
Hampton Court Castle and Gardens
Explore enchanting Victorian walled gardens, a famous maze, and scenic river walks at this historic castle estate.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Surprisingly uncrowded

Hampton Court Castle and Gardens
Best Time
Surprisingly uncrowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore enchanting Victorian walled gardens, a famous maze, and scenic river walks at this historic castle estate.
"Absolutely stunning! The castle is only opened for private venues what is sad, but there is a cafe at the back of the castle which visitors can use."

🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring a picnic and blanket for a leisurely meal in the spacious grounds. :sandwich:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking involved, especially on the river path. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Walled Gardens
Castle Grounds
Explore meticulously kept formal gardens, a traditional kitchen garden, and vibrant floral displays.

The Famous Maze
Garden Area
Get lost and find your way through this classic hedge maze, with a rewarding tower at its center.

Waterfall and Pond Feature
Garden Area
Discover a picturesque waterfall and pond, with the option to walk behind the cascade.

River Walk
Castle Grounds
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the river, offering beautiful views and a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Castle Access & Garden Focus
Timing Your Visit for Enjoyment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring a picnic and blanket for a leisurely meal in the spacious grounds. :sandwich:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking involved, especially on the river path. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Be Cautious on Stepping Stones
The stepping stones across the stream can be wet and slippery. :warning:
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities year-round. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring a picnic and blanket for a leisurely meal in the spacious grounds. :sandwich:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking involved, especially on the river path. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Be Cautious on Stepping Stones
The stepping stones across the stream can be wet and slippery. :warning:
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities year-round. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids love the maze, play park, and open spaces to run. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning and extensive Victorian walled gardens, the fun maze, and the picturesque river walk. While the castle interior is not accessible to the public, the grounds offer ample beauty and activities for a leisurely visit. Some find the river walk paths challenging for those with mobility issues.
"The gardens are still available to visit, unlike the castle which is now only for private functions. The gardens are extensive and there are a couple of walks along the river, but only for the more able bodies, uneven tracks. There is a maze and a children's play area, a cafe and toilets, looking on line before hand, it is suggested to allow 1 - 2 hours for a visit and I think that is probably about right, nice to go and see but little to go back for."
jack Lumber
"Absolutely loved our afternoon here as a family of five (2 adults, 3 children aged 4, 8 & 13). Gardens are beautiful, the maze was fun and we all enjoyed the surprise when we got into the middle! Lots of space for the kids to run around and the river walk was great too! The kids loved the play park and the sunken gardens."
saretta brewer
"Beautiful! Wonderful gardens, scenic and plenty to keep you busy. The secret waterfall was such a fabulous surprise, like something out of a fairytale! The cafe serves fabulous cakes and there was plenty of parking. Perfect place for a picnic on the lawn too. Highly recommended."
Esme Finch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hampton Court Castle and Gardens is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options may involve train journeys to nearby stations followed by a taxi or bus. It's always best to check local transport schedules before your visit.
Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's advisable to check the official website for any parking fees or specific instructions.
While direct public transport to the castle might be limited, you can typically reach nearby towns or stations by train and then arrange onward travel via bus or taxi. Researching local routes is recommended.
The gardens offer extensive grounds, including a river walk, which may have uneven tracks. While there are accessible areas, some paths might be challenging for those with limited mobility.
From London, you can typically take a train to a station near Hampton Court and then arrange local transport. Driving is also an option, with parking available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees are generally reasonable, with single adult entry around £11. Family membership options are also available for frequent visitors.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance can sometimes save time, especially during peak seasons or events like the RHS Flower Show. Check the official website for current recommendations.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.
The castle is primarily used for private functions and weddings, so interior access is generally not available for public tours. However, you can view the exterior and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
Occasionally, there are offers for historic sites, sometimes as low as £1 for entry to multiple locations, though these are not always available. Family membership is a good option for regular visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning Victorian walled gardens, navigate the famous maze, enjoy a scenic river walk, and let children play in the adventure playground.
Yes, there is a well-known and enjoyable maze with a stone tower at its center, offering a fun challenge for visitors of all ages.
Absolutely! Children can enjoy the maze, a dedicated adventure playground, and plenty of open space to run around.
Yes, you can walk behind the waterfall feature, which can be a refreshing experience on a warm day. Be prepared for a little spray!
Take your time to wander through the different sections, from the formal Victorian gardens to the kitchen garden. Don't miss the maze and the river walk for varied scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located at the back of the castle, offering refreshments and snacks for visitors.
Picnicking is highly encouraged! There are designated picnic areas, and the spacious grounds are perfect for enjoying your own food.
The cafe typically offers standard cafe fare, including treats and light meals. Some produce from the kitchen garden may also be available for purchase.
While specific menus can change, most cafes offer a selection of vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly at the cafe for current vegan offerings.
The primary dining option is the cafe. For a wider range of restaurant choices, you would need to explore dining options in nearby towns.
📸 📸 Photography
The formal gardens, the maze entrance, the waterfall feature, and the river walk all offer beautiful backdrops for photography.
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas, especially in the gardens. However, always be mindful of any specific restrictions, particularly if private events are taking place.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites and private properties. It's crucial to check the official policy regarding drone operation before your visit.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for the gardens. Midday can be bright, but the maze offers shade.
While you can photograph the grounds, be respectful of private events like weddings. Avoid intruding on ceremonies or private guest areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the play areas, the river walk offers a gentle adventure, and the waterfall feature is always a point of fascination. The gardens themselves, with their diverse plants and flowers, can also spark curiosity in young minds. Consider checking the website for any special family events or activities that might be happening during your visit.
🚶♀️ Couples and Garden Enthusiasts
Garden enthusiasts will be captivated by the variety and quality of the horticultural displays. The kitchen garden offers a glimpse into traditional cultivation, while the overall landscaping showcases a deep appreciation for nature's beauty. Even though the castle interior isn't accessible, the exterior views combined with the sprawling gardens make for a truly immersive and aesthetically pleasing experience.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
For those looking to capture the essence of the grounds, the river walk presents opportunities for serene nature photography. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the castle exterior and gardens. While the castle itself is not open for interior photography, its imposing facade serves as a grand backdrop for outdoor shots. Remember to be respectful of any private events that might be taking place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gardens: A Traveler's Delight
Beyond the formal beds, the grounds offer diverse landscapes. The river walk provides a more natural and serene experience, with lovely views and a chance to connect with the surrounding environment. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the maze is a must-do. It's not just a simple hedge maze; it leads to a rewarding stone tower and is often described as great fun by visitors. The waterfall and pond feature adds another layer of charm, with the unique opportunity to walk behind the cascading water, a particular hit on warmer days.
Families will find plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. The children's play area is well-regarded, and the sheer amount of open space allows kids to run freely. The combination of structured garden beauty, natural landscapes, and engaging activities makes Hampton Court Castle and Gardens a well-rounded destination for a relaxed day out.
The Iconic Maze and Waterfall
Complementing the maze is the picturesque waterfall and pond feature. This area is designed to be visually appealing and offers a unique interactive element: the ability to walk behind the waterfall. This provides a cool, misty respite on hot days and a novel perspective of the water's flow. The surrounding paths and the stepping stones across a wide stream add to the charm and exploration opportunities of this section of the gardens.
Event Venue vs. Public Access
This distinction ensures that the castle can host exclusive events while still allowing the public to enjoy the expansive and beautifully maintained outdoor spaces. The gardens offer a rich historical and horticultural experience, with features like the Victorian walled gardens, the maze, and the river walk providing ample exploration for a full day out. The cafe is also accessible to visitors, providing refreshments with views of the castle exterior.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit