Not actually in London itself, but in Middlesex - contained within the area of Greater London. However, Middlesex is an historic ceremonial county, so in my mind, worthy of its' own page. Many people include it in an exploration of what London has to offer.
HAMPTON COURT PALACE
HAMPTON COURT PALACE
Hampton Court is a Tudor palace, magnificently developed by Cardinal Wolsey and later Henry VIII, alongside a baroque palace built by William III and Mary II. Today, as well as a major tourist attraction, it also houses 'grace & favour' apartments for retired Royal staff. The grounds are magnificent and include a maze.
Entry is through this magnificent gatehouse into a great courtyard. The palace is huge, and the gardens immense. It really would take too long to fit it all in in a day, so it's best to work out which are your 'must sees'. Mind, they do give you a free map when you arrive!
The base courtyard is where the royal courtiers and guests were accommodated. There were around 1,000 people at court during Henry's reign, so things got a bit crowded!
These have been converted into 'grace and favour' apartments, so are not open to the public.
The 16th. century astronomical clock
Henry VIII took possession of the palace in the 1520s, from Thomas Wolsey, his then Lord Chancellor.
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