Historic Royal Palaces - 2018-19 Group visits guide
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Group visits guide 2018-19
Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 1
Historic Royal Palaces is the independent Treat your groups Tower of
London
page 8
charity that looks after the Tower
of London, Hampton Court Palace, to over 900 years
Banqueting House, Kensington Palace,
Kew Palace, the Royal Kitchens at of secrets, stories
Kew, Queen Charlotte’s Cottage, and
Hillsborough Castle. We are pleased and and royal history at Hampton page 14
proud to welcome group visitors and help
them explore the stories of the monarchs some of the greatest Court Palace
and people who have shaped society in
some of the greatest palaces ever built. palaces ever built.
This Group Visits Guide is designed to give
group organisers inspiration for excursions
and days out and to make the process as Follow in the Banqueting page 20
seamless as possible. With so much to
uncover at so many attractions your only footsteps of the House
problem is which to choose first!
great, good, devious
How to use this guide
We have designed a helpful key to assist and dastardly, taking
Kensington page 26
in the planning of your group visit and
to ensure your customers have a fun home memories of Palace
packed day and make the most of their
time at the palaces. a great day out and
Look out for these icons on the Must See a desire to return
Attractions pages for each palace to
best tailor your group’s experience. again and again. Kew Palace page 32
Steps and uneven staircases
Wheelchair access
Youth groups – children, families,
multigenerational friendly
Hillsborough page 38
Large groups – space for large Castle
group visits
Small groups – suitable for groups
up to 20 people at a time
Private tours available on request At your service page 3
Gardens – activities for groups with Ticketing options page 4
an interest in gardens Catering page 6
Get social with us page 44
2 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 3
At your service
Historic Royal Palaces has a Sales Team to assist
group organisers in planning visits to the palaces
as well as advising coach and tour operators with
itinerary and excursion planning.
Sales support An alternative guide for Easy to get to
The Sales Team can help you international students For group visits all palaces have
with all your arrangements for Available at Hampton Court coach parking or pick-up and
your group’s perfect day out Palace and the Tower of London, drop-off facilities. All the London
including assistance with these strikingly designed, palaces can be reached by rail,
planning itineraries, advance self-directed guide packs are underground and four palaces
group ticketing service, suitable for ages 11+ and are by riverboat.
dedicated group ticket offices available in English, French and
Accessibility
and on-site catering. The sales German, plus an EFL version.
Our palaces welcome all visitors
team can also help you promote The resource will encourage
and we try to ensure that
and sell your tours and group discussion and
everyone’s visit is successful and
excursions with supplies collaboration, change the way
enjoyable. Registered disabled
of free leaflets, posters and international students engage
visitors are charged the relevant
images which can be with heritage sites whilst
ticket price and carers are
downloaded from www.hrp.org. satisfying a wide range of
admitted free of charge. As
uk/travel-trade interests. They will provide the
historical sites, our palaces do
perfect activity to complement
Free admission have uneven or cobbled surfaces
an educational visit.
Free admission is given at all and narrow staircases in places.
palaces to coach drivers, full Fanfare Full accessibility information
members of AGTO when Keep up with the latest news including wheelchair access and
bringing a group of at least 30 from Historic Royal Palaces information on sign language
paying visitors and locally through the dedicated tours can be found on our
registered Blue Badge Guides. publication for the group website www.hrp.org.uk
organiser.
Added value Website
Group discounts apply to parties Email groupsandtraveltrade@ Visit the dedicated group
of 15 or more (20 or more at hrp.org.uk to subscribe. planning pages on the Historic
Hillsborough Castle) and regular Royal Palaces website, www.hrp.
Quick Blast!
interpretation events are org.uk, for the latest information
Our mid-Fanfare e-update
included in general admission. and help in planning your
will focus on last minute offers
itineraries and group visits.
Money saving catering vouchers and early news of new
and group menus available in exhibitions and events.
palace cafes.
Email groupsandtraveltrade@
Admission voucher scheme and hrp.org.uk to subscribe.
account facilities for coach and
tour operators upon application.
4 hrp.org.uk
Ticketing options
Historic Royal Palaces have developed group
friendly ticket options that allow easy access to the
palaces for your customers and simplified payment
terms for volume Travel Trade suppliers.
Royal Pass Agency Voucher Scheme B2B login
One ticket to over 900 Our Agency Voucher Scheme Our voucher scheme clients can
years of royal history allows approved travel industry also benefit from our new B2B
This trade only, flexible companies to submit a voucher login system which allows palace
combination ticket offers for client’s admissions to the bookings to be made 24 hours a
unbeatable value and is available palaces, subject to minimum day, 7 days a week for the Tower
in three versions giving you spend requirements. of London and Hampton Court
choice and flexibility. The passes Palace. The system will issue an
A benefit of being a member
are valid for two years from the e-ticket that once printed will be
of our agency voucher scheme
date of issue for one visit per scanned at the point of entry,
means there is no need to
valid palace, therefore giving the cutting down queuing and
pre-book visits to the Tower
traveller flexibility to plan their allowing more time for
of London or Hampton Court
own itinerary. customers to enjoy the palaces
Palace however at the
whilst also streamlining the
Four Palace pass Banqueting House, Kensington
invoicing process.
