Kensington Palace stands in Kensington Gardens in west London, with parts of the royal residence open to the public. Its rooms trace royal life through the centuries, from the King’s Staircase and State Apartments to the rooms where Queen Victoria spent her childhood. Exhibitions bring royal clothing, art and personal histories into focus, and the gardens add space for a walk before or after your visit. The palace is still a working residence, so public access covers only selected areas.
From Nottingham House to a royal residence
The palace began as a Jacobean house built in 1605 for Sir George Coppin. It was first known as Nottingham House, and the surrounding area was then a village beyond central London. In 1689, William III acquired the property for himself and Mary II. They wanted a residence away from the fog and flooding near the River Thames.
The royal couple asked Sir Christopher Wren to enlarge and adapt the house. Over time, other monarchs added to its history. Kensington Palace was a favoured home of the sovereign until 1760, when George III became king and the court’s focus shifted elsewhere. The building later continued as a residence for members of the royal family.
Queen Victoria’s childhood rooms
Queen Victoria was born at Kensington Palace in 1819 and spent her childhood there. The rooms associated with her early life help explain the palace’s domestic side, beyond its formal royal apartments. Displays have included a recreation of a childhood Christmas, with toys and a banquet setting, as well as material connected to Victoria’s life and reign.
Victoria left Kensington Palace for Buckingham Palace after becoming queen in 1837. The rooms open to the public also include the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, where visitors can see decorated interiors and details such as the Cupola Room. Take time to look at the artwork and objects displayed throughout the rooms, not only the grand staircases and larger chambers.
Exhibitions, fashion and royal photography
Exhibitions add changing perspectives on the people who lived at Kensington Palace. A photography display has brought together portraits of the royal family, including Cecil Beaton’s official image of Queen Elizabeth II after her coronation, a 1988 portrait of Diana, Princess of Wales, by David Bailey, and photographs of Princess Margaret’s family in the palace gardens.
Royal dress and design are another thread in the palace’s displays. Exhibitions have ranged across clothing from different royal eras, including historic court dress and more recent designs. The subjects and objects change, so check what is showing when you plan your visit. The palace also remains a residence, and the private apartments are not part of the public tour.
FAQ
Can you go inside Kensington Palace?
Yes. Selected areas, including the State Apartments and exhibition spaces, are open to the public. The palace also contains private royal apartments.
What can you see at Kensington Palace?
The public rooms include the King’s Staircase, the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, and rooms connected with Queen Victoria’s childhood. Exhibitions cover royal history, clothing, art and photography.
Is Queen Victoria connected to Kensington Palace?
Queen Victoria was born at the palace in 1819 and spent her childhood there. She moved to Buckingham Palace after becoming queen in 1837.
