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Boat Trips to Hampton Court Palace | Tickets, Timings, Route & More

Once Henry VIII's most famous residence, the Hampton Court Palace is a must-visit during your visit to London. Five centuries later, the palace still houses a large number of arms, ostentatious fine art, and tapestries from the bygone era. Additionally, it is famous for its gardens , maze , the annual Hampton Court Palace Festival, and Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. For those who wish to skip the crowds and explore at a leisurely pace, the Hampton Court Boat Ride is a great option. Read on to learn all about Hampton Court Boat Rides, timings, duration, and more. 

Practical Information on Boat Trips to Hampton Court Palace

• Departure Points : Kew Pier, Richmond Landing Stage
• Operating Hours : From Richmond Landing Stage - 11:15 AM, 2 PM From Kew Pier - Subject to Availability.
• Hampton Court Landing Stage Address :  Hampton Court Landing Stage, 64 Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
• Cruise Duration : 3.5 hours
• Hampton Court Palace Ashore Duration : 30 minutes
• Direct Routes to Reach Hampton Court Palace : Richmond Landing Stage & Hampton Court Landing Stage
• Best time to take Hampton Court Boat Rides : 11.15 AM

Read More About Ways To Get To Hampton Court

Why Take a Hampton Court Boat Ride?

In addition to public transportation like buses and trains, you can also set sail on the famous Thames River by getting a boat ride or cruise service to the Palace.

The Hampton Court Boat trips take only an hour to pass through the famous Teddington Lock and Kingston upon Thames before coming to a stop at Hampton Court. The cruise, on the other hand, can take up to 3.5 hours with a 30 minute stop at the Palace.  

Hampton Court Boat Ride Routes

Kew, Richmond & Hampton Court 

Timings: 11.15 AM and 2 PM

Duration: 3.5 hours

This downriver cruise takes passengers through the beautiful Teddington Lock & historic Kingston upon Thames and allows them the chance to get off Hampton Court and explore. Passengers can also disembark at Kew Pier. While you won’t be able to see everything at Hampton Court Palace in 30 minutes, you can visit the key highlights like Tudor Palace, the garden , and the Maze. 

Additionally, the Hampton Court Boats are traditional passenger boats that come with a fully licensed bar, restaurant, and toilet facilities. So, the trip itself is quite enjoyable.

Westminster - Kew - Richmond - Hampton Court 

Timings: Subject to availability

Duration: 3 hours

Between April to October, you can find two cruise trip services to Hampton court. These trips cover the majority of the points in both directions on the river. So, if you wish to explore Hampton Court, you’ll have to organize accommodation nearby or figure out another way to get back to London. 

This trip will cover essential points starting from Westminster Pier to Kew Gardens and through Richmond and Kingston before arriving at Hampton Palace. Now, if you wish to spend a whole day at Hampton Court, you can get additional services for the one-hour trip to the palace at Richmond.

Hampton Court Boat Ride View

Hampton Court Boat trips allow you to check multiple places off your London bucket list as it covers the majority of the key highlights. Here are few of the attractions that is covered on the boat ride:

Kew Gardens is a 300-acre botanical garden that is home to one of the largest collections of flora and fungi. The UNESCO World Heritage site boasts over 50,000 different kinds of living plants. You can even relax at the various cafés and restaurants. 

Richmond Park

Richmond Park is one of the city’s eight Royal Parks and covers a massive 2500 acres of land. It is home to many ancient trees and a huge range of rare species of fungi and fauna and also features the famous Tamsin off-road cycle Trail and Isabella Plantation woodland gardens.

The Syon House, the home of the Duke of Northumberland, is one of the last great houses of London. With over 400 years of history, this house features some amazing architecture, a wealth of art and history within its walls. It also has a 200-acre park that you can walk through. 

Marble Hill House

Built for Henrietta Howard, mistress of King George II, the Marble Hill house paved the way for architectural advances. Its design has more or less become the standard model for the Georgian English villas and plantation houses in the American colonies.