Tower of London, Palace, Hillsborough Castle and
Hampton Court Palace, Kew Palace all groups must To register your interest
Banqueting House, reserve a time for entry. contact groupsandtraveltrade
Kensington Palace. @hrp.org.uk
Three Palace pass Online Group Ticketing
Tower of London, From early 2018, groups will also
Hampton Court Palace, be able to buy their tickets
Kensington Palace. through a simplified online
process via our website
Central London pass
www.hrp.org.uk. This new
Tower of London,
method will speed up the
Banqueting House,
booking procedure and offer
Kensington Palace.
discounts over the group
Royal Passes are exclusive to gate rate.
group organisers and Travel Trade
clients and cannot be purchased
at the palaces directly.
For details of pass prices contact
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk
6 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 7
Catering deals Retail
therapy
Our meal voucher scheme for groups Hampton Court Palace Kensington Palace Kew Palace
of 15 or more (20 or more for Tiltyard Café Catering services are not At Kew Palace groups
available at the Orangery this can arrange refreshments
Hillsborough Castle), provides great Option 1 – Morning tea or coffee
Served before 12.00hrs including season. In our alternative on-site with Kew Gardens
meal deal options across the palaces a freshly baked muffin or pastry.
£6.00 per person
catering space, the following caterers by calling
deals are available: +44 (0) 20 8332 5186.
throughout the day. Simply select the Option 2 – Light lunch
Breakfast
one that best suits your itinerary! A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic
Before 11.30hrs Hillsborough Castle
bread or a freshly made sandwich,
Start the day with a ‘Full English’ –
both with a choice of non-alcoholic Groups of 20+ may add to their
streaky bacon, field mushroom, vine
drink and a slice of cake.
£9.95 per person
tomatoes, sausage, black pudding visit with morning or afternoon
and scrambled eggs, including a tea served in one of our opulent
Option 3 – Hot lunch choice of tea or coffee.
£11 per person State Rooms.
Main course dish served from our
hot counter and a dessert pot or Cream tea
Morning Cream Tea
slice of cake with a choice of non- Served at 10.00hrs
Before 12:00hrs
alcoholic drink. Classic blends of tea or freshly Whether inspired by the iconic
Orange scented and currant scones
£13.95 per person ground coffee, served with black ravens or the legendary
served with Cornish clotted cream
and English strawberry jam. Served homemade shortbread and scones
Option 4 – Traditional Cream Tea with strawberry jam and fresh cream. Royal Beasts at the Tower of
A delicious homemade scone with with a range of loose leaf teas and
tisanes or coffee. £11.50 per person London, by the stunning gardens
strawberry jam and clotted cream
and your choice of tea or coffee. £6.50 per person Traditional afternoon tea at Hampton Court Palace or the
The Tower of London Perkin Reveller £6.25 per person
Afternoon Tea Served at 16.00hrs sumptuous ceilings and interiors
Overlooking the river Thames on the A selection of cakes, finger at Kensington Palace and
New Armouries Café historic Tower Wharf, the Perkin The Snug An assortment of sandwiches, an
orange scented scone served with sandwiches, homemade scones Banqueting House, our palaces
Reveller is a modern day dining hall Situated within the Tiltyard Cafe, the with jam and fresh cream,
Option 1 – Morning tea or coffee serving delicious food made from the Snug is a cosy private area perfect for Cornish clotted cream and English provide a unique shopping
Served before 11.00hrs including a strawberry jam and two afternoon complementing classic blends of
finest seasonal British ingredients. groups of up to 25 people to enjoy tea or freshly ground coffee. opportunity for your clients.
freshly baked muffin or pastry. Below is a range of offers to combine a light lunch, morning coffee or tea pastries served with a range of
£6.00 per person loose leaf teas and tisanes or coffee. £22.50 per person
with your group visit to the Tower, afternoon tea. Therefore, while planning your
anytime of day. £15.95 per person Add a glass of sparkling wine to
Option 2 – Light lunch Our caterers Ampersand will be itineraries, make sure to allow
A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic Lunch afternoon tea – £29.50 per person.
Morning Bacon Sandwich happy to discuss your group’s time for a visit to our royal shops
bread or a freshly made sandwich, and Coffee (before 12:00) £8.50 requirements, contact them directly Group lunch options are also available
both with a choice of non-alcoholic for further details. starting from £14.95 per person. where we offer a wide selection
Bacon Sandwich served with a range
drink and a cake or dessert. of loose leaf teas and tisanes or coffee Please contact our caterers to discuss of chinaware, jewellery, toys,
£9.95 per person Contact details your requirements. clothing, accessories and much
(vegetarian alternatives available).
Hampton Court Palace
Option 3 – Hot lunch Afternoon Tea £14.95 +44 (0) 20 3166 6972 Contact details more; all of which would make a
Main course dish served from the An assortment of sandwiches, hcp@ampersandcatering.co.uk Kensington Palace perfect souvenir of your clients’
hot counter with a dessert pot or +44 (0) 20 3166 6112
orange and currant scones served with trip as well as a great gift for their
slice of cake and a choice of
non-alcoholic drink.
Cornish clotted cream and English Banqueting House kp@ampersandcatering.co.uk
friends and family back home.
strawberry jam and a selection of
£13.95 per person afternoon tea pastries, served Whilst there are no on-site Contact our retail team on
Option 4 – Traditional Cream Tea with a range of loose leaf teas and catering facilities at the
tisanes or coffee. shop@hrp.org.uk to discuss
A delicious homemade scone with Banqueting House, close
strawberry jam and clotted cream delivery and discount rates for
Dinner by there are numerous bulk purchases.
and your choice of tea or coffee. Menus for 1, 2 or 3 course dinners
£6.25 per person restaurants, cafes and bars.
are available on request depending Visitors can also select products
Contact details on requirement.
from our in-store tablets and have
Tower of London Contact details
+44 (0) 20 3166 6002 gifts shipped direct to home.
