Nestled at the western edge of Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace is one of London’s most fascinating royal landmarks. For over 300 years, it has been both a family home for monarchs and a public destination where visitors can step into Britain’s royal story.
A Palace of Royal Beginnings
Originally built in the 17th century for the Earl of Nottingham, the palace was purchased by King William III and Queen Mary II in 1689. The royal couple wanted a residence away from the damp and smoky air of Whitehall, and Kensington provided a healthier retreat. From then on, the palace became closely tied to Britain’s monarchy.
Perhaps most famously, Queen Victoria was born here in 1819. She spent her childhood in the palace under the strict “Kensington System” imposed by her mother. When she became queen in 1837, her first act was to move to Buckingham Palace but Kensington remained deeply significant in her life.
Today, the palace is still a working royal residence, housing members of the royal family including the Prince and Princess of Wales.
What to See Inside Kensington Palace
- The King’s State Apartments: Grand reception rooms designed for entertaining, filled with beautiful Georgian architecture.
- The Queen’s Apartments: Once the private living quarters of Queen Mary II, showcasing ornate furnishings and paintings.
- Victoria: A Royal Childhood Exhibition: Explore the rooms where Queen Victoria grew up, complete with personal belongings, letters, and toys.
- The Sunken Garden: Famous for its floral displays and recently redesigned to honor the late Princess Diana with the Diana Memorial Statue.
Why Visit?
Kensington Palace offers a unique blend of living history and modern royalty. Unlike Buckingham Palace, which opens seasonally, Kensington provides year-round access to exhibitions that bring royal life to light.
📍 Location: Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX
🎟️ Tickets: Around £20 for adults, with discounts for children and concessions.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit in spring or summer to enjoy the gardens at their most spectacular, or time your visit with one of the rotating exhibitions on royal fashion or history.
5. The Royal Albert Hall: London’s Cultural Crown Jewel
Just across from Kensington Gardens, you’ll find one of London’s most recognisable buildings: the Royal Albert Hall. With its iconic domed roof and striking red-brick façade, it has been the stage for world-class performances for over 150 years.
A Gift to the Nation
The hall was commissioned by Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, as part of his vision to promote the arts and sciences in Britain. Sadly, he died before it was completed, and when Queen Victoria opened the venue in 1871, she named it in his memory.
Since then, the Royal Albert Hall has been at the heart of London’s cultural life. From classical concerts to pop shows, tennis matches to political debates, the variety of events hosted here is unparalleled.
A Venue Like No Other
- The Proms: The BBC Proms an eight-week summer festival of daily classical concerts has been held here since 1941. It’s one of the most famous music festivals in the world.
- Legendary Performances: Everyone from The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix to Adele and Beyoncé has performed under its dome.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Guided tours reveal the backstage secrets, the Royal Retiring Room, and even the echoing corridors under the stage.
Architectural Splendour
The circular design of the hall is inspired by ancient Roman amphitheatres. The great glass and wrought-iron dome was the largest in the world at the time of construction. Inside, the auditorium can seat over 5,000 people, and its acoustics once infamous for echo — were perfected with “mushroom” diffusers installed in the 1960s.
Why Visit?
Whether you’re attending a concert, taking a tour, or simply admiring the building from outside, the Royal Albert Hall is a must-see. It embodies London’s reputation as a global centre for culture and performance.
📍 Location: Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP
🎟️ Tours: Around £20 per adult, with special packages for afternoon teas and behind-the-scenes experiences.
💡 Insider Tip: Even if you don’t attend a performance, book an afternoon tea in the Hall’s café for a unique experience overlooking this Victorian masterpiece.