From 3 April until 27 September 2020, and included in admission to Kew Gardens, groups can explore; Kew Palace, the Royal Kitchens and at weekends and bank holidays, Queen Charlotte’s Cottage.
Kew Palace
Visitors can explore the intimate family home of King George III and Queen Charlotte. Wander through the Queen’s Boudoir where Queen Charlotte would spend her time knotting and see what guests had to say about the king’s hospitality in The King’s Dining Room. Visitors can also take to the top floor, once the princess’s bedrooms, to see how the palace has survived centuries untouched and compare them to the beautifully restored rooms below.
New for 2020 – George III: The Mind Behind the Myth
2020 marks 200 years since the death of King George III. George grew up in the palace and, for many years, it was a happy family home. However, in later life, it became a place of incarceration and treatment for the king during his “illness”. This display throughout the palace rooms will celebrate the king’s many achievements and shines light on the often cruel treatment he endured at the hands of his doctors. Through various objects relating to the king himself, groups will discover the real man behind the much-peddled myth.
Queen Charlotte’s Cottage
Open weekends and bank holidays 3 April-27 September 2020
This beautiful rustic cottage in the grounds of the palace was created for Queen Charlotte. The family often enjoyed informal picnics and afternoon teas away from the hustle and bustle of public life. Step inside this hidden gem and discover the quaint 18th century royal retreat.
The Great Pagoda
Recently restored to its 18th century grandeur, the Great Pagoda offers spectacular views of London to those brave enough to climb the 253 steps to the top. Whilst climbing to the top, visitors will learn the purpose of the Pagoda and how it was used by the Royal Family in the 18th century. An additional ticket is required to climb the Pagoda and can be bought upon arrival.
Costumed Explainer Tours
Groups can make the most of their visit by booking an intimate daytime guided tour of the palace. During the tour visitors will also discover the ingredients and methods used to prepare food for the royal table in the Royal Kitchens, situated just outside the palace to prevent the smells invading the house! Tours are £6 per person.
Looking for something a bit more exclusive? Escape the crowds and book either an early morning or evening tour of the palace. These tours are completely bespoke to your client’s individual needs. Learn of the happy and sad times of King George III, Queen Charlotte and their fifteen (yes fifteen) children and discover what it took to feed the Royal Family in the Royal Kitchens. Your clients can, should they choose, climb the 253 steps of the Great Pagoda for spectacular views of London or escape to the peaceful Queen Charlotte’s Cottage, nestled within the Bluebell Woods.
Morning and Evening Tours of Kew Palace or the visit to the Great Pagoda and Queen Charlotte’s Cottage costs £650 + VAT for up to 10 people, thereafter an additional £65 + VAT per person. Add on the Royal Kitchens tour for and additional half an hour at £10+VAT per person. Early morning tours take place 09.00-10.00hrs and the evening tour takes place at 18.00-19.00hrs.
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