Ham House and Garden

Ham House is another famous 17th-century house that’s located in Richmond upon Thames. In addition to its famous gardens, this Stuart mansion is also recognized for its collection of furniture, textiles, and art. Most importantly, it’s considered to be one of the most haunted houses in Great Britain. 

Teddington Lock 

Teddington Lock is a famous and complex lock on the river Thames that consists of three separate locks and a weir. You’ll be able to pass through it on your Hampton Court Boat ride as it’s situated between Ham and Teddington. This historical Lock was built in 1810. So, keep those cameras charged.

Albert Bridge 

This famous bridge/monument was built in 1859 and is located on the Thames River. The Royal Albert Bridge is a railway bridge that’s of immense cultural significance, so much so that it is featured on the UK £2 coin. Except for Tower Bridge, Albert Bridge is the only Thames road bridge in central London never to have been replaced.

The London Eye or the Millennium Wheel is a massive observation wheel that’s located on the bank of the River Thames. Additionally, It also happens to be Europe's tallest observation wheel and has over 3 million visitors annually. It takes a whopping 30 minutes for one trip!

Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster is the famous House of Parliament. It is the meeting place for not only the House of Commons but also the House of Lords. Named after the neighboring Westminster Abbey, this historical Palace is situated on the River Thames. 

Lambeth Palace

The Lambeth Palace has been the official London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury for nearly 800 years. This beautiful palace is located on the south bank of the River Thames and is a mere 400 yards from the Palace of Westminster. 

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Hampton Court Magic Garden

Getting to Hampton Court Palace

About Hampton Court Palace

How to get to Hampton Court Palace from central London? [6 options compared]

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 16, 2024

Wondering how to get to Hampton Court Palace from Central London? Plan your visit to the beautiful Palace that was once the pad of King Henry VIII in our complete guide.

Hampton Court Palace is a 16th Century historic royal palace located in the London borough of Richmond. It is both an impressive and fascinating attraction most associated with King Henry VIII and is popular with visitors all year round. 

Located only 12 miles from central London with easy access by train, boat, bus or car (or a combination taking in Richmond Park, Bushy Park or the River Thames) Hampton Court Palace is a popular (and easy) day trip from London. 

In this article, we share the various ways you could take to get to the Palace from central London so you can plan your visit with ease.

Why visit Hampton Court Palace?

How to get to hampton court palace by train, how to get to hampton court palace by underground, how to get to hampton court palace by bus, thames river boats, turks – a thames tradition, how to get to hampton court palace by car/taxi, how to get to hampton court palace by tour.

Best Hampton Court Tickets and Tours

• Hampton Court Palace and Gardens Entrance Ticket
• Westminster to Hampton Court River Thames Cruise
• Secrets of Hampton Court Palace Guided Tour
• Hampton Court Palace: River Thames Bike Tour

The rich history of the palace has been home to some of England’s most famous monarchs, including King Henry VIII. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the palace’s many rooms, gardens, and courtyards, and get a glimpse into what life was like for royalty.

The architecture is a mix of Tudor and Baroque styles. The Great Hall, Chapel Royal, and the Tudor kitchens are some examples of the palace’s stunning architecture. 

With over 60 acres of landscaped grounds to explore the Privy Garden, the Great Vine and famous Hampton Court Maze are favourites.

If you are visiting with children you will discover many family-friendly activities at Hampton Court Palace. Interactive exhibits, costumed characters, guided tours and the Magic Garden (a themed play area that includes towers, slides, and even a dragon) make Hampton Court Palace a great day out for all the family.

Hampton Court Palace offers so much to the whole family and is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history, architecture, or gardens. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring the palace and its grounds. 

How to get to Hampton Court Palace

If you are wondering how to get to Hampton Court Palace you will find that there are actually several ways to get to the Palace from central London.

Below are five detailed ways to do so by public transport including train, tube, bus, boat and car.

• Direct train service from London Waterloo train station every 30 minutes (or 36 mins with one train change at Surbiton) 
• The train calls at Vauxhall, Clapham Junction, Earlsfield, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, New Malden, Berrylands, Surbiton, Thames Ditton and finally Hampton Court. 
• NOTE : Regular train service Monday to Friday, with fewer trains on weekends. 
• Hampton Court station is 5 mins walk to the Palace. 
• Tickets – Approx £9 for a single journey or £15 return.
• Transport for London (Tfl) Oyster cards can be used on this route with Hampton Court being in Tfl Travel Zone 6. 

Read – Getting Around London on public transport

• Hampton Court has no London Underground tube station. 
• The nearest tube station is Richmond, where connecting bus routes are available (see below). 
• Wimbledon tube station is another option but involves 2 or 3 bus changes and takes around 1 hour. 
• London Bus services from Kingston upon Thames and Richmond.
• Takes around 20 mins and costs £1.75. 
• Takes around 46 mins and costs £1.75. 

NOTE – Oyster cards, Travelcards, Freedom Passes and Saver Tickets are accepted on these services. 

How to get to Hampton Court Palace By Public Riverboat Services (NOT The Uber Boat)

The boat ride offers stunning views of the River Thames and is a great way to see London from a different perspective. 

• From Westminster Pier – approx 3 -4 hours. 
• From Kew Pier and Richmond Landing Stage, gives 3 to 3.5 hours at Hampton Court. 
• Single or return tickets are available. 
• Single tickets are around £12 to £23 and returns are around £17 to £30 for adults.
• NOTE: A range of different services are available, check the website for the timetable and boat availability and seasonal changes. 
• Westminster – Kew – Richmond – Hampton Court – Service 30
• Kew – Richmond – Hampton Court – Service 126
• Trips between Kingston, Richmond and Hampton Court.
• Single tickets are around £10 and returns are around £14 for adults.
• NOTE : A range of different services are available, check the website for the timetable and boat availability and seasonal changes. 
• Service links:   Turks timetable
• Hampton Court Palace is located on the A308 with good signpost directions. 
• Follow the brown tourist road signs. 
• From the M25 either, exit 10 (onto the A307) or exit 12 (onto the A308). 
• From the A3, take the A309. 
• Takes about 45 mins, depending on the traffic, to drive from Central London to the Palace. 
• There is limited paid parking on site. 
• Card-only payment, a few pounds daily charge. 
• Accessible parking is available for UK Blue badge holders.
• Hampton Court Green. – 500 metres from the palace has hourly paid parking. 

NOTE : It is recommended to take public transport to the Palace during peak busy times. 

If you prefer to take a tour of Hampton Court Palace or book entrance tickets, follow the link below to book with Get Your Guide . Tours/tickets to include: 

• Palace and Gardens Entrance Ticket. 
• Royal Hampton Court Guided Tour with Afternoon Tea.
• Secrets of Hampton Court Palace Guide Tour. 
• Hampton Court Palace: Private Guided Tours.
• Windsor Castle & Hampton Court Palace VIP Black Taxi Tour .

If you prefer a private driver tour guide for your travel group, John England Tours offers the perfect solution with a private tour of Hampton Court Palace providing an in-depth guided tour around this amazing palace with its rich history and background story. 

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Westminster to Kew, Richmond & Hampton Court Service

A service from Westminster to Kew, Richmond & Hampton Court passing through Central London, Kew, Richmond, Teddington Lock & historic Kingston upon Thames. This service will begin on Tuesday 2nd April 2024.

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  Kingston and Hampton Court sailings Tues-Sunday through April and May. Richmond sailings on Saturday and Sundays through April and May   

The timetable below shows the departure and arrival times depending on which direction you are travelling.   please check daily updates for up-to-date information on changes to the service. , the below services run tues-friday in april and may.  , the below services are running on saturdays and sundays in april and may (and bank holiday monday) , our boats  .

How to do a Hampton Court Palace Day Trip from London

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

Are you wondering how to do a Hampton Court Palace Day trip from London? We think Hampton Court should be top of any London bucket list  but requires a bit of planning. In this guide we will tell you all the options for doing a day trip to Hampton Court from London via public transit or via car, tips for getting tickets and what you need to see at this amazing royal palace. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Hampton Court is one of the many royal palaces in London but it is not in central London. In fact it is in Greater London in the suburb of Hampton which is close to Richmond upon Thames (famed as the filming location of the AppleTV hit Ted Lasso). 

There are a couple of ways you can get to Hampton Court Palace via Public transit in the form of trains and buses or also via driving. 

However before we get into the details of how to get to Hampton Court Palace, we will first look at the brief history. 

Table of Contents

Brief history of Hampton court palace

Hampton Court Palace Day Trip from London

Hampton Court Palace is the original Tudor palace which was begun construction by Cardinal Wolsey. However it didn’t take long for Henry VIII to want the palace and it to go into his possession

At some point or other all of his wives were brought to Hampton Court Palace but it is most notably associated with the two most unfortunate of Henry VIII’s wives Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard. Both of whom suffered the fate of being beheaded.

And in actual fact both of these wives are said to haunt the palace despite the fact netter were actually killed at the palace but were taken to the Tower of London for their execution. 

The palaces’ later history is most associated with William III and Mary II (1689-1702) and they they commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to build an elegant new baroque palace extension. 

The Palace today gracefully blends the old and the new and is a great way to explore both bits of history. In my opinion it is one of the best palaces near London! 

How to Buy Tickets for Hampton Court Palace

How to buy tickets to Hampton Court Palace

If you plan on going on an organised excursion to Hampton Court Palace the tickets will usually be included in the price. 

However if you plan to do Hampton Court on your own, which is what we recommend as it is a very easy day trip from London, you will need to organise your tickets separate to your transportation. 

Now you can buy tickets to Hampton Court Palace on the door but this isn’t something that we actually recommend. The reason for this is that the tickets on the day are usually slightly more expensive and also there are usually very long queues at the ticket office on the day. Therefore we recommend booking the tickets in advance. 

You can book your tickets via Viator online HERE

How to get to Hampton court palace on a day trip from London

How to do a day trip to Hampton Court Palace from London

So now you know about tickets and the history of the palace we will give you all the necessary information about how to get to Hampton Court Palace on a day trip from London. 

There are two ways to get to Hampton Court Palace on a day trip – either via train or via car. If you are coming from Central London we recommend taking public transit as traveling in and out of London in a car can be stressful and time consuming. 

The best way to do a Hampton Court Palace day trip by train is to start your journey at Waterloo Station. From there you will hop on board a Southwest Train to Hampton Court Station.

The journey takes 35 minutes and the trains run every half hour during peak hours.

Once you are at Hampton Court Station the Palace is just a short walk from the train station.

If do you choose to drive which we don’t advise from Central London please note that parking is limited so be warned you will have to get there very early to avoid having to walk a distance from the nearest offsite parking.

However one our our favorite ways to get to Hampton Court Palace, albeit not the fastest way to get there is via boat. 

You can head to Kew, Richmond and Kingston and pick up a boat that takes you to the palace. Kew is furthest away so the journey will take longest from there. The nearest boat stop and biggest stop is at Kingston. 

Best things to do at Hampton court Palace 

So know you how to do a day trip to Hampton Court from London we will turn our attention to the best things to do at Hampton Court Palace. 

Learn about Henry VIII

Things to do at Hampton Court palace

The King that Hampton Court Palace is most associated with  is of course Henry VIII. And in my opinion  it is the best place in England to learn about Henry VIII!

One of the things my kids love is the reenactments that are in the palace by costumed actors. Check the board as you enter the palace to check times of reenactments. 

Learn Tudor Cooking

Although there are so many favorite things to do at Hampton Court Palace my family’s favorite is the Tudor Kitchens. 

The Tudor Kitchens are a living history area where chefs will recreate dishes from the Tudor period. During the summer you will really feel the heat these chefs had to work in. 

And the helpful cooks will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. 

