Hampton Court Palace will be transformed into an enchanted world this Christmas for a new seasonal event which promises an abundance of myth, magic and merriment.
Winter Palace: The Christmas Beast Ball will run from 28th November until 3rd January, 2027, featuring an immersive experience through Henry VIII’s former palace, as well as festive decorations, an iconic ice rink and much more.
Festive highlights: what groups can expect
At the heart of the event at Hampton Court Palace in Surrey is The Christmas Beast Ball in the Cartoon Gallery, where visitors are invited to step into the revelry, dancing alongside fantastical creatures and encountering live performances as the court comes to life.
Beasts great and small, from mighty dragons to mischievous mice, will assemble as lanterns glow, halls hum with music, and the cunning Lord of Revels, Seymour Panther, sets the festivities in motion.
Beyond the ballroom, the tale unfolds throughout the Palace, where each space reveals a new chapter of the immersive, story-led experience.
The historic rooms will be transformed, dressed in gold, emerald and copper, frosted Christmas trees and garlands woven with silk ribbons. Expect playful encounters with puppets and costumed performers, charming installations, and moments of magical storytelling from the grandeur of the Great Hall to the scurrying woodland creatures toiling below in the Wine Cellar.
From 20th November until 3rd January, a sparkling outdoor ice rink will take centre-stage under a canopy of twinkling lights.
Christmas shopping and foodie treats
The annual Festive Fayre returns for its 11th year, taking place over the weekends of 4th-6th and 11th-13th December. Hosted in the Great Fountain Garden, there will be more than 100 independent producers offering everything from jewellery and hampers to board games and candles.
Groups can indulge in some tasty treats with a variety of food and drink on offer and live music at the bandstand will add to the festive atmosphere during the weekends.
Group bookings
Entry to The Winter Palace: The Christmas Beast Ball will be included in palace admission but ticket prices (including for groups) have been amended to reflect this event during the running dates.
There is a meal voucher scheme for groups of 15 or more covering a hot or light lunch as well as a traditional cream tea.
Groups can also book a bespoke guided tour, tailored to different interests, which cover the highlights of the palace’s history.
A palace of intrigue
Hampton Court Palace, looked after by Historic Royal Palaces, is said to be the most magnificent surviving Tudor Palace in the world. Groups can explore the fascinating stories relating to Henry VIII and see the mark left by each of his six wives, including the pomegranate emblem of his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.
Film buffs can use the dedicated trail on the audio guide to follow in the footsteps of big TV series including Bridgerton and Wolf Hall, which were filmed there. Key filming locations include the Master Carpenter’s Court, Fountain Court, Clock Court, Base Court, the King’s Stairs and the Gardens.
Visit www.hrp.org.uk for more information, or email the team on groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk.