Perkin Reveller
tol@ampersandcatering.co.uk +44 (0) 20 3166 6949 Don’t forget our full range
info@perkinreveller.co.uk
of palace inspired gifts can
be purchased online at
www.historicroyalpalaces.com
8 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 9
Tower of
This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site has
almost 1000 years of intriguing tales to tell.
Meet the Yeoman Warders, marvel at the
fabulous finery of the Crown Jewels and
London
discover an unrivalled collection of royal arms
and armour in the iconic White Tower. Explore
all the roles this impressive building has had to
play throughout the centuries- from medieval
palace and fortress to infamous prison and
execution site.
10 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 11
Must see attractions
Coins and Kings Fortress and
– the Royal Mint battlements
The history of English coin Enjoy great views over modern
making at the Tower, including London and the river Thames
Sir Isaac Newton’s efforts to rid from atop the walls. Groups can
London of counterfeiters when explore more of the Tower’s
he was warden of the Mint, and battlements giving a sense of
Edward I’s harsh punishments what it would have been like to
for people who tampered defend the Tower against
with his coins. potential attackers. Along the
route enjoy exhibitions
highlighting aspects of the
Tower’s past, including the role
Yeoman Warders Crown Jewels the Duke of Wellington played
whilst Constable of the Tower.
Yeoman Warders better The breath-taking world famous
White Tower known as the Beefeaters, collection of fabulous finery and
The White Tower is an enduring entertain the thousands of regalia – discover gloriously
icon of the London skyline, visitors that come to the Tower ornate intricately made Crown
Imprisonment Medieval Palace
albeit nowadays dwarfed by, throughout the year with their Jewels and learn how they have
Once a surprisingly comfortable
and in contrast to the modern guided tours and immense inspired acts of greed, violence at the Tower royal home here you will enter
city. This striking historic knowledge of this ancient and even spawned stories of
From spring 2018, explore the the rooms of Edward I and
building dating back to 1075 palace and fortress. evil curses.
Tower’s fascinating history as discover life in the opulence and
today houses the Line of Kings,
one of the country’s most colour of a medieval royal
displaying royal armour,
infamous prisons. The Bloody residence.
life-sized wooden horses and
Tower will tell the story of
figures of kings throughout
“high status” prisoners such
the centuries.
as Sir Walter Raleigh, whilst
an introductory exhibition at
the Beauchamp Tower will
The Ravens
reflect on the emotional One of the most famous sights
responses to imprisonment at the Tower, legend has it that if
conveyed through the they ever leave the Tower, the
Tower’s incredibly preserved kingdom will fall! The birds all
prisoner graffiti. have names and very different
characters, find out who’s who
next to their new lodgings on
the South Lawn.
Key
exhibition
2018
12 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 13
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Admission Recommended Booking memorable visit by booking a
prices visit time You do not have to book in
guided tour or private visit
et ahead of the
G advance when planning a group
crowd! A morning visit 01 March 2018 to
28 February 2019
We suggest at least 3 hours
visit to the Tower of London. If Opening Digital Visitor
avoids the crowds in
Individual
White Tower including
Line of Kings
you would prefer to book though,
please call +44 (0) 20 3166 6000
Ceremony Guides
peak summer months. Adult £26.00 40 minutes or email booking.confirmations@ Arrive at 08.45hrs to be
re-booked groups
P Concessions £19.90 Crown Jewels hrp.org.uk. From early 2018 you greeted by a Yeoman Warder Groups of 15 or more can
will also be able to book your and invited inside the Tower
can witness the Child £11.80 40 minutes pre-order our new digital visitor
group online via www.hrp.org.uk just before public opening to guides at a discounted price of
Opening Ceremony Family £64.80 Royal Beasts witness the Military Guard £3.50 per person. Guides can
from 08.45 Tues-Sat, 20 minutes
Opening times escort the Chief Yeoman be booked by contacting
see the military guard Group Rate Medieval Palace Warder along Water Lane towergroups@acoustiguide.
Adult £24.00 20 minutes Summer
opening the Tower 01 March to 31 October
to open the gates for all the co.uk and can be collected at
for the day’s visitors. Concessions £18.40 Bloody Tower visitors waiting outside! the entrance.
Tuesday to Saturday Available Tuesday – Saturday,
Child £10.90 15 minutes
09.00 – 18.00
he Ceremony of the
T Family N/A Coins and Kings Sunday and Monday
no additional charge. Private viewing of
Word takes place 20 minutes the Crown Jewels
outside the Waterloo Online Group Rate Yeoman Warder tour
10.00 to 18.00
Last admission 17.00
Group Welcome
Block daily at 14.45. Adult £21.00 45 minutes Talks Available in the morning
Winter from 08.15hrs experience the
See the inspection of Concessions £16.10
01 November to 28 February Book a 15-minute welcome talk stunning regalia away from
the military guard Child £9.50 Tuesday to Saturday for your group. A choice of a the crowds. Price based on a
and collection of the Family N/A 09.00 – 17.00 Yeoman Warder or Coins & minimum 15 people, from
secret word of the day. Sunday and Monday Kings warden to meet your £75 per person plus VAT,
Key 10.00 to 17.00 group and delight them with maximum 150, advanced
ave time in your
S atering
C Last admission 16.00 tales of the Tower or the payment required. Why not
facility
itinerary by pre- Closed 24, 25, 26 December Royal Mint at the Tower. take refreshments in the
Shops
and 01 January From £50 plus VAT per group, Perkin Reveller following
booking Meal Deal Coach Parks
availability varies season your private visit?
