4.6 ·
Step into Eltham Palace, where a medieval great hall meets a glamorous 1930s Art Deco mansion. Wander the circular entrance hall, library, and map room, then stroll the gardens on a leisurely visit outside central London.
Reasons to go
Full description
Eltham Palace began as a royal residence used by medieval and Tudor monarchs, including a young Henry VIII, but its modern claim to fame is the extraordinary 1930s remodelling by wealthy couple Stephen and Virginia Courtauld, who built a glamorous Art Deco mansion directly onto the surviving medieval great hall. Reviewers with a 4.6 rating consistently marvel at how seamlessly the two eras coexist, singling out the circular entrance hall, the library and map room, and the surrounding gardens as highlights of an English Heritage property that feels genuinely unlike anywhere else in London.
Its 90-minute suggested duration reflects a proper visit worth taking slowly, ideal for design and history enthusiasts willing to head slightly outside the centre to Eltham.
Eltham Palace began as a royal residence used by medieval and Tudor monarchs, including a young Henry VIII, but its modern claim to fame is the extraordinary 1930s remodelling by wealthy couple Stephen and Virginia Courtauld, who built a glamorous Art Deco mansion directly onto the surviving medieval great hall. Reviewers with a 4.6 rating consistently marvel at how seamlessly the two eras coexist, singling out the circular entrance hall, the library and map room, and the surrounding gardens as highlights of an English Heritage property that feels genuinely unlike anywhere else in London.
Its 90-minute suggested duration reflects a proper visit worth taking slowly, ideal for design and history enthusiasts willing to head slightly outside the centre to Eltham.
Duration
1h30
Best time
morning, lunchtime or afternoon
Intensity
Moderate walking
Good to know
Reviews
Beautiful place, x3. Stunning architecture! How ever did the architect get Tudor and Art Deco to merge ! They did and the results were amazing. Guides were randomly spaced to assist with queries. Helpful and informative. Even adult dressing up with 1930s props for photo opportunities. Lovely tea room with views to…
David Hamilton
1/5Build your itinerary
City
Dates
Choose your Explorer profile
