Hampton Court Palace: Guided Tour & Afternoon High Tea

Summary

Wander palace halls hear Tudor tales then share high tea by the river

You’ll step straight into royal history at Hampton Court Palace with a local guide who brings old stories to life. Explore grand halls and gardens at your pace after the tour, then settle down for riverside afternoon tea with freshly baked scones and cakes. It’s more than facts—it’s laughter, quiet moments, and flavors you’ll remember long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed at Hampton Court Palace was the smell — old stone mixed with damp grass and something sweet from the kitchens. Our guide, Sarah, waved us over near the main gate (she had this bright scarf, easy to spot in the shuffle). She started off with a story about Henry VIII’s favorite wine fountain — apparently people still ask if it works. We all laughed, even though some of us were still half awake from the train ride out from London. I didn’t expect to feel so small under those huge ceilings or to hear my own footsteps echo back at me in the long gallery.

We wandered through rooms that looked like they’d swallowed centuries. Sarah pointed out little things I’d have missed — like how the tapestries change color in different light, or how you can still see fingerprints in some of the old tiles. There was a moment in the chapel when sunlight hit the stained glass just right and everything went quiet except for a distant bell. I caught myself thinking about all the stories these walls must’ve heard, especially during those wild Tudor years. The guided tour lasted about two hours but honestly it felt shorter; there was always another odd detail or bit of gossip from royal life.

Afterwards we had time to wander on our own — I got lost in the gardens for a while (don’t trust me with a hedge maze). Then came afternoon tea by the river. The scones were warm, cream thick enough to stand your spoon in, and someone at our table tried to explain “the proper way” to layer jam and cream (I still don’t get it). The tea itself tasted different here, maybe because Sarah kept sharing stories about how it became England’s thing. It felt oddly special just sitting there watching boats drift past outside while everyone swapped their favorite room or odd fact from inside. Honestly? I still think about that view sometimes when I make tea at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hampton Court Palace tour and tea

• Meet at the designated meeting point
• Join 2-hour guided palace tour
• Explore gardens and outdoor spaces
• Enjoy afternoon tea in riverside venue

Top questions

How long is the Hampton Court Palace guided tour?

The guided portion lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours before free time for independent exploring.

Is afternoon tea included in this Hampton Court day trip?

Yes, afternoon tea is included with freshly baked scones and cake served riverside after your tour.

Can I explore Hampton Court Palace on my own after the tour?

Yes, you have full day access to both palace interiors and gardens after your guided experience ends.

Are children’s teas included in this package?

No, child teas are not included but can be purchased separately at the venue if needed.

Is this Hampton Court Palace tour suitable for wheelchairs?

This tour is not recommended for wheelchairs or electric buggies due to steps inside the palace.

Does this include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet your guide directly at Hampton Court Palace.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted throughout Hampton Court Palace and on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes full entry to Hampton Court Palace and its gardens, a friendly local guide leading you through royal history for about two hours, plus reserved seating for afternoon high tea by the river—freshly baked scones and cakes included (child teas available for purchase onsite).