catering vouchers. Bureau
change
de Coach parking to season.
ackage your group
P oilets:
T
Gentleman
A 24-hour coach park with 16 Evening Tours
visits with guide bays (height restriction 4.7m/ Experience the Tower in a
oilets:
T
15’5”) is located in Lower Thames
books and take Ladies different light. Meet your
oilets:
T Street. Coaches can set-down Yeoman Warder at 20.30hrs
advantage of bulk Disabled
or pick-up passengers free of for an hour long tour around
buying in advance. P
verground
O
charge providing they remain
train line the Fortress before
nderground
U no longer than 15 minutes. The experiencing the ancient
train line charge is £10 per hour. Overnight Ceremony of the Keys. The
parking between 17.00 and cost is £30 per person plus VAT
Entrance 09.00 is £25. Contact car.parks@ for a minimum of 20, maximum
cityoflondon.co.uk (Prices 50 people, advance payment
correct at time of going to press). required.
Exit Perkin Reveller
14 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 15
Hampton
Hampton Court Palace is an
awe-inspiring and flamboyant showcase
for kingship. Its vast and never ending
vistas, courtyards, gardens and parkland,
Court Palace
along with its magnificent State
Apartments, rivalling the great palaces
of Europe, are designed to impress.
16 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 17
Must see attractions
Key
exhibition
Mantegna’s Georgian
2018 Triumphs of Kitchen Garden
Caesar See how the fruit, flowers and
vegetables were planted,
From June 2018
tended and harvested for the
Brought to England by King
kings table in the 18th century
Charles I these spectacular
in this enormous garden, full of
frescoes have been at Hampton
produce. Newly opened in
Court Palace since 1630.
Summer 2014 this garden
demonstrates the vast array of
Henry VIII’s fruit and vegetables enjoyed by
Kitchens the royal court at the palace.
Young
Hampton Court Palace’s
Tudor Kitchens will be Henry VIII’s Story
reanimated for 2018, Meet the pin-up prince – explore
recreating the well-oiled The Magic Garden the relationship between Henry
The Maze
machine that powered Henry This exciting garden is a and his first wife, Katherine of Commissioned around 1700 by
VIII’s magnificent court. This self-contained family focused Aragon and Cardinal Wolsey William III, this large and
will include grand displays of walled area with every feature with some of the most complex maze is one of the
food, authentic smells, the Henry VIII’s Privy Garden designed to be climbed upon, spectacular Tudor paintings oldest surviving hedge mazes
heat of the fireplaces, and the Apartments The Privy Garden is one of the including a jousting arena, five from the Royal Collection. in the country and covers a
sounds of the busy kitchen most accurately reconstructed tiltyard towers and a fire third of an acre – make sure
staff. To accommodate these Walk in the footsteps of
gardens at Hampton Court breathing dragon. With a focus your groups have their wits
exciting re-presentation England’s most famous King
because so much was recorded to engage children and families about them if they choose to
and his six wives. Lavishly
works, the kitchens will be
closed to visitors from 3 April presented the apartments
about the original 1702 garden. in history, this amazing, larger Cumberland brave it!
The beautiful geometry of than life outdoor attraction is a
until 5 May 2018. include Henry’s Great Hall, the
the garden seen against the perfect addition for groups
Art Gallery
Great Watching Chamber, the
stunning palace facade is a with children! Formerly an apartment
Council Chamber and the
site not to be missed. belonging to the Duke of
processional route, allegedly
Cumberland the new ‘art’ rooms
haunted by Catherine Howard,
King William III Henry’s fifth wife.
of the palace are the home to
masterpieces from the Royal
State Apartments The Great Vine Collection. Groups can discover
A grand and lavishly laid out the stories behind the artworks
Planted by Lancelot Capability so avidly collected by the 17th
collection of state apartments
Brown in 1768, this is the oldest and 18th century monarchs.
built by the new monarchs.
vine in the world. See the
Walk through the rooms of this
many bunches of grapes
elegant part of the palace and
develop through the summer
imagine the beautifully dressed
ready for harvest in late
courtiers revelling in the
August, early September.
politics and gossip of court
life. This is the best place to
view the magnificent King’s
Privy Garden.18 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 19
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Admission Recommended Opening memorable visit by booking a
prices visit time times guided tour or private visit
nhance your group
E
visit by booking a 01 March 2018 to
28 February 2019
We suggest at least 4 hours Summer
Mid-March to mid-October
Palace accredited
Palace Accredited
Individual
Henry VIII’s Apartments
40 minutes
Daily 10.00 – 18.00 Tour Guides
Guide for a tour of the Adult £22.40 Last admission 17.00
Henry VIII’s Kitchens Our team of accredited tour
palace and gardens. Winter guides can enhance your group
Concessions £18.00 40 minutes
Mid October to mid-March visit providing introductory or
ave time in
S Child £11.20 Young Henry VIII’s Story
Daily 10.00 – 16.30 in-depth tours of the palace
your itinerary by Family £55.10 30 minutes
Last admission 15.30 and gardens. Tours can be lead
pre-booking Meal Deal Mantegna’s Triumphs in costume and can be booked
catering vouchers. Group Rate of Caesar 20 minutes Closed 24, 25, 26 December for an hour and a half starting
Adult £20.70
William III’s Apartments at £132 per group. Ghost Tours
equest your
R Concessions £16.60 40 minutes
Booking Spook your group on
‘Today’s Programme’ Child £10.40 Queen’s State Apartments You do not have to book in Morning Saturdays and Sundays from
leaflet in advance by Family N/A 30 minutes advance when planning a group Courtyard and November – February, £27.50
emailing groupsand visit to Hampton Court Palace, per person or for private
traveltrade@hrp.org.uk Online Group Rate
Chocolate Kitchen
15 minutes
you can simply arrive and pay Cloisters Tours groups on request £1200 plus
Adult £18.10 on the day. If you would prefer VAT, maximum 35 people.
