Hampton Court Palace

Henry VIII's palace on the Thames, with the maze, the kitchens and the gardens.

A full day out at the end of the train line: the Tudor kitchens, the Great Hall, the Baroque apartments and the famous maze. The gardens are as much of the visit as the palace, so it is a fine-weather choice, though the state rooms fill a wet afternoon well enough. Ticketed and pricey; the grounds alone are worth it in spring.

When it works

Partly outdoors: better on a dry day, with shelter if it turns. Best morning, afternoon.

Good for kids and groups.

On these lists

• Things to do in London when the sun is out
• Things to do in London with kids
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• Plan an afternoon in London around it

Opening hours and prices change; the official site has the current ones. See everything in London ranked for right now.