From Victoria to Diana: Learn All About The Royal History of Kensington Palace (2026)

TLDR: Kensington Palace offers a tangible connection to the British Royal Family – from Queen Victoria's childhood home and Princess Diana's residence to the working royals of today. Expect a blend of grand state apartments, atmospheric gardens, and rich history, with ticket prices around £20–25 for adults and plenty to see nearby in Kensington.

As a lifelong wanderer I have had the pleasure of exploring some of the world's most iconic historic sites. My recent visit to Kensington Palace, nestled in the leafy heart of Kensington, certainly left a lasting impression. This is a living piece of history, where the echoes of queens and princesses still seem to whisper through the halls.

If you are wondering whether this royal residence is worth your time, buckle up – I will share everything you need to know, from its dramatic origins to who calls it home today, and help you decide whether it deserves a place on your London itinerary.

What is the story behind Kensington Palace?

The moment you step through the palace gates, you can feel the centuries of stories woven into its very fabric. What began as a country house called Nottingham House in 1605 found its royal calling in 1689. King William III and Queen Mary II, seeking refuge from the damp air of Whitehall Palace that was aggravating William's severe asthma, transformed it into a grand residence. Imagine the frantic construction – tragically, a worker even lost his life during this period when a wall collapsed.

Kensington became a stage for powerful women. Queen Anne, whose life here was marked by immense personal grief, ultimately died within these walls. But it was also the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria, who grew up under the strict "Kensington System" before famously discovering at just 18 years old that she was Queen.

Much later, the palace gained a deeply moving connection to Diana, Princess of Wales, who lived here for many years. After her tragic death, the palace gates became a sea of flowers – a testament to global grief.

Although it was once affectionately nicknamed "the aunt heap" due to its many royal residents, it continues its dual role as a working royal residence and a captivating museum. To bring these stories to life as you wander through, consider using StoryHunt for audio insights. Try it out for free here.

What makes Kensington Palace special?

Kensington Palace has a unique charm, offering a deeply personal journey through more than 300 years of British royal history.

For me, exploring the recreated childhood rooms of Queen Victoria was particularly special – you can almost sense the young princess's presence. Beyond that, the King's and Queen's State Apartments are a visual feast, adorned with exquisite art and period furnishings that truly transport you back in time.

The palace's connection to Princess Diana also sets it apart; her enduring legacy is beautifully preserved, particularly in the peaceful Sunken Garden.

It proudly continues its royal tradition as an official London residence for the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, and their children, among other royals. You will also learn that King William III's asthma was the original reason for acquiring this healthier, less damp location. You might even consider enjoying afternoon tea in the elegant Orangery, originally Queen Anne's greenhouse – more on that shortly.

Who currently lives at Kensington Palace?

While large parts of Kensington Palace are open to the public, it remains a busy royal residence. You may be surprised by just how many members of the royal family still call it home. The most prominent residents are of course Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, together with their children. Their London base, Apartment 1A, is here, although their primary home is now in Windsor.

But they are not alone. You will find other royal cousins living on the estate, including Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, and his wife Katharine, in Wren House. Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, and his wife Birgitte reside in Old Stables. Prince and Princess Michael of Kent also have an apartment. And for a period, Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank made Ivy Cottage their home.

This continuation of royal occupancy gives the palace an interesting blend of historical gravitas and modern life – a tradition that began when King William III first sought a healthier environment away from the city's dampness. It really does make the old nickname "the aunt heap" feel rather apt still.

How much do Kensington Palace tickets cost?

When planning your visit, budget for around £20.00 to £20.60 for an adult ticket. I always recommend checking online in advance, as prices can vary slightly, particularly if you opt for a package that includes a donation. Children aged 5–15 typically pay around £10.30, and under-fives enter free, which is a nice touch for families. Discounted and senior tickets are usually available for around £16.50 to £20.00.

One important detail: if you receive certain benefits such as Universal Credit, you may be eligible for £1 tickets, making the palace accessible to more people.

