Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey
The first things that spring to mind when you think of Hampton Court Palace near London are Henry VIII and his 6 wives, and the maze. Ah, but there’s a lot more to Hampton Court than that, as you’d probably guessed, and it makes for a brilliant family day out, so go along, allow for the whole day there, and enjoy it. Of course, its most famous resident was indeed good King ‘Enry, and this is where it all happened in Tudor times, the plays, the masques and the dramas.
So go and see the famous hammerbeam roof and the Abraham Tapestries in the Great Hall, the huge fireplace and cauldrons in the Tudor Kitchens and if you’re brave enough, the Haunted Gallery. The gardens are spectacular, covering 60 acres and beyond them is the parkland and the River Thames. Of course you should go in the maze, it’s an absolute hoot, and besides, the kids will love it. There are tours and storytime adventures. There are cafes, a play area in the Magic Garden, and dogs are allowed in the informal gardens only.
Opening times vary throughout the year so please check the website before you go.
T: 033 3320 6000 (tickets) All information correct at the time of writing