Exploring the rich history of Hampton Court Palace has never been easier. With a private guided tour led by an expert with 18 years of experience, visitors can explore the palace’s captivating past. From ghosts to LGBTQ+ stories, the tour can be tailored to individual interests. At a flat rate for up to 10 guests, this engaging experience promises an unforgettable journey through one of Britain’s most iconic sites. What secrets might the palace reveal?
About Your Stay

- Experienced former state apartment warder, Sheila Dunsmore, provides private guided tours of Hampton Court Palace tailored to group interests.
- Tours cover a range of themes, including history, ghosts, LGBTQ+ stories, and child-friendly options, with a 100% recommendation rate from 213 reviews.
- The flat-rate fee of $226.90 includes entrance to the palace and accommodates groups of up to 10 people for approximately 2.5 hours.
- Sheila holds an EDI Level 3 Diploma in Cultural Heritage and Level 2 Accreditation from the Institute of Tourist Guiding, praised for her storytelling and personalized experiences.
- The tours are wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed, providing an immersive and educational exploration of the palace’s past.
Tour Overview

The private guided tour of Hampton Court Palace offers tailored sessions based on group interests, including history, ghosts, LGBTQ+ stories, and child-friendly options.
With 213 reviews and 100% recommendation, the tour is ideal for groups up to 10 people at a flat-rate fee of $226.90.
Morning or afternoon tour times are available, led by Sheila Dunsmore, a former state apartment warder with 18 years of experience.
The tour duration is approximately 2.5 hours, and the entrance fee to the palace isn’t included, though concessions and free admission for children under 5 are available.
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Guide Expertise
Sheila Dunsmore, a former state apartment warder with 18 years of experience, leads the private guided tour.
She specializes in Ghost, LGBTQ+, and Grace and Favour tours, showcasing her deep expertise in the rich history of Hampton Court Palace.
Dunsmore holds an EDI Level 3 Diploma in Cultural Heritage and Level 2 Accreditation from the Institute of Tourist Guiding, ensuring she provides knowledgeable and engaging commentary throughout the tour.
Visitors praise her storytelling skills and the personalization of the experience to their group’s interests, making for an immersive and educational exploration of the palace’s past.
Tour Details

A $226.90 flat-rate fee is charged for the private guided tour, which includes entrance to Hampton Court Palace.
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with morning and afternoon time slots available. The meeting point is the West Gate, the main entrance to the palace.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Entrance fees for the palace aren’t included in the tour price, but concessions are available, and children under 5 are free.
The tour can accommodate groups of up to 10 people, providing a tailored experience based on the group’s interests.
Customer Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the private guided tour, awarding it a 5.0 rating based on 213 reviews.
Travelers highlight Sheila’s exceptional knowledge and captivating storytelling skills, which bring the palace’s history to life. Guests appreciate the personalization of the tour to their specific interests, whether it’s learning about the palace’s haunted past, LGBTQ+ stories, or tailored experiences for families.
The interactive and engaging nature of the tour is lauded, with reviewers emphasizing their enjoyment and the wealth of knowledge they gained.
Questions About Your Stay

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Can We Take Photos Inside the Palace?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside Hampton Court Palace, though some restrictions may apply in certain areas. Guests should check with their tour guide or palace staff for the latest photography policies.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?
The tour is primarily offered in English, but the guide may be able to accommodate other languages by request. Visitors should inquire about language options when booking the private guided tour.
Are There Any Dining Options at the Palace?
There are several dining options available at Hampton Court Palace, including cafes, restaurants, and a riverside cafe. Visitors can enjoy meals and refreshments on-site during their visit to the historic landmark.
How Do We Get to the Meeting Point?
The meeting point is at the West Gate, the main entrance to Hampton Court Palace. Visitors should plan to arrive at the West Gate to meet their guide and begin the tour.
What Should We Bring for the Tour?
Visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and any necessary medications or personal items. No food or drink is allowed inside the palace, but there are cafes on-site for refreshments.
Final Verdict On This Stay

The private guided tour of Hampton Court Palace offers a personalized exploration of the palace’s captivating history. Led by Sheila Dunsmore, a seasoned expert, the tour caters to guests’ interests and provides an engaging 2.5-hour experience. With exceptional customer reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the palace’s rich past, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a deep dive into this iconic site.
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