Get Lost in the Hampton Court Maze

If you are visiting Hampton Court Palace with kids then the maze is an absolute must do.  Be sure to keep close to your kids so you are not looking for them as well as the centre of the maze!

If you would like to find a London itinerary designed specifically for kids then check this post out!

Learn about Real Tennis!

Hampton Court is the home of Real Tennis – not the lawn tennis we know today! If you are lucky there will be a game going on on their historic court while you are there.

See the Great Vine

Did you know that Hampton Court Palace has the world’s largest single vine? No me either. But is definitely worth going to look at.

Take a Train or stroll around the Grounds

The grounds and gardens at Hampton Court Palace at extensive and are one of my favourite things to do is have a picnic in the grounds!

The Magic Garden

Best Things to do in London with a toddler

Ok if there is one things my kids love at Hampton Court Palace it is the Magic Garden. The Magic Garden is perfect for those traveling to London with toddlers or children

Tickets to the Magic Garden are included in your general admission ticket but it is worth noting that you can’t buy admission just to the Magic Garden.

Seasonal things to do at Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace has some great seasonal events so be sure to check the calendar for your dates of visit. 

If you are visiting Hampton Court Palace sin Summer then it is worth looking for The Hampton Court Flower Show. This is usually held in July every year and is a great alternative to its sister show and more famous Chelsea Flower Show.

However if you are visiting Hampton Court Palace in the Winter then our favourite thing to do is go skating on the Hampton Court Ice Rink. 

London has an array of amazing ice rinks that pop up all over the city in December. However Hampton Court Palace is one of my favourites and is less busy than some of its central London counterparts! Definitely one to add to your Christmas in London itinerary!

Things to read before visiting Hampton court palace

A tale of deception starring Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII

The other Boleyn girl

A historical romantic romp by Philippa Gregory!

What are you favourite things to do at Hampton Court Palace? Is  a Hampton Court Palace day trip from London on your bucket list?

• 50 + things to do in London with kids 
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Zenbabytravel

Monday 4th of March 2019

We are regulars of Hampton Court Palace for various reasons - ice skating in the winter, flowers in the spring, maze for fun, magic gardens for the kiddies, palace for historical outings ? thanks for sharing your lovely post with us on #CulturedKids

Vyki from Museum Mum

Saturday 2nd of March 2019

Totally agree, Hampton Court is a must do for visitors to London! The new playground is much enjoyed by my little ones. The kitchen and maze are probably my favourite bits. I must try a boat trip there one day #CulturedKids

Wandermust Mummy

The boat trip is amazing - you must try it ext time

Nicky@Go Live Young

Wednesday 27th of February 2019

Loved Hampton Court when we lived in this neck of the woods. Was pre-kid but still used to get lost in the maze! #CulturedKids

Thursday 28th of February 2019

It is our fave local thing

Catherine's Cultural Wednesdays

Tuesday 26th of February 2019

We live close to Hampton Court and used to pop in regularly, happy days! Our especial favourite was seeing who could get to the centre of the maze first and the velvet covered royal loo was popular too! Thank you for linking up with #CulturedKids

Yes it is our local place! My little one not big enough for maze races yet but I’ll remember that tip for when she is older

Emma Raphael

Sunday 24th of February 2019

We lived in Teddington for years, so Hampton Court was our neighbour just across Bushy Park. So beautiful, and definitely definitely worth a visit! :) Thanks so much for joining in with #CulturedKids

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Magna Carta

• Category Premier
• Capacity 8 Guests
• Crew Members 4
• Booking Type Charter & Cabin bookings
• Check-in Time / Location 3:00 PM in London, Hotel Stafford

Cruising aboard barge Magna Carta on the Royal River Thames is a study in both antique and modern lifestyles – an ancient history book with the pages still being written.

