London Day Out

London keeps many jewels in its crown, and Hampton Court Palace is a particularly precious one. Located in Richmond upon Thames, not far from Central London, it is easily accessible by train from Waterloo Station. The best part: with a train ticket, you can claim a 2-for-1 offer for the palace entrance ticket.

Once a famous playground for the rich and noble since the 16th century, it is now a magnet for modern-day activities. It hosts one of the biggest flower shows in the country, summer music festivals, and a magical sparkling ice rink in winter.

It’s the perfect place for a solo or family day out, and especially for a romantic rendezvous.

The moment you enter the palace, you feel an intangible touch of magic, as if you are glancing into an era of kings and dark secrets.

Through the centuries, many have written extensively about Hampton Court, praising its architecture and the mystery of the place. Even Jerome K. Jerome expressed his love for this jewel in his comedic novel “Three Men in a Boat.”

It’s definitely worth visiting once—or twice. I’ve been to Hampton Court at least a dozen times with family, friends, and loved ones. Each time, it reveals something new to me. How did I miss that incredible medieval painting? And the hidden lane in the garden leading to the beautiful rose plants?

Hampton Court has become a favourite location for many costume dramas, including Vanity Fair, The Young Victoria, Pirates of the Caribbean, Cinderella, and Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, the Netflix prequel to Bridgerton.

The Maze is the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze. Commissioned around 1700 by William III, it covers a third of an acre and is known for confusing and intriguing visitors with its many twists and turns.

At Christmas, you can travel back in time and visit the palace when talented actors bring you into the 16th century, as Henry VIII strides through the rooms, urging the public to kneel down and chant: “God save the King!”

Sometimes, at the palace kitchen, you can buy the tastiest meat pie to munch on while you chill after your rich historical experience.

If you want to try something different, just a few steps away is the 17th-century Mitre Hotel, with a riverside bar and a delicious restaurant. Complete your day by sipping some wine while watching the graceful swans gliding on the river.