The Kew Palace at Kew Gardens

Tucked within Kew Gardens, Kew Palace also known as the Dutch House, is a charming red-brick Georgian gem built in 1631 and later adopted as a royal residence. Acquired by George III in 1781, it served as a private family home during his periods of illness, earning the nickname “the mad king’s palace.” Far smaller than Buckingham or Windsor, its intimate rooms, restored to their 1800s appearance, offer a rare glimpse into domestic royal life, with Queen Charlotte’s bedroom, the King’s dining room, and Princess Augusta’s toys on display. In 2026, the palace opens seasonally from April to September, allowing visitors to step back in time amid original furnishings and personal artifacts.

The palace tour begins in the atmospheric attics, where staff quarters and storage reveal the behind-the-scenes life of servants, before descending to the elegant ground floor. Highlights include the King’s Library with its original books and the Queen’s Boudoir, adorned with delicate Chinoiserie wallpaper. Outside, the restored Queen Charlotte’s Cottage, a rustic thatched retreat built in 1772—sits in a secluded woodland glade, complete with a picnic room and menagerie history. Interpretive panels and audio guides bring the family’s stories to life, from George III’s porphyria treatments to the princesses’ education. It’s a must for history lovers and those seeking a quieter contrast to Kew’s grand glasshouses.

Entry to Kew Palace is included with your Kew Gardens ticket and is open April to September, daily 10:30am–5:30pm (last entry 5pm). Allow 45 – 60 minutes for the self-guided tour, with timed entry to manage flow. Book your slot on arrival. The palace has limited accessibility (stairs to upper floors), but ground-floor rooms and the cottage grounds are wheelchair-friendly. In 2026, Kew’s app offers a royal family audio drama to enrich the experience. Insider tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid queues, and pair with a walk through the nearby Queen’s Garden for 17th-century herbal inspiration.

Kew Palace is ideal for families, with child-friendly trails and dressing-up corners, though the cottage is a 10-minute walk through woodland so bring sturdy shoes. The palace closes in winter to protect delicate interiors, so plan your visit for spring or summer. Check kew.org for any 2025 conservation closures. Combine with the Great Pagoda or Temperate House for a full day of history and horticulture. Whether you’re fascinated by royalty, Georgian design, or intimate storytelling, Kew Palace offers a personal, poignant journey into Britain’s past.