Guests are met in London at the glamorous Stafford Hotel where they enjoy an afternoon tea. Then, the modern metropolis becomes but a distant memory upon boarding Magna Carta. Captain Dominic Read is a longtime area resident and an expert in the folklore and history of the river and its inhabitants. The cruise unfolds major historic sites alongside small slices of life: gently gliding past mansions and boathouses, as well as villages that look as if Miss Marple will pop out at any minute! History comes alive at Hampton Court Palace (where Magna Carta moors), the Tudor-style palace of King Henry the 8th; Windsor Castle, home to British royalty; and Christ Church College in Oxford University, the oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Back on board, four spacious cabins with modern en-suite baths provide havens of privacy, while the comfortable deck and light-filled indoor salon become the perfect vantage points to take in the passing scene. Dining options deliciously address outdated notions about British cuisine. Magna Carta’s menus are fresh and creative, utilizing the best of locally-sourced produce, meats, and fish. A broad selection of Old and New World wines are carefully paired with the meals.

Unlike barging in other locations, it is not possible to bicycle or walk alongside the vessel as it cruises; however, once moored, active guests can disembark to explore port towns and the surrounding countryside by bicycle or on foot.

Last visited in 2019

A Cruise on the River Thames aboard Magna Carta

Extra, extra…Read all about Barge Lady Cruises!

Accommodations & amenities, itineraries, gourmet dining, rates & dates.

• Interested in This Cruise?

Accommodations

• 117 sq ft long, with 6’4 – 7’4 ceiling height throughout
• Four Cabins
• Winston Churchill, 200 sq ft, 7’4” ceiling height, choice of  king bed or two twin beds
• Henry VIII and Shakespeare, 200 sq ft, 6’4” ceiling height, choice of king bed or two twin beds
• Christopher Wren, 200 sq ft, 6’4” ceiling height, one fixed queen bed
• Ensuite bathroom with shower in all cabins
• Adequate storage space in cabins
• Salon and dining room
• Deck with canopy
• Outdoor dining space and seating

Classic Itinerary with Daily Guided Sightseeing

Travel from Hampton Court to Henley-on-Thames on the River Thames

An English Cream Tea Begins Your Cruise in Style

In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of the Magna Carta at the designated meeting point in London. Enjoy a delightful English Cream Tea before being chauffeured to Magna Carta moored outside Hampton Court, the Tudor Palace of Henry VIII, where we remain overnight. Meet your crew at the traditional champagne reception. Tonight, enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners onboard.

Tour the Finest Tudor Palace in Existence

This morning, explore Hampton Court Palace, the Tudor home of Henry VIII. Walk through Henry’s great hall and haunted gallery and see his chapel, still used for worship today and with the finest Tudor ceiling in existence. There is much more to see including the stunning privy gardens and the famous maze! This afternoon, the Magna Carta cruises up through Molesey Lock and following the meandering path of the river to our overnight mooring on Bell Weir Lock at Runnymede. Drinks and dinner are served onboard.

Windsor Castle...Where the Royals Live

This morning's cruise takes us through Runnymede where King John put his seal on the Magna Carta in 1215, from which our vessel takes its name. This afternoon, history comes alive at Windsor Castle! Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and lived in for over 900 years by the British Royal Family, the castle boasts unrivaled displays of art, furniture, ancient armor, and royal treasure. Your Tour Guide returns you to Magna Carta for cocktail hour and dinner.

A Day of Manors and Manners

This morning's excursion is a private tour of a Tudor manor that has been in the same family for 13 generations! Authentic and iconic, the manor is regularly used for filming. Then cruise this afternoon into Clivedon Reach where we have special permission to moor. Cliveden, now a hotel, was once owned by the Astor family. Tour the grounds, discussing the political intrigue and scandal for which Cliveden is famous! A late afternoon cruise is the perfect time to laze in the hot tub. Enjoy another gourmet dinner onboard.

Traditional Boatbuilding Craftsmen at Work

This morning's sightseeing is a visit to the gallery of one of England’s greatest artists, Sir Stanley Spencer. Spencer described Cookham has “heaven on earth” and much of his work was painted in and around the village. A late morning cruise precedes a tour of Peter Freebody’s Boatyard to watch traditional craftsmen work on wooden boats as they have done for generations. Explore an 11th century village, including a tipple at Ye Olde Belle, reputed to be the oldest inn in the country. Your Tour Guide escorts you back to the barge where Chef presents dinner onboard.