to ensure your group Cumberland Art Gallery to book prior to your visit, please
From 09.30hrs your group
doesn’t miss a thing Concessions £14.60 gets an early preview to the
30 minutes call +44 (0) 20 3166 6000 or waking palace on a tour with Digital visitor
during their day-out. Child £9.10 The Gardens 1 hour email booking.confirmations@
Family N/A hrp.org.uk
our State Apartment Warders guides
The Maze It depends....... starting in the gardens then
ampton Court Station
H
From early 2018 you will also be weaving through the palace
is in zone 6 and can be courtyards. Compare the Tudor
Key able to book your group online Available free of charge, digital
accessed using a via www.hrp.org.uk. and Baroque architecture and
atering
C visitor guides can be collected
Transport for London facility
marvel at the grand King’s and from the Information Centre in
zone 6 Travelcard or a
Shops
Coach Parks Coach parking Queen’s staircases. £100 per Base Court, providing a user-
prepaid Oyster card Bureau
de
Coach parking is available free
group plus admission, 35 friendly, modern way to explore
– see www.tfl.gov.uk
change people per warder. our stunning palace.
oilets:
T of charge for 8 coaches on
for more information. Gentleman
Hampton Court Green or at a
oilets:
T
Ladies cost of £15 per day at the coach
oach parking is free
C oilets:
T park next to Hampton Court
on Hampton Court Disabled
Railway Station. (Prices correct
verground
O
Green, a 15-minute train line at time of going to press).
walk from the main
entrance of the palace.
Coach parking is also Tiltyard Cafe
available at Hampton Georgian Kitchen Garden
Court Station for
a charge.20 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 21
Banqueting
This revolutionary building was created for
court entertainments, so imagine yourself as
part of the dazzling company of courtiers who
attended the exuberant court masques and
House
danced and drank beneath the magnificent
Rubens-painted ceiling. But spare a thought
for Charles I, who in 1649 was beheaded
outside on a scaffold to the ‘dismal, universal
groan’ of the crowd; these glorious paintings
were one of his last sights on earth.22 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 23
Must see attractions
Rubens ceiling
paintings
Marvel at the skill and
craftsmanship of the
magnificent Rubens ceiling
paintings, commissioned by
Charles I in 1629 to celebrate
the glorification of his father
James I. These are the only
Rubens paintings to remain in
their original location and were
unveiled at the Banqueting
House in 1635.
The story of
Admire the Whitehall Palace
architecture Explore the full story of
Whitehall Palace, once the
Admire the magnificent Sovereign’s main residence
architecture of the Banqueting and the largest palace in
House which was built and Europe told by DVD
designed by the renowned 17th presentation in the Undercroft.
century architect, Inigo Jones.
Portrait of Inigo Jones24 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 25
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Admission Opening times memorable visit by booking a
prices Year round
guided tour or private visit
nsure to pre-book
E Daily (except Thursdays)
your group entry time 19 April 2018 to
28 February 2019
10.00 – 13.00hrs Palace tour Hidden History
slot, so as not to be
Individual
Last admission 12.30 guides Talks
disappointed by an (open until 17.00 when no
Adult £6.50 Available on request, these Hidden History Talks run most
afternoon closure. evening events scheduled). fascinating tours are led by one days at 11.30hrs, subject to
Concessions £5.50
Banqueting House will be closed of our expert guides and availability of staff and are free
ime your visit to
T Child Free from 22 February to 18 April provide a more in-depth of charge. They are the perfect
coincide with a 2018 to accommodate account of Banqueting House’s way to bring the history of this
Hidden History talk at Online Group Rate
important conservation work. incredible history. Tours start extraordinary building to life.
Adult £6.00
11.30hrs with our expert from £132 per group and last
Closed 24, 25 and 26 December,
palace team. Concessions £5.10
01 January and all Thursdays
approximately 1 hour. The Handling
Child Free
ook a guided tour,
B throughout the year.
Audio Guides Collection
available on request Recommended Check afternoon opening Experience the thrill of holding
with our accredited at www.hrp.org.uk/ an authentic piece of history in
guides to get a greater
visit time BanquetingHouse/ Discover the incredible history your hands, whilst learning
We suggest 1 hour. planyourvisit/openingtimes more about it from an expert.
insight of this fantastic of Whitehall Palace with our
free audio guides. Call or email The handling collection runs at
building for your weekends and school holidays
in advance to reserve guides
group’s visit. for your group. subject to availability of staff.
eing a short visit,
B
Key
atering
C
Booking
facility
the Banqueting House Shops
To book group entry call
is ideal to package +44 (0) 20 3166 6000
Coach Parks
with other nearby or email booking.
