Hampton Court Palace

Strongly considering going to see the gardens of this residence, but was curious to know if anyone here had impressions of it, best practices for taking it in, etc. My mate is a horticulture student and I want him to see at least one truly great garden when we're in London.

Will also be walking him by the Chelsea Physic Garden, pinching my friend's key to their private garden in Eaton Square, and having a pint in another mate's Titschmarsh-inspired backyard plot in Essex. A reasonable survey of English gardening, I suspect...best I can do, really, as Lilibet has not responded to my requests for a kick-about behind Buck House

Thanks for your thoughts...

GJ

Here's a book for you, GJ. Read it and see what you think; printed in 2005, it covers the basics and will give you a good starter for planning. If you've been to Butchart or Versailles you'll love Hampton Court. I'd go there instead of Versailles any day, fountains or no.

I would go as early as you can; it's a shame when one has to leave just because the gates are closing and not when you're finished enjoying the gardens. Look into the Thames river trip if you get a chance, but I'm not sure it would give you maximum time on-site.

KCLS has other books on Hampton Court; just search on Hampton Court and you'll see a great number of books! This is the best one specifically on the gardens that I've ever read.

Enjoy!

The gardens are lovely GJ. The only thing I would mention is that the Hampton Court Flower Show runs from the 3-8th July this year (with the gala evening on the 2nd). The show itself is recommended but very, very busy. If you only want to see the gardens I'd visit before the show starts. I still haven't got to grips with doing links but the rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt site will give you all the info.
Julie

Yes, the gardens are nice but the state rooms really aren't worth it.

GJ, Hampton Court is one of my favourites! I'm going again in September with some American friends. They said they wanted to go to Stratford-upon-Avon to do the Shakespeare thing, but I talked them out of it. Less travelling. More time to see. Aside from the gardens and maze, the Palace has the biggest four poster beds you have ever seen [:0] Steeped in history and to wonder at what has gone on in them through the years..............

As an aside, if you have never been to Hidcote Manor (nr Chipping Camden, Gloucestershire), they are some of the best gardens I have experienced.

Phil

Originally posted by GrinningJackanapes


As for four-poster beds, well, unless a pair of handcuffs is involved, I'm not much into them [}:)]

GJ

LOL[:o)] Have a word at the ticket office. They might find you some old shackles or something for that true historic feel[}:)]

Phil