Eltham Palace Tours
22 Reviews
Over the course of almost 1,000 years, Eltham Palace has served as home to the half-brother of William the Conqueror, King Henry VIII as a boy, and two 20th-century socialites. The estate reflects the history of England’s aristocracy, with a facade, interiors, and 19-acre grounds that blend medieval, Tudor, and art deco features.
The Basics
Visitors to the elaborate Eltham Palace and Gardens can admire the Great Hall’s 15th-century ceiling, explore Prince Henry’s childhood gardens, or unwind in the on-site café and outdoor playground. Some of the palace’s more interesting features were added in the 1930s by the Courtaulds, the wealthy industrialist family who bought and restored the mansion, which had fallen into disrepair. Palace visitors can view the heated bedroom of the Courtaulds’ pet lemur and enjoy interactive exhibits about the family’s luxurious lifestyle.
Audio-visual guides are provided on entry, though private tours offer a more personalized experience. Inclusive deals such as the London Pass allow you to tick off the rural getaway along with other top London attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Eltham Palace is a must-do for history buffs, interior design fans, and garden lovers.
- Remember a coat or umbrella for outdoor exploration, especially in the rainy months.
- The palace is mostly wheelchair-friendly, with an accessible restroom, ramps, and a lift.
How to Get There
Eltham Palace is a 15-minute walk from Mottingham Station, which is served directly by trains from London Bridge. Bus numbers 124, 126, 160, and 161 also stop nearby. Follow the signs on Court Road for access to the site’s large parking area.
When to Get There
Eltham Palace is open throughout the year, though seasonal opening times apply. While the seasonal blooms of spring and summer are particularly impressive, the curated gardens provide atmospheric surroundings throughout autumn and winter too.
Art Deco and World Wars
The Courtaulds’ quirky yet classy refurbishments are now considered some of the finest surviving examples of art deco in the UK. The movement originated in France before World War I, influenced by cubism, international styles, and art nouveau. Associated with decadence, the style fell out of favor during World War II. Though the damage Eltham Palace sustained during the war has now been restored, its bomb shelter can still be visited today.
Address: Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE, England
Admission: Varies
3 Tours and Activities to Experience Eltham Palace
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Medieval to Art Deco: Eltham Palace Private Tour
Venture to one of London’s most beautiful and unusual royal landmarks when you book a private tour to Eltham Palace. While its origins date to the medieval period, and its Great Hall is a fine example of Tudor architecture, the palace is primarily celebrated as a masterpiece of Art Deco design, thanks to its 20th-century renovation. Depart in the morning from your London hotel and travel via private vehicle; admission is included, as is an in-depth, guided tour of the palace.
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From
$360.79
Price varies by group size
From
$360.79
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
London Pass Including Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Access to Over 80 Attractions
Discover London’s top sights for one low price with the London Pass®. Choose from a 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, or 10-day sightseeing credits package, and enjoy access to your London Pass straight from your mobile. Simply show it at the gate or ticket office to gain entrance to more than 80 attractions including Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, and the "View from the Shard." You also benefit from skip-the-line access at some of the city's top attractions like the London Zoo. Your pass also includes a hop-on hop-off bus tour, a Thames River cruise, a free guidebook packed with useful information, and valuable shopping and dining discounts.
Please note: Enjoy the extra flexibility in case your travel plans need to change: All passes (purchased by December 31) are valid for two year from purchase date and only become activated with your first attraction visit. After activation your pass will be valid for 30 days and/or the remaining number of attraction choices purchased.
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From
$104.03
From
$104.03
Independent Sightseeing Tour to London’s Royal Borough of Greenwich with Private Driver
Grand architecture, hilly parkland and narrow streets lined with quirky pubs and cafes are just some of the sights you can expect to see on this independent sightseeing tour of Greenwich. Spend a morning exploring the royal borough — one of only three in London — at your own pace. Simply select the attractions you want to visit. From the ‘Cutty Sark’ tea-clipper ship to the Royal Observatory, and then let your private driver arrange your itinerary for you.
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From
$171.38
Price varies by group size
From
$171.38
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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