Booking online in advance is not just about saving a few pounds – it often guarantees your entry, especially during busier periods, as the palace operates a timed admission system. Beyond the price, remember that you are stepping into a place steeped in history, from being Queen Victoria's birthplace to the spot where 60 million flowers were laid after Princess Diana's death – a powerful image that truly makes the entry price feel worthwhile.

What happened to Diana's apartment at Kensington Palace?

Many visitors naturally wonder about Princess Diana's apartments (numbers 8 and 9) at Kensington Palace. After her tragic death in 1997 – having lived there since her wedding in 1981 – they were cleared out. Her personal belongings were carefully distributed to family and friends or placed in storage, and all items on loan from the Royal Trust were returned.

For several years the rooms stood empty, as if out of respect for her memory. Eventually they found new purposes. Prince Charles originally used them as offices, and at one point Apartment 8 even housed the Royal Drawing School. Imagine the surprise for William and Catherine, living nearby in Nottingham Cottage, who occasionally caught glimpses of life drawing classes going on.

Today Apartment 8 serves as office space for the Prince and Princess of Wales's charitable work and official duties, while Apartment 9 has reportedly been used by the military. Although you cannot step inside her former home, her spirit lives on in the beautiful Sunken Garden, which we will return to – transformed into the White Garden in her honour.

Did Charles and Diana live at Kensington Palace?

Absolutely. Prince Charles and Princess Diana made Kensington Palace their home after their wedding in 1981. They lived in Apartments 8 and 9, which were actually combined to create a larger family space. These apartments were, interestingly, originally built for King George I's mistress, the Duchess of Kendal. It was within these walls that Prince William and Prince Harry spent a significant part of their childhood.

Princess Diana genuinely loved Kensington Palace and gave it the nickname "KP." Even after her divorce from Prince Charles in 1996, she chose to remain there until her untimely death the following year. She famously collaborated with designer Dudley Poplak to put her personal stamp on the interiors, blending the palace's classical roots with her modern aesthetic through pastel colours and bold patterns.

Is Kensington Palace worth visiting?

For me, absolutely. It offers a more intimate and personal connection to royal history than many larger palaces. You get to walk through Queen Victoria's childhood rooms and see the beautiful, moving tributes to Princess Diana in the Sunken Garden. Exploring the State Apartments and the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection provides fascinating insights into royal life and fashion, which I found rather captivating.

That said, it is fair to flag a few drawbacks. If you are travelling with young children, they may find it less engaging due to fewer interactive exhibits. The focus on historic fashion may not appeal to everyone either. Additionally, some areas are not fully wheelchair accessible, although options such as discounted tickets and free carer admission are available.

Bear in mind that the Queen's State Apartments are scheduled for renovation from 15 June 2026. For the best experience, aim for the low season (October to February) or weekday afternoons (Wednesday to Friday). September is often an ideal time, with pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Set aside 2–3 hours for your visit. For those who, like me, prioritise seeing things efficiently, using StoryHunt can help you prioritise the city's highlights.

What else can I do in Kensington, London?

Once you have soaked up Kensington Palace's royal history, you are perfectly placed to explore a vibrant part of London. You can read our guide to the top attractions in Kensington here.

• Right on the palace grounds, a leisurely stroll through Kensington Gardens is a must. Discover the Serpentine Gallery or find the enchanting Peter Pan statue for a peaceful escape.
• Just a short walk away, charming Notting Hill beckons with its colourful houses, antique shops, and the famous Portobello Road Market – perfect for a unique souvenir hunt.
• For culture enthusiasts, the nearby South Kensington museums are a treasure trove: the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum all offer world-class collections and are, wonderfully, free to visit.
• If you are seeking a moment of calm, the hidden Kyoto Garden in Holland Park offers a peaceful Japanese landscape.
• And of course, no visit to Kensington is complete without enjoying a traditional afternoon tea at one of the elegant nearby hotels, or simply wandering through the picturesque mews streets for a glimpse of London's architectural past.

For a comprehensive overview of the city, including both top attractions and these delightful hidden gems, consider using StoryHunt as your personal audio guide. Download StoryHunt for Android and iOS here.