former times, costumed presentations for visitors are held, a mystery of medieval recipes is cleared up. The amazing palace has managed to keep its medieval atmosphere with the elegant furnishings and rich history, mystery and legends. There is even a special register where anomalous phenomena are recorded. People say phantoms live in the palace.

Along with the rich architecture, Hampton Court Palace is well known for the world's first tennis court and amazing royal gardens. Europe's largest maze of bushes created in the 17th century is of particular interest.

The palace can be visited every day from 10am to 6pm in the warm season, from October to March – to 4:30pm. Entrance fee is about 18 pounds. From London Waterloo to Hampton Court you can go by train using South West Trains. You can also use bus services: 111, 216, 411, 461 or 513 from Kingston; R68 from Richmond.