Bureau de
change confirmations@hrp.org.uk
attractions such as the oilets:
T
Household Cavalry Gentleman
Coach parking
Museum, just across oilets:
T
Ladies
the road, the National There are 12 metered coach
oilets:
T
bays along the Victoria
Gallery or National Disabled
Embankment. Mon-Fri £4.00
verground
O
Portrait Gallery at train line
per hour 08.30 – 18.30hrs then
Trafalgar Square, and nderground
U
train line
free until midnight. Sat £4.00
Pier
why not take a break per hour 08.30 – 13.30hrs then
er
in the Café in the free until midnight. Free on
Westminst
Crypt at St Martin-in- Sunday. Coaches may set-down
and pick-up groups in Whitehall,
the-Fields. Churchill
if the palace is notified of coach
registration numbers and drivers
names 24 hours in advance of
the visit. (Details correct at time
of going to press).26 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 27
Kensington
A palace of secret stories and public lives,
Kensington Palace, situated in beautiful
parkland in the centre of London, was designed
as a royal residence for William III & Mary II
Palace
by Sir Christopher Wren.
More recently, it has been the official residence
to Princess Margaret, Diana Princess of Wales,
and is currently home to the Duke and Duchess
of Cambridge. The recently renovated visitor
routes reveal the surprising stories of many of
the palace’s inhabitants over the centuries.28 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 29
Must see attractions
Key
exhibition
2018
Diana: Her
Fashion Story
Discover the style evolution
of one of the world’s most
photographed women from
the demure, romantic outfits
of her first public appearances,
to the glamour, elegance and
confidence of her later life.
The display brings together an
extraordinary collection of
garments, from glamorous and
Palace Gardens Victoria glittering evening gowns worn
The beautifully transformed Revealed on state occasions to examples Kings State Queens State
of Diana’s ‘working wardrobe’
gardens reconnect the building
Explore the story of the in the 1990s. From 3 May 2018
Apartments Apartments
with the landscape of
woman behind the Crown, in the exhibition will showcase a Climb the magnificent King’s Explore the small intimate
Kensington Gardens providing
the rooms where Queen changing selection of exquisite Staircase where Georgian rooms where the great tale of
picturesque walks and
Victoria grew up. Discover and celebrated outfits from courtiers peer down on you, the Stuart dynasty reaches its
fantastic vistas. Our garden
through her own words her throughout the Princess’s marvel at the impressively tragic conclusion.
history tours are also available
lonely childhood at the palace, public life– including some decorated rooms and discover
for pre-booked groups.
her deep love for Albert and items never before on display the fashionable world of the
the dreadful impact of his at Kensington Palace! curious court of George II and
sudden death. Queen Caroline.30 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 31
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Admission prices Recommended Opening times memorable visit by booking a
01 March 2018 to 28 Feb 2019 visit time Summer
guided tour or private visit
Groups must book a 01 March to 31 October
Individual We suggest 2 hours
time slot for entry – you Adult £18.90 10.00 – 18.00hrs
will be welcomed by Victoria Revealed Last admission 17.00hrs
Concessions £15.00
one of our Palace 30 minutes
Child £9.45 Winter
Explainers. Kings State Apartments 01 November to 28 February
Group Rate 30 minutes 10.00 – 16.00hrs
Kensington Palace is Adult £17.40 Last admission 15.00hrs.
Queens State Apartments
a 10-15 minute walk Concessions £13.80 20 minutes Closed 24, 25, 26 December
from the coach park Child £8.70
on Bayswater Road –
Diana, Her fashion story
40 minutes
Booking
Palace including Diana Her
allow enough time for fashion story Group entry to Kensington
Palace Gardens
your group to arrive on 03 May 2018 – 2 Nov 2018 30 minutes
Palace must be booked in
time at the entrance. advance. Call +44 (0) 20 3166
Individual 6000 or email booking.
Adult £26.00
Avoid the crowds and confirmations@hrp.org.uk
Concessions £23.00
book a morning group
tour – at 09.00hrs. Child £18.00 Coach parking
Tours last an hour and Group Rate There is a coach park north of
cost £34 per person Adult £24.70 the palace on Bayswater Road.
including palace Concessions £21.90 Open 24 hours, it costs £35 for
Child £17.10 up to 12 hours, 12-24 hours £45,
admission. Maximum £10 fee if booking in advance.
30 people per tour. Pay and display, or pay by
Key
Take a stroll around the phone. Contact Euro Carparks
atering
C
020 7563 3000. Please allow
palace grounds in the facility
10-15 minutes for groups to
Shops
spring or summer to
view the beautiful
Coach Parks walk through Kensington Morning Garden History
Gardens to the palace entrance.
planting in the Sunken
Bureau de
change
For coaches with less able Tours Tours
oilets:
T
Garden in its full glory. Gentleman
passengers, please contact Join one of our Palace Led by our enthusiastic and
oilets:
T
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org. Explainers at 9.00hrs for a highly trained volunteers, the
Ladies uk for closer drop-off fascinating guided tour which garden history tours explore
oilets:
T arrangements. takes place an hour before how Kensington Palace’s
Disabled
nderground
U the palace opens. After the gardens would have looked in
train line tour, discover more of the the 17th and 18th centuries.
palace at leisure as it opens Available at no additional cost
to the public from 10.00hrs. to palace admission, they must
£34 per person, no minimum be pre-arranged for groups.
numbers, maximum 30
per tour. Tour available
Wednesday to Friday.32 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 33
Kew Palace
This intimate palace brings to life the joys and
sorrows of George III and his family in detail,
from his children’s lives to his own hardships.
Fascinating personal artefacts and art works
adorn the authentically recreated Georgian
rooms in which the stories unfold.
Wander through the eerie upper floor, left
untouched for centuries and discover the
eating habits of the royal household in the
Royal Kitchens.34 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 35
Must see attractions
Queen Charlotte’s
cottage
Situated in Kew Gardens, and
open at weekends in the
summer months this is where
the royal family enjoyed picnics
Royal Kitchens The Great Pagoda and tea parties during long
summer walks through the
at Kew at Kew gardens. Built as a country
Discover the ingredients and The Great Pagoda within Kew retreat, and not a residence
methods used to prepare food Gardens will finally be unveiled this is a perfect example of
for the royal table and enter the and reopened to visitors in historic royals at play, and
Clerk of the Kitchens office to spring 2018, complete with 80 relaxing behind closed doors.
find out what was ordered each specially designed rooftop
Princess’s Queen’s Boudoir day in the re-created ledger. dragons and a new dragon
themed walk from the palace
Bedroom In this well-appointed
to the pagoda.
room the Queen and her
George III’s daughter Princess
companions would spend
Elizabeth decorated her
hours at ‘women’s work’,
bedroom in the latest styles of
the day. Come and decide
such as needlework, spinning Life cast of
wool and knotting.
what you make of her interior George III
design skills! View her restored
A wax facial life-cast of
bedroom alongside the un-
George III created by
restored rooms of other
princesses from that era,
The King’s Madame Tussaud herself.
including original features. Dining Room
Discover what some guests
had to say about the King’s
hospitality.36 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 37
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Admission prices Recommended Opening times memorable visit by booking a
01 March 2018 – visit time Kew Palace
guided tour or private visit
re-book your group
P 28 February 2019 29 March – 30 September 2018
admission time slot for Kew Palace and Royal Kitchens
4 hours
Daily 10.30 – 17.30hrs, Palace and Curious Kew
Palace
Kew Palace when are included in admission to Kew 1 hour
last admission 17.00hrs kitchens tours evening tours
booking Kew Gardens Gardens. Please visit www.kew. The Royal Kitchens
Royal kitchens Intimate tours at this palace Starting with a glass of wine
as the palace can get org or contact groups@kew.org
40 mins
29 March – 30 September 2018 are available and include the at 18.30, enjoy a tour of this
very busy. for prices and bookings. Daily 10.30 – 17.30hrs, Royal Kitchens with our charming royal palace,
Queen Charlotte’s cottage last admission 17.00hrs
Admission to climb the Great 30 mins costumed palace experts, including the Royal Kitchens.
or a personally
F Pagoda carries an additional Queen Charlotte’s Cottage £6 per person. £15 per person plus VAT
guided tour of the (summer weekends only)
fee, payable on the spot. Weekends and Bank Holidays minimum 10, maximum 30.
palace, book one of Kew Gardens
throughout the summer
2 hours
our costumed palace 11.00 – 16.00hrs.
The Great Pagoda
experts for £6 The Great Pagoda
30 mins
per person. 29 March – 30 September 2018
Daily 10.30 – 17.30hrs,
on’t forget to visit
D last admission 17.00hrs
Queen Charlotte’s
Kew Gardens
Cottage nestled in the Open daily from 10.00.
bluebell woods, in the Please check www.kew.org
year that marks the for closing times.
200th anniversary
of her death. Booking
To pre-book your joint visit to
isitors to Kew Palace
V Key Kew Gardens and Kew Palace
this year will also atering
C and Royal Kitchens contact
find new themes facility
groups@kew.org or call
Shops
to explore as we Coach Parks
+44 (0) 20 8332 5648.
celebrate the family
who built and enjoyed
ELIZABETH GATE Bureau de
change Coach parking
the Pagoda; George III, oilets:
T
Gentleman
Groups can drop off and pick
The Great Pagoda
Queen Charlotte and oilets:
T up at the Elizabeth Gate at
Ladies Kew Green. Coach parking is
their children. oilets:
T free of charge on Kew Road
Disabled
after 10.00hrs.
nderground
U
train line
S
EN
RD
GA
W
KE
LONDON OVERGROUND38 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 39
Hillsborough
Hillsborough Castle is the official Northern
Ireland residence of the Royal Family. With
many stories to tell and exquisite gardens to
explore Hillsborough is not to be missed!
Castle40 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 41
Must see attractions
State Rooms Hillsborough Immerse yourself
Explore the seven newly Castle Gardens in history
re-presented State Rooms,
Wander through 100 acres of Discover the more intimate
sumptuously decorated to
beautiful gardens, developed side of the castle with a visit
reflect the personal charm of
from the 1780s onwards, to the Downshire Gallery to
Hillsborough’s residents from
offering a contrast of engage with the multitude of
the 1780s onwards. From the
ornamental grounds, peaceful visitors from all walks of life
castle’s origins as the home of
woodland, meandering who have been guests at
the Marquesses of Downshire,
waterways, and trimmed Hillsborough over the past
to its life as the official royal
lawns. Look out for the Lime 250 years.
residence and its pivotal role in
Tree Walk, Granville Garden,
the Irish Peace Process, groups
the Lady Alice Temple, the
can learn about the fascinating
Quaker Burial ground and an
past of this remarkable building
Ice House.
and its characters.42 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 43
Plan your visit... Guided tours and
days out ideas
Give your groups an even more
Top tips Admission prices Recommended memorable visit by booking a
Castle Tour (including Garden admission) visit time guided tour or private visit
xplore how
E 01 July 2018 to 28 February 2019 Individual Group
2 hours
Historic Royal Palaces Adult £9.50 £8.80
are transforming Guided Castle tours 45 minutes
Concessions £7.50 £6.90
more than 100 acres Guided Garden tours 1hr 30min
of beautiful Child £6.00 £5.60 Gardens Access unlimited
Royal Gardens at Family £25.00 N/A access during opening hours
Hillsborough Castle.
Gardens access only Opening times
hy not expand your
W 01 July 2018 to 28 February 2019 Individual Group
Pre-booked group Castle Tours
groups understanding Adult £5.00 £4.60 1 July 2018 – 28 February 2019
of how this beautiful Concessions £4.00 £3.70 Available daily
house and estate Child £3.50 £3.20 Public Guided Tours
have influenced the of the Castle
Family £15.00 N/A
development of the July – September 2018
exquisite village of Daily tours from 10.00 –
Hillsborough, including 16.00hrs (on the hour)
October 2018 – February 2019
a visit to the Court
Wednesday - Sunday
Castle Tour Christmas at
House and Fort. 10.00 – 15.00hrs (on the hour) Hillsborough
Guided tours lead groups
hilst we work to
W through the sumptuous
Gardens access Throughout December 2018,
State Rooms, including the
develop a new car and July – September 2018 the Castle will travel back in
Throne Room, State Dining
coach park, coaches Courthouse Fort 09.30 - 17.00hrs
Room and State Drawing
time to the 1890s, when the
entrance October 2018 - February 2019
can drop off and pick Castle composer Lady Arthur Hill was
Room. A sensory experience
09.30 - 16.00hrs in residence. Guests will have
up groups at the Court Gardens
Please note last admission to the
with authentic music, tours
the opportunity to sample the
House building outside gardens is 1 hour before closing.
can be tailored to suit a
delights of a traditional Irish
the main entrance to group’s particular interests
Victorian Christmas, as the
and passions.
the castle. Group bookings family and servants prepare
for the annual Christmas Bazaar
dd value to your
A Group bookings for castle and Garden Tour and Twelfth Night celebrations.
group’s visit by booking garden tours must be made Hillsborough Castle Gardens
at least 48 hours in advance,
one of our catering minimum 20 people.
can be enjoyed year round
offers following their on a self-guided basis as part
To book your castle or gardens of a Castle Tour ticket.
castle tour. See page 7 However, those with a passion
tour call +44 (0)28 9268 1300
for more details. or email hillsboroughgroups@ for horticulture may want
hrp.org.uk to prearrange a tailored
Garden Tour with one of
Coach parking our Garden Guides.
Coach parking at the Court
House is reserved for
pre-booked groups.44 hrp.org.uk Call Travel trade +44 (0)20 31666311 45
Get social with us!
Historic Royal Palaces have even Contact details
more ways for you to access regular Buy tickets for 15 or more people
updates and to take part in T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6000
conversations about the past, E: booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk
present and future of our palaces, Online Group Ticketing coming soon
our work and your group visits. Find out more about the palaces
www.hrp.org.uk
Join our online
Ask the Travel Trade Team
communities... T: + 44 (0) 20 3166 6311
For historical insights, forthcoming events and E: groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk
behind-the-scenes access to the palaces and the Images of the palaces
people that tell their stories, like us on Facebook, www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
follow us on Twitter, join our Linked In group or
watch our videos on YouTube. Souvenirs and shopping
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6848
E: shop@hrp.org.uk
www.historicroyalpalaces.com
Corporate gifts:
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6857
E: corpgifts@hrp.org.uk
Parties and events
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6399
E: events@hrp.org.uk
www.hrp.org.uk/hireavenue
Terms and conditions and admissions should be escorted by adults/ Whilst every care is exercised in the compilation
Pricing validity is from 01 March 2018 to 28 seniors to the ratio of 1-6 for up to 6 years old and of this manual, HRP or any individual palace
February 2019. Historic Royal Palaces retain the 1-10 for 7-16 years at all palaces. Groups of children cannot be held liable for any information that is
right to adjust prices during this period, should booking the standard rates should be escorted inaccurate or subsequently changed.
circumstances dictate. adults/seniors to the ratio of 1-15 for 6 years and up. Support materials (which are generally available
Payment may be made by cash, major credit It should be noted that Historic Royal Palaces free of charge) such as leaflets and images are
cards (excluding Diners Card) and via the (HRP), or any individual palace, may at any Crown Copyright and should only be used for
Agency Voucher Scheme. time alter the opening times and /or availability the purpose stated and not altered in any way
of access to any palace. In the event of palace without express written agreement from HRP.
A child is defined as aged between 5 years and 15 closure any pre-paid groups will receive a full
years old. Children visiting the Magic Garden over Historic Royal Palaces is a registered charity
refund of monies paid, but neither HRP nor (number 1068852)
the age of 3 will be charged. Students 16 years and any individual palace will be liable for any
over may obtain concessionary admission if they consequential loss arising from such closure.
have student identification. Senior citizens (60 HRP or any individual palace reserve the right to
and over) are admitted at the concessionary rate. withdraw from public access any route, room or
Groups of children booking our Education sessions area within a palace or its grounds without notice.Hillsborough Castle www.hrp.org.uk
You can also read
