Trifter

KENSINGTON Palace, first adapted as a royal residence by Sir Christopher Wren in 1689, has been home to several charismatic royals. It has been the abode of William and Mary, Anne, George 1 and George II. Victoria lived there until she became Queen in 1837. It has been the home of those two royal glamour girls of the 20th Century, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales

The elegant Victorian Rooms are at the art of the palace. Visitors are able to stand in the bedroom in which Victoria was woken and told that she was now Queen.

William and Mary added the magnificent State Apartments to Kensington Palace, These rooms showcase many of William Kent’s greatest works. Visitors who climb the King’s Staircase can see the face of Peter the wolf Boy and a self portrait by Kent.

They are able to explore this series of state rooms, which include the Cupola Room in which Queen Victoria was christened. There are also the queen’s Apartments, where Mary II was able to relax with her closet friends, including Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough.

The Orangery, once the venue for lavish court entertainments, is now a café, which serves lunches and afternoon teas There are benches available for those people who wish to bring a picnic.

Kensington palace stages many exhibitions. One of the most popular is the unique collection of photographs of Diana, Princess of Wales that were taken by her favourite photographer, Mario Testino and a stunning array of some of her most exquisite evening dresses.

The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection features a stunning display of English court dress, that has been added to by each Royal Generation from the 18th Century to the present time. Visitors can explore the replica dressmaker’s workshop and the colourful tailor’s shop that create an exciting background to this exhibition.

Kensington Palace has two exclusive shops that offer a wide range of books, gifts, souvenirs and postcards.

Audio guides giving first hand historic accounts and stories of the palace and its fantastic collections and exhibitions in a wide range of languages are included in the admission price.

The palace is open from 10:00 to 18:00 (last admission at 17:00 from March 1 to October 31 and 10:00 to 17:00 (last admission at 16:00 between November 1 and February 28

Further information can be obtained from 0870 9504466