Eltham Palace was once a favoured medieval palace and is now a tourist attraction in London.
It was built in the 1300s and was used by royalty until the 16th century.
In its heyday, it was one of the largest and most lavish royal residences in England.
The palace was then transformed into a striking Art Deco mansion in the 1930s by its last private owner, Stephen Courtauld.
Outside the beautiful home, you’ll find award-winning gardens mixed with the fantastic medieval features.
The palace site is managed by English Heritage.
What is there to See and Do at Eltham Palace?
Life Of The Courtaulds
During the 1930s, Stephen and Virginia Courtauld purchased Eltham Palace from the Crown and restored it into a magnificent home with an Art Deco interior and cutting-edge technology.
Find out about this odd couple’s adventures as you explore strange rooms such as the map room, where they planned their globe-trotting adventure and the centrally heated sleeping quarters especially created for their pet lemur!
View stunning early-nineteenth-century gowns, headwear, and other accessories in a re-creation of Virginia’s walk-in wardrobe, then try on some period replicas yourself.
Art Deco House
Prepare to be dazzled in the stunning circular entry hall, a combination of Art Deco and cutting-edge Swedish design, before being stunned by the beautiful paneled dining room with geometric and stylised forms.
Virginia Courtauld’s opulent golden bathroom, which is set within a beautiful gold mosaic niche with a statue of Psyche, will make you feel like royalty.
You’ll also be able to explore the wartime basement bunker, this would have provided the household protection during the Blitz, whilst being very comfortable.
Medieval Palace
You’ll be able to see the roof built for Edward IV over five hundred years ago from the minstrels gallery, as you travel back in time to this medieval royal palace.
Alongside this you’ll be able to see how the estate housed King Edward II in 1305 and Henry VIII when he was a kid alongside his royal family.
19 Acres of Historic Gardens
The gardens which won the Bloom Awards in 2017, are beautiful and lots of fun to explore.
You can relax and take your time to explore, you’ll be able to see the Rock Garden which features lots of pools and cascades running into the moat.
For the flower lovers, you can explore the sunken Rose Garden to see the fantastic assortment of flowers.
The moat also features London’s oldest bridge, which you can choose to cross.
These beautiful grounds make you feel like you’re outside of greater London and truly make it a lovely place.
Playground for Children
For those looking to keep their kids distracted, you can let them explore the playground and take part in various activities.
The outdoor play area which is inspired by the exotic travels of the Cortaulds, lets your kids burn off their excess energy.
Shop and Cafe
Next to the play area, try out the glasshouse café’s alfresco dining experience and unwind with a delicious lunch or a quick afternoon snack.
Fresh and local food is served, with hot and cold lunches, kids’ sandwiches, afternoon cakes, and heated and cooled drinks.
Eltham Palace Ticket Prices
Eltham Palace offers tickets for adults, kids and family tickets.
You can check ticket prices here.
Eltham Palace Location
Eltham Palace is located midway between Eltham and Mottingham train station.
It features a car parking area for those that want to drive.
Address: Court Yard, London SE9 5QE
Eltham Palace Photos
FAQ
What has been filmed at Eltham Palace?
Several movies and television programmes have been filmed there, here are a few:
- Brideshead Revisited
- The Crown
- Secret Diary of a Call Girl
- Hustle
Who lived in Eltham Palace?
Eltham Palace and Gardens has been home to several notable people.
It was once home to Edward IV, Henry VIII and was remodeled by the eccentric millionaires Stephen and Virginia Courtauld.
How long does it take to go around Eltham Palace?
On average it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the entirety of Eltham Palace and the gardens.
How much does it cost to park at Eltham Palace?
From 4am to 2:30pm: £6.30
From 2:30pm to 4am: £5.70
What station is Eltham Palace?
Eltham Palace’s closest station is Mottingham Railway Station.
You can walk to the palace in 15 minutes from the station.
What is Eltham Palace used for today?
The palace is used as a tourist attraction and museum today. You can explore the royal residence, gardens and more.
Are dogs allowed in Eltham Palace and Gardens?
Dogs are not allowed, however you are allowed to bring assistance dogs.
Did Henry VIII live in Eltham?
Eltham was once a Tudor Royal Residence and was home to Henry VIII and his sisters.
The home still incorporates original medieval features in the main house. In this stylish home you still have the medieval great hall which many of the Tudors would have used.
