Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey

Experience The Tudor Monarchy at Hampton Court Palace There is no better way to explore the life of one of England' s most notorious monarchs, King Henry VIII, than by visiting his wonderfully exuberant home Hampton Court in south west London. Bought from Cardinal Wolsey in the 1520s, the palace is stuffed with priceless tapestries and portraits, grand coats of arms and amazing furniture. There is far too much to do here to achieve in one day but try not to miss Henry's Great Hall which is one of the country's oldest theatres and hosted William Shakespeare's company, Henry's apartments (where a great film introduces you to his wives), the Tudor Kitchens, the beautiful Chapel Royal and, of course, the world famous maze outside in the breath-taking grounds. Hampton Court runs an extensive programme of demonstrations on Tudor life and the Tudor buildings that stand here are arguably some of the best in the UK.