Christ Church College at Oxford

A morning cruise takes us to Henley-on-Thames to our final mooring situated along the famous Henley Regatta Rowing Course. This afternoon, your Tour Guide escorts you to Oxford for a tour Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college. Founded in 1546, its magnificent surroundings have been the scene of Lewis Carroll writing Alice in Wonderland, welcomed 13 British prime ministers among its students, and just lately served as a set for the Harry Potter films. Return to Magna Carta for the Captain’s Dinner, ending your cruise in style.

A Sad Farewell

After breakfast, you will be chauffeured back to the designated drop off point in London.

Please note: this is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions. On alternate weeks the cruise will be in the reverse direction.

Downton Abbey Itinerary with Daily Guided Sightseeing

An English Cream Tea Begins your Cruise in Style

A member of Magna Carta crew will greet you at the Hotel Stafford in London at the designated meeting time. Enjoy a delightful English Cream Tea before being chauffeured to Magna Carta moored outside Hampton Court, the Tudor Palace of Henry VIII, where we remain overnight. Meet your crew at the traditional champagne reception. Tonight enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners onboard.

This morning, explore Hampton Court Palace, the Tudor home of Henry VIII. Walk through Henry’s great hall and haunted gallery and see his chapel, still used for worship today and with the finest Tudor ceiling in existence. There is much more to see including the stunning privy gardens and the famous maze! This afternoon, the Magna Carta cruises up through Molesey Lock and following the meandering path of the river to our overnight mooring on Bell Weir Lock at Runnymede. Drinks and dinner are served aboard.

Visit the Castle where Downton Abbey is Filmed!

This morning, your Tour Guide chauffeurs you to Highclere Castle, scene of the popular television series Downton Abbey. Highclere Castle is one of England's most beautiful Victorian Castles set amidst 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland. Our public tour reveals several grand reception, drawing, and dining rooms on the first floor, along with a brief look into a select few of the home’s 50 bedrooms! Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise, a visit to an art gallery, and a stroll around the village mooring. Dinner is served onboard.

A morning cruise takes us to Henley- on-Thames to our final mooring situated along the famous Henley Regatta Rowing Course. This afternoon, your Tour Guide escorts you to Oxford for a tour Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college. Founded in 1546, its magnificent surroundings have been the scene of Lewis Carroll writing Alice in Wonderland, welcomed 13 British prime ministers among its students, and just lately served as a set for the Harry Potter films. Return to Magna Carta for the Captain’s Dinner, ending your cruise in style.

After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point in London.

Royal Cruise Itinerary with Daily Guided Sightseeing

An English Cream Tea Begins Your Cruise in Royal Style

In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of the Magna Carta at the designated meeting point in London. Enjoy a delightful English Cream Tea before being chauffeured to Magna Carta moored outside Hampton Court, the Tudor Palace of Henry VIII, where the vessel remains overnight. Meet your crew at the traditional champagne reception. Tonight, enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners onboard.

Welcome to Henry VIII’s Royal Palace

This morning, the immersion into “Royal England” begins in the vast palace of a most iconic monarch: Henry VIII. Discover Henry VIII’s rooms, the Royal Chapel, and the kitchen gardens on a private tour with local expert Lesley Richardson. A resident and guide of Hampton Court for over twenty years, Lesley shares dishy anecdotes and insider's secrets about famous (and infamous) palace residents! Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise. Once moored, explore the riverside path by bicycle or on foot before another gourmet dinner.

Secrets of Windsor Castle with a Noble Military Knight

This morning's cruise takes us through Runnymede where King John put his seal on the Magna Carta in 1215! This afternoon, European history comes alive at Windsor Castle, notable for its long association with the English and later British royal family. A uniformed Military Knight of Windsor introduces a “behind the scenes” tour of the castle, offering access to original art, sophisticated architecture, and royal treasure. Return to Magna Carta, where Chef is putting the final touches on a gourmet dinner fit for a King.

