If Hampton Court palace were added to Zillow I cannot even imagine the billions of dollars that it would go for. This palace is completely incredible and an absolute national treasure – we were so lucky to see it!
From the get, before we even got to the palace, I didnt know much about it. I had no idea that this is where Henry VIII lived with his 6 wives, and I didn’t know the historical value that this palace held. I just thought it was another random palace. But that is far from the truth!!! This was one of my most favorite visits of the entire trip, and it was rich in so much history and information.
Upon arrival, the palace seemed to be smaller than I anticipated – as the view from the front was much less grandiose than the view from the center or from the Georgian side of the palace – but still very beautiful. As we began to walk the halls of this palace, I instantly noticed the smell. It smelled old, but in the best way possible – damp, dark, and slightly mildewy is the best way to describe it. But I like when old things smell old. Who would want old things to smell new? Its part of the charm, in my opinion. The entire first part of the palace, the Tudor part, all had the same vibe which was very stoney and cold, but still grand and royal. Seeing the Tudor kitchens where Henry’s food was prepared for him and his Queens was completely surreal. I love seeing these details as it makes their lives feel so real to me, like they weren’t just someone who existed in a portrait. We saw the beautiful grand room for dining and partying which I would assume Henry spent much of his time, and there were so many incredible details, like the H&A’s carved into the wall, standing for Henry and Anne (Boleyn), whom he later beheaded. The tapestries on the walls were huge, and I could tell that back in the 16th century they would have been vibrant and beautiful. We learned so much about the Courtiers of the palace in this time, which seemed like it would either be a great gig or the worst job ever, I guess depending on who you’re serving. But Henry VIII didnt seem like the greatest King, so I dont think it would have been much fun unless you were in his good graces. Seeing the hallway where it is said the Katherine Howard fled her captivity and was eventually caught by guards and dragged screaming back down the hall gave me chills, and reminded me that she really was just a child when that all happened. I couldn’t believe that I was standing in a spot where she once had some of the worst moments of her very short life.
The rest of the palace was equally stocked with incredible stories and lore, and seeing the stark difference between the Tudor side and the Georgian side was mind boggling. I felt like I was in two completely different palaces – I still cant believe they were that different. The Georgian side was stunning – and absolutely my dream world. The fashion, the decor, the elegance, all perfect. The architecture on this side is a complete 180 from the Tudor side, as it is insanely grand and gold and colorful. It was a totally different era of fashion and style. It was so interesting to hear about the royals that I dont hear of as often as the Tudors, like Charlotte, George, Caroline, and the poor Queen Anne. Her story is so sad and so interesting, I had so much sympathy for her as I learned a little more about her life.
Overall, Hampton Court Palace was the perfect immersive experience to see and learn about so much royal history. I walked away knowing so much more than I ever planned on, and I could go back and visit 10 more times before I even began to get bored. It gave me such a unique glimpse into the royal life in this era and I absolutely loved it. 10/10 from me!!!
onto our final week in london – I cant believe it! making the most out of this week and eating all of the favorite foods I’ve found here before we head to Stratford! YAY!
xo, jo!
Theatre in London U of A 