can anyone give me any information on taking a ferry/boat trip to Hampton Court Palace? I think that would be a cool experience ie. the way Henry VIII did it. :) Any companies or websites for how to do this would be greatly appreciated for a trip next year. Thank you!
Posted by
Corvallis OR
7168 posts
Here is one website you can start with:
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
359 posts
thanks for the link Nancy. And for your encouragement David!
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
359 posts
can anyone comment on Hampton Court Palace vs. Windsor if I only have time to do one day trip outside of Central London?
Posted by
Nederland, CO
1530 posts
Depends on what you are into. I have been to both and would personally choose Hampton Court (I think) - actually a tough call. Hampton Court has a much "older" feel, and if you are into King Henry VIII then that should be your choice. The kitchens and garden are also very interesting. I think I've been 3 times and would go again in a heartbeat!
Windsor feels "newer" and you actually can't see quite as much of the castle as it is still being used by the royal family (I think mostly for business). The chapel there is quite good and I think still used some by the royal family. If you are taking any young girls you get to see an amazing doll house (takes up an entire room). And lastly the town of windsor is quite enjoyable. Some very unique shops.
You really can't go wrong with either one! Have fun:)
Posted by
Nova Scotia, Canada
264 posts
This looks fabulous, thanks so much for bringing this up. The family rate is a bargain.
I have an additional question, though--the website schedule isn't coming up properly, so I can see the times. Approximately how long does it take? I am thinking for us we'd probably go Westminster-Hampton Court, unless it adds a lot of time, as it's only #7 difference for the whole family, and more travel for us to get to Kew...
ETA...answering my own question. Elsewhere on the site it says 50-90 minutes, depending on the tide.
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
359 posts
thanks for your opinion Jill. Very helpful!
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
359 posts
JoAnne,I've since read that going to Hampton Court on the boat is a great option but then you should take the train back home so it isn't such a long day. I think that is a good idea.
Posted by
Bromley, Kent,, UK
1829 posts
Windsor Castle is the Queen's weekend retreat and is one of her favourite places to stay.
http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/windsorcastle/about
Definitely agree to only do the boat ride to Hampton Court one way, it can take a while. Or, to save time, you could take a train to Richmond and catch the boat from there.
Posted by
Nashville, TN, USA
3895 posts
Or have a look here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8VGCy3xFyeA
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
359 posts
Thanks David and Rebecca! Hampton Court it is!