If you are looking for a magical evening of music in an incredible setting then look no further than the Hampton Court Palace Festival.
What is the Hampton Court Palace Festival
The Hampton Court Palace Festival is an annual series of open air concerts set against the stunning backdrop of the palace.
Over two weeks, a host of top artists from the rock and pop world to classical world perform in a specially built arena in the palaces historic courtyard.
The arena, which is fully seated, has a capacity of around 3000. The festival ends with a finale that includes a firework display.
One of the nice things about this festival is that you can have a drink or picnic in the stunning gardens before the show. Gates usually open around 5.30 so there is plenty of time to take in some of the spectacular setting.
A little bit about Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace is a royal palace located in Richmond-upon-Thames in the south-west of London.
Built in the early 16th century, it has a long and fascinating history. The original palace was started by Cardinal Wolsey, an English statesman and Catholic bishop. However, it didn’t take long until it fell into the hands of Henry VIII.
He enlarged the palace to accommodate his courtiers (he could be accompanied by up to 800!) and brought six of his wives here. It became one of his favourite residences and is one of only two surviving palaces out of the many he owned.
The following century, much of the palace was destroyed when William III and Mary II took to the throne and asked Sir Christopher Wren to build a new baroque palace.
In 1838, Queen Victoria opened the palace to the public. With is specular architecture and beautiful gardens it quickly became a popular tourist attraction.
Today, it remains just as popular. As well as the place and gardens, visitors can enjoy some of the Royal Collections art works in a permanent display. Annual events held at the palace include the Hampton Court music festival and the RHS Flower Garden Festival.
Hampton Court Palace festival line up 2025
The line up at the Hampton Court festival always matches the spectacular setting.
11 June – James
12 June – Rag’n’Bone Man
13 June – Tom Jones
14 June – Bananarama
15 June – The Good, The Bad and The Rugby
17 June – 10CC
18 June – Chaka Khan
19 June – Gary Barlow
20 & 21 June – Elbow
How to get tickets
There are a few different ticket types
- The Kings VIP experience
- The Queen’s Garden Party Package (Groups of 10+)
- Seats
It is worth taking a look at the seating plan in advance of the on sale so you know exactly what blocks are where and which ones you’d like to try for a seat in.
Tickets can be purchased via See Tickets.
With such an incredible setting it might not surprise you that there are some unique hospitality options available including after hours access to the palace and a pre show dinner where royalty themselves dined and entertained in the past.
What time do shows start and finish?
The gates usually open at 5.30pm. Concerts usually start around 9pm although this depends on the show and if there is a support act or not. Shows usually last around 90 minutes.
Tips to help you have a great evening
- Pack light. Most venues these days have a small bag policy and you will go through a security check before being allowed into arena. Keep your belongings to a minimum, security issues aside, it’s no fun carrying a huge bag round at a gig.
- The courtyard where concerts are held is uncovered so it is open to the elements. There are some undercover seating areas so if you really don’t fancy your luck with the Great British summer, you can select these seats when booking tickets.
- While on the subject of weather, check the forecast for the day of your show and dress appropriately. If it is hot and sunny, make sure you bring something to cover up with and if rain is predicted, throw in a waterproof jacket.
- As you may expect with such an historic building, there maybe some uneven surfaces. Keep an eye out as you walk around. If you use a wheelchair or are unsteady on your feet there is a step free way to the arena. Contact the stewards on arrival and they will be able to help.
- Don’t forget to listen out for the Garden Stage where emerging talent will be preforming on the acoustic stage
Plan your visit to the Hampton Court Palace Festival
Address: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
How to get to Hampton Court Palace
Train: Hampton Court Station is a few minutes walk from the palace. There are two trains an hour from Waterloo in Central London and the journey takes around 40 minutes. You can check out train times at South West Railway.
Bus: Local buses pass by Hampton Court Palace.
Boat: Take the scenic route with a boat trip from Turks Pier, a short walk from Kingston station. The boat service departs at 5.00pm each night of the festival and the journey takes around 30 minutes. There is also a boat service from Richmond which departs at 12 noon, 2pm and 4pm and takes 1 hour 45 minutes.
Taxi: There is a pick up and drop off point at Home Park.