A Day of Monarchs, Manors, and Manners

Manors and manners are on offer today thanks to two tours of fascinating estates. Begin the British adventures with a private visit to Dorney Court, one of England's finest Tudor Manor houses, dating from around 1440. Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise to our mooring on the Clivedon Estate. After walking through the grand gardens, step inside for a tea and a “butler’s guide” to the personalities and scandals associated with over 350 years of aristocratic life at Clivedon House. Relive the day over drinks and dinner.

Welcome to One of England’s Oldest Stately Homes

Relax on deck this morning as Magna Carta glides past the enchanting scenery of the Royal River Thames. This afternoon, your Tour Guide accompanies you to Stonor Park, the seat of the Stonor family, Baron Camoys, for over 850 years. Tour this astonishingly preserved historic country home with a Stonor family member, discovering the 12th century private chapel, as well as the remains of a prehistoric stone circle. Return to the barge and explore the riverside path with a gentle pedal or leisurely stroll before tonight's delicious dinner.

A Private Tour of Highclere Castle

Regattas and rowing are foundations of the lifestyles along the Royal River Thames; this morning, a visit to Peter Freebody’s boatyard introduces craftsmen who restore vintage vessels using ancient techniques. After an early lunch, it's a but mere drive to Highclere Castle, home to many of the iconic scenes in the beloved drama "Downton Abbey". On this private tour, guests will explore the rooms, grounds, and gardens of this stately home, as well meet and greet members of the Highclere household. Back onboard, a Farewell Feast awaits.

Breakfast selections consist of freshly baked goods from a local boulangerie, along with fruit, cereal, yogurt, cheese, coffee, tea, and juice. For lunches and dinners, your onboard Chef creates regionally and seasonally inspired fare. Lunch is typically a light buffet featuring hearty salads and savory entrees, and your multi-course gourmet dinner is served with grand table settings and fine crockery, all in a festive setting. Wine pairings feature a red and a white from area vineyards, along with a cheese platter of artisanal favorites. Note these are sample menus. Bon Appetit!

• Couscous with Raisins and Pine Nuts
• Bouillabaisse with Toasted Sourdough and Saffron Aioli
• Cheeses: Claxton Bleu and Cheddar
• A Selection of Coffees, Teas, and Biscuits
• Sweet Corn Veloute
• Pork Tenderloin with Honey Roasted Carrots
• Cheeses: Cropwell Bishop Organic, Stilton, and Dunsyre Blue Bath
• Poached Pear with Gingerbread and Vanilla Ice Cream
• A Selection of After Dinner Drinks
• Cote-du-Rhone 2009, Rasteau, France
• Rioja 2010,  Baron De Barbon, Spain
• Don Cayetano Merlot Baroncini Rosso di Montalcino
• Les Pontilles, Sauvignon Blanc
• Petit Chablis 2010, France
• Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Split Rock, New Zealand

Italic Dates = Value Season Gray Bold Dates = Regular Season

Additional Details

Included in the rate.

• 6 nights/7 days in a cabin with a private bath
• Round trip chauffeured transfers to and from London
• A dedicated onboard crew consisting of a Captain, Chef, Tour Guide, and Hostess
• All meals onboard and ashore from dinner the first evening to breakfast the final morning
• All wines served with lunches and dinners both onboard and ashore
• Open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Daily escorted excursions including admittance fees
• Unlimited use of onboard amenities such as bicycles and the hot tub

Not included in the rate

• International airfare
• Cancellation insurance – A Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy is recommended
• Suggested crew gratuity of 5-10% of the cruise price

*All rates are quoted in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise noted

“We so enjoyed the entire experience. The crew was exceptional. The cabin accommodations were generous and most comfortable. We didn’t realize how much we would enjoy cruising down the Thames!” – Nancy and Bill S, Magna Carta

Are you ready to engage with a most enchanting waterway in England?

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