London: VIP Kensington Palace Gardens Tour & Royal High Tea

A Royal Day Out: Kensington Palace Gardens & High Tea in London

Imagine strolling through the stunning Kensington Gardens, soaking in views that have captivated visitors for centuries, then settling into an elegant setting for a classic Royal High Tea. This tour is a blend of history, beauty, and indulgence, priced at around £70-£80 per person, lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a taste of royal luxury—especially if you’re drawn to stories of Princess Diana, Queen Victoria, and the current monarchy.

What we love about this experience is the chance to visit Kensington Palace with optional timed tickets, allowing us to avoid long lines and enjoy a more relaxed exploration of the State Apartments. The guide’s narration adds a layer of storytelling that makes history come alive, and the high tea at The Orangery offers a truly regal setting with delicious bites and a fine selection of teas.

One possible consideration is that the palace entry isn’t included unless you select the upgraded ticket, so if you’re eager to explore the interior in depth, plan accordingly. This tour suits visitors who enjoy guided insights, authentic historic settings, and a leisurely afternoon with a luxurious touch—ideal for couples, history buffs, and those celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• Guided Tour & Flexible Access: Includes optional timed tickets for Kensington Palace and State Apartments.
• Beautiful Setting & Authenticity: Focused on real royal stories, with expert narration from knowledgeable guides.
• Luxurious Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a classic English tea in one of London’s most picturesque venues—the Orangery.
• Ideal for History & Royalty Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who love stories of Princess Diana, Queen Victoria, and the current royal family.
• Value for Money: Combines sightseeing, storytelling, and a high-quality meal in a single experience.
• Accessibility & Practical Tips: Involves some walking over uneven surfaces; comfortable shoes recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point & Meeting Logistics

The tour begins at the Hilton London Hyde Park, a convenient central location just outside the park. Meeting outside the main entrance, next to Queensway Tube Station, is simple and quick. Being punctual is important—late arrivals can’t be accommodated, and missed tickets or tours won’t be rescheduled, so set your alarm!

We appreciated the clear instructions, and the fact that the guide checks everyone in personally, making the start smooth. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it an easy choice for most travelers.

Kensington Palace & Gardens: A Walk Through Royal History

The highlight of this experience is an approximate 15-minute stop at Kensington Palace, where you get to see the exterior and hear stories of its royal residents. For those who opt for the upgraded tickets, you’ll gain easy-access timed entry to the State Apartments and Queen Victoria Rooms, bypassing lines and making the most of your visit.

Inside, you’ll see the Kings & Queens State Apartments, a lavish display of royal furnishings, historic portraits, and significant artifacts. The guide’s commentary makes these rooms come alive, sharing stories of Princess Diana, Prince Charles, and the current King and Queen. One reviewer appreciated a guide named Pauline for her knowledge and considerate tone, which made the tour engaging and accessible.

The Kensington Gardens itself is a highlight—spanning over 265 acres—offering beautiful landscapes, the Sunken Garden, and the new Princess Diana statue, which many find moving. The Cradle Walk provides a peaceful path along the garden’s edges, perfect for photos and reflection.

The Sunken Garden & The Diana Statue

We loved the way the Sunken Garden is accessible via the Cradle Walk, creating a tranquil space that feels worlds away from the bustling city. The recent installation of the Princess Diana statue adds a poignant touch, allowing visitors to pay their respects and appreciate her enduring legacy. Several reviews praised the statue’s beauty, describing it as capturing Diana’s spirit perfectly.

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The Orangery & Royal High Tea

After the garden walk, the experience shifts to indulgence—a 65-minute visit to The Orangery Restaurant, a grand 18th-century Royal Café. Here, we settle into a beautifully decorated space that exudes elegance, with tall windows offering views of the palace gardens.

The Royal Tea is a true highlight—think cakes, finger sandwiches, and up to 10 traditional English teas. One reviewer called it a “delightful high tea,” noting the good quality of food and the lovely setting. The service at The Orangery is consistently praised, with staff offering attentive, first-class treatment.

Guests have described the setting as “simply lovely,” feeling as if they’ve stepped into a royal mansion. Many mention how this combination of setting, food, and history makes the experience feel special without being overly formal or stuffy.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who value storytelling and authenticity over rigid schedules. It’s perfect for those wanting to learn about royal figures like Princess Diana and Queen Victoria, while also enjoying a luxurious meal in a historic setting. It’s also ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who dreams of experiencing London’s royal side in style.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s quite a bit of walking over uneven surfaces and cobblestones.
• The tour operates regardless of weather—so bring a raincoat or umbrella if rain’s forecasted.
• The palace entry is optional unless you select the upgrade; for just the gardens and tea, tickets are less expensive but do not include palace interior access.
• Make sure to arrive 15 minutes early to check in and meet your guide.
• Keep in mind that large bags and strollers are not permitted inside the palace or on the tour, so travel light.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Participants consistently rave about their guides—calling them “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “passionate.” For example, one said, “Mike and Amber made our experience well worthwhile,” emphasizing how guides bring the stories to life with enthusiasm and depth.

The high tea receives glowing praise, with comments like “delicious,” “lovely setting,” and “a treat for the senses.” Reviewers also appreciated the timed tickets, which helped avoid long lines and made the experience smoother.

Some noted small drawbacks, such as the palace entry not being included unless specified or the no fast-pass option on busy days, especially during special exhibitions like the Diana statue unveiling.

Final Thoughts

This combination of a guided walk through Kensington Palace and Gardens plus the luxurious high tea offers a unique way to experience London’s royal heritage. With expert narration, beautiful settings, and delicious food, it’s a well-rounded experience that appeals to history lovers and those seeking a taste of royal elegance.

If you’re after a balanced mix of education, scenery, and indulgence, while enjoying some of London’s most iconic royal sights, this tour is a compelling choice. It’s especially good for visitors who want a more relaxed, intimate experience—avoiding the crowds that sometimes flock to the palace itself—and prefer a premium meal that matches the surroundings.

FAQ

Is the palace entry included in the tour?
It depends on the ticket option you select. The VIP package with timed easy-access tickets includes entry to Kensington Palace and the State Apartments. If you choose the Gardens and High Tea only, palace entry is not included.

Can I visit the palace on my own afterward?
Yes, if you purchase the upgrade, you can explore Kensington Palace independently after the guided tour. Otherwise, the guided portion is usually the main way to see the interior.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and the option you select. The guided garden and palace walk usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, plus the high tea.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, children over 18 are welcome. Keep in mind that the walking involves uneven surfaces, and the setting is quite elegant.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour involves some walking over cobblestones, inclines, and stairs. Mobility scooters and large wheelchairs are not recommended, and the guide notes that the experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must. London weather can be unpredictable, so weather-appropriate clothing and an umbrella are advisable.

Can I just do the high tea without the palace tour?
Yes, the Gardens & High Tea option is available separately, lasting about 2 hours, but it won’t include palace interior access.

Is the tour good value for the price?
Given the quality of the guide, the iconic historic setting, and the luxurious tea experience, most find the tour to offer excellent value—especially when you consider the hassle-free access and storytelling that bring the sights alive.

To sum it up, this tour offers a refined way to enjoy London’s royal heritage, blending storytelling, scenic gardens, and a regal afternoon tea. It’s best suited for those who appreciate history, elegant surroundings, and a touch of British tradition—ideal for a memorable day out that feels like stepping into a royal storybook.

You can check availability for your dates here: