Find the perfect stay near Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace serves as a historic residence for the British Royal Family and offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of past queens and kings. Walking through the King’s State Apartments allows visitors to see where grand ceremonies took place, while the beautifully kept gardens provide a peaceful escape from the busy streets of London. This Grade I listed building is a great place to explore the personal stories of notable figures like Queen Victoria, making it a brilliant spot for anyone who enjoys a mix of history and greenery.

If you want to explore the interior, you will need to book an entry ticket, as an entry fee applies. To avoid the busiest periods, try arriving for the first slot at 10:00 or visiting mid-week. Most people spend about 2 hours touring the various rooms and exhibitions. The site is fully accessible for wheelchair users, with lifts reaching all floors and manual wheelchairs available to borrow. Check the official site for current opening times and any seasonal changes before you head out.

Exploring the architecture and hidden gems

The building itself is a masterpiece of brickwork and elegant design, featuring the impressive King’s State Apartments and the more modest Queen’s State Apartments. You can walk through the Cupola Room, which is arguably the most lavish space in the house, or admire the grand King’s Staircase with its intricate wall paintings. Outside, the Sunken Garden is a favourite spot for many visitors, especially in the spring and summer when the floral displays are at their peak.

A look into the royal past

This house has been a home to the Royal Family since the 17th century, serving as the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. You can explore permanent exhibitions that detail her life and reign, seeing personal objects from her youth. The palace has witnessed centuries of political drama and private celebrations, evolving from a simple suburban villa into a sophisticated courtly residence. Each room tells a different story about the people who shaped the history of the United Kingdom.

Getting around Kensington Palace is straightforward, as it sits in a very well-connected part of West London. You will find a wide range of places to stay nearby, ranging from quiet residential streets to busier high streets.

Best areas to stay nearby

If you want to be as close as possible to the gates, look for accommodation in Kensington or South Kensington. This area is perfect if you enjoy a mix of high-end boutique hotels and grand townhouses. It feels quite posh but remains friendly, making it a great choice for families who want to be near the park. For those on a tighter budget, Bayswater sits just to the north of the gardens. It offers a more eclectic mix of smaller hotels and apartments, and you will be only a 10-minute walk from the palace grounds. Staying here gives you the benefit of being close to the greenery while having plenty of casual dining options on your doorstep.

How to reach the palace

The easiest way to arrive is via the London Underground, with High Street Kensington Station and Queensway Station both located roughly 500 metres from the garden entrances. If you are coming from Victoria Station, the journey takes about 15 minutes by bus or tube. Most paths through the surrounding Kensington Gardens are flat and paved, ensuring easy access for those with prams or mobility requirements.

It is easy to find your perfect base near Kensington Palace with Opodo. You can quickly look through different hotels to find exactly what you need, whether you want to stay 500 yards from the gates or closer to High Street Kensington Station. Spot great deals on hotels and pick the one that fits your style. Start your London adventure today and book a hotel that makes your trip special. Your ideal stay is just a few clicks away, so why not take a look and get excited for your visit?