Ruth McCann enjoys a unique sleepover at one of Britain's most famous (and haunted!) buildings, Hampton Court Palace
If you have ever wanted to spend the night in a Royal palace, then this is the event for you. Whether you go alone, with some friends, or even as an alternative idea for a hen night (yes there was a hen party with us) this is just a really enjoyable and unique evening in one of Britain's most iconic buildings.
Once you arrive, a fun-packed set of activities awaits with plenty of live interpretation, including a meeting with an impressively in-character Queen Elizabeth. After meeting Her Royal Majesty there's even a spot of Tudor dancing to enjoy (or not as some of the more self conscious members of the group found out). Why not come dressed in historical costume and go the full Elizabethan hog?
After a delicious three course feast fit for a king, we were taken on our very own private tour, to parts of the palace not usually open to the public.
Sleeping next to the haunted gallery was definitely the highlight. Lights out at midnight and after a good nights sleep (earplugs provided) we awoke to a cooked breakfast. We were then invited to attend a morning service in the Chapel Royal, which was absolutely magical; followed by watching the lighting of the big Tudor kitchen fire.
Included as part of the sleep over package is a day pass for the palace so you can continue to explore at your leisure. The staff on hand were unbelievably good throughout – fun, courteous and with an amazing depth of historical knowledge about each individual room, they really helped to make the whole experience. Look out for the next one as this event is not to be missed, I would highly recommend.
- You can keep an eye out for the next sleepover on hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/
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