Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to London.

Kensington Palace (winter)

10:00–16:00 · Wednesday to SundayLast entry 15:00. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays and 24–26 December; some Sundays open later

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the palace

Kensington Palace stands at the western edge of Kensington Gardens, facing the Broad Walk and the Round Pond.

• By Underground: Queensway (Central line) is about a 10-minute walk, and High Street Kensington (Circle and District lines) about 10 to 15 minutes; neither station is step-free.
• On foot: the palace is inside Kensington Gardens, so allow time to walk through the park to the entrance.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities.
• Lifts to all three floors.
• Kensington Gardens around the palace, free to walk in.
• The Palace Café inside, and the Orangery restaurant and tea room nearby.

Bring a warm layer if you plan to walk in Kensington Gardens before or after your visit. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

Kensington Palace has ground-level access from Kensington Gardens, and lifts reach all three floors. Wheelchairs can be borrowed, and there are accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities. Queensway and High Street Kensington stations are not step-free.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask palace staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy the palace thoughtfully

• Keep to the visitor paths, walk rather than run, and supervise children.
• Take care around the historic interiors, keep to the visitor route and follow staff guidance.
• Smoking is not permitted in the palace.
• Commercial photography and filming, including product promotion, need permission.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care helps protect the palace and its interiors for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Palace Café serves drinks and light meals, and the Orangery, built for Queen Anne in 1704, serves breakfasts, light lunches and teas.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Kensington Gardens is free to walk in before or after your visit.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: go to the palace entrance in Kensington Gardens and follow your ticket’s instructions.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, a warm layer and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow time for the King’s State Apartments, Victoria’s rooms and a walk in the gardens.