VIP Kensington Palace Gardens Tour & Royal Tea Crown Experience

Exploring Kensington Palace Gardens on this VIP guided tour combines history, royal elegance, and a delightful culinary experience. Priced at $157.85 per person, the approximately 2-hour journey offers an inside look at one of London’s most iconic royal residences and its stunning grounds. The tour includes timed entry tickets to Kensington Palace (if the upgrade is selected), access to the State Apartments, Royal Gardens, and a sumptuous afternoon tea at the historic Orangery. This experience is ideal for those with an interest in the British Royal Family and British history, providing both educational insights and a taste of royal leisure.

A key feature of this tour is the ability to explore the exterior of Kensington Palace, where visitors learn about its notable residents, including Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth II, and King Charles. The tour also offers a walk through Kensington Gardens, giving a chance to see the Sunken Garden and the Princess Diana statue, making it perfect for fans of royal stories and picturesque scenery.

One of the most praised aspects of this experience is the Royal Tea at the Orangery, where guests indulge in cakes, sandwiches, and a choice of up to 10 different English teas. The combination of a historical tour with an elegant afternoon tea makes for a memorable, well-rounded visit. While the tour involves some walking and uneven surfaces, it remains accessible and suits those comfortable on their feet.

Key Points

• Includes a guided exterior tour of Kensington Palace with optional access to the State Apartments and Royal Gardens
• Enjoy a luxurious Royal Tea with sandwiches, cakes, and up to 10 English teas
• Visit Kensington Gardens, including the Sunken Garden and the Princess Diana statue
• Guides are highly knowledgeable, providing detailed stories about the Royal Family and the history of the Palace
• The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and includes timed tickets if the upgrade is chosen
• Suitable for visitors interested in British royalty and history, with moderate physical activity required

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in London

This tour begins at the Hilton London Hyde Park at 129 Bayswater Rd, a convenient location near public transportation. The group size is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere. It concludes at the Orangery Restaurant within Kensington Palace Gardens, where the Royal Tea takes place.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking across uneven surfaces, hills, and stairs. The experience operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is advised. It is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility or dietary restrictions, and those under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.

Kensington Palace Exterior and Royal Stories

The exterior of Kensington Palace is admired for its architectural beauty and historical significance. The guide provides stories of notable residents like Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II, explaining how the Palace has been used over centuries. Visitors learn about royal events and the Palace’s ongoing role in the monarchy.

The narration includes insights into royal life and the Palace’s connection to current members like King Charles and Queen Camilla. These stories enrich the experience, making it more than just a visual tour. The exterior visit lasts around 15 minutes, giving time to absorb the grandeur and historical context.

Inside Kensington Palace and the State Apartments

For those who upgrade, the timed entry tickets grant access to the State Apartments and Royal Gardens. These areas are not included in the exterior visit and require a separate ticket, allowing a more in-depth exploration of royal interiors, including the Queen Victoria Rooms, The Jewel Room, and the Kings State Apartments.

The State Apartments showcase stunning royal furnishings, artwork, and historic decor, illustrating the Palace’s role as a royal residence. Visitors also see the Kings Gallery, Kings Staircase, and the Queen’s Apartments, providing a glimpse into royal life through the ages.

Kensington Gardens and the Sunken Garden

The 40-minute walk through Kensington Gardens features highlights like the Sunken Garden, which is accessible via the Cradle Walk. Visitors enjoy views of the Princess Diana statue, installed in the Sunken Garden, a tribute to her legacy.

The Gardens are known for their beautifully maintained landscapes and historic features, offering a peaceful break from the Palace’s grandeur. The guide shares stories of the garden’s history and the royal connection to this scenic park.

The Orangery and the Royal Afternoon Tea

The Orangery Restaurant is an elegant venue from the 18th century, providing a regal setting for the Royal Tea. Guests sit amid refined surroundings, enjoying a curated menu of sandwiches, pastries, and cakes.

The afternoon tea lasts about 65 minutes and includes a selection of up to 10 teas, allowing guests to taste different flavors while relaxing after the walk through the Gardens and Palace. The delicious food and the historic ambiance make the tea experience a highlight for many.

Additional Inclusions and Optional Upgrades

This tour includes exterior visits of Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, and the Sunken Garden, along with the Royal Tea experience. If the upgrade is selected, timed access to the interior of Kensington Palace is included, providing a chance to see the State Apartments and learn more about royal history.

Guests also benefit from audio guides during their interior visit, which are provided by the Palace. The tour is designed to be flexible, with some self-guided elements, especially in the gardens.

Practical Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a rich experience, it is important to note that inside access to Kensington Palace is an optional upgrade and incurs additional costs. The walks involve uneven terrain, hills, and stairs, which may be challenging for some visitors. The tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those with special dietary requirements.

Participants should be prepared for rain or shine, as the experience runs regardless of weather, and comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour does not include transportation, hotel pickups, or food and drinks outside the Royal Tea.

Final Verdict on the Kensington Palace Gardens & Tea Experience

This tour offers a beautiful combination of royal history, scenic gardens, and a refined afternoon tea within the grounds of Kensington Palace. The knowledgeable guides and the personalized experience—especially when fewer guests are booked—are often praised in reviews.

The exterior tour provides a meaningful introduction to the Palace’s storied past, while the Royal Tea in the Orangery adds a luxurious touch. The cost reflects the premium experience, and the limited group size ensures a more intimate visit.

This experience is especially suited to Royal Family enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone wanting a taste of regal London in a relaxed setting. It’s less ideal for those with mobility limitations or seeking a purely self-guided visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kensington Palace Gardens Tour suitable for children?
Children over 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and some uneven surfaces, so it’s best for physically able guests.

Does the tour include inside access to Kensington Palace?
In the basic package, only the exterior and gardens are included. An upgrade provides timed access to the State Apartments.

How long does the Royal Tea last?
The afternoon tea at the Orangery lasts about 65 minutes, giving guests plenty of time to relax and enjoy the food and beverages.

What should I wear on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking over uneven paths and stairs. Dress for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour is not suitable for guests with special dietary requirements or food allergies.

How do I meet the tour at the starting point?
The tour begins at the Hilton London Hyde Park, 129 Bayswater Rd. It is near public transportation, making it easy to access.

Is the tour operated in all weather conditions?
Yes, the experience runs regardless of weather, so be prepared for rain or sun.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Who is the experience provider?
The tour is operated by LetzGo City Tours GBP. Contact details include +44 20 3769 4233 and [email protected].

Where can I find more similar experiences?
Additional tours include visits to Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey, and Tower of London, among others, available through the same provider.

This detailed review highlights the distinctive blend of royal history, elegant gardens, and a luxurious tea experience that makes this tour a memorable way to explore Kensington Palace. The personalized guides and the historic setting promise a refined and enriching journey into Britain’s royal past.