Kew Palace was built in 1631 for Samuel Fortrey, a Flemish merchant and later acquired by George II in 1729 as lodging for his three eldest daughters. His son, George III and his large family used Kew Palace extensively as their summer residence and it was first opened to the public by his granddaughter Queen Victoria.
In 2006, the palace was reopened to the public after a painstaking, ten-year restoration and conservation project undertaken by Historic Royal Palaces. Research for the restored interior drew on tax stamps on the back of wallpaper, catalogues from the company which provided the carpets (and continues to trade to this day) and even the doll’s house played with by George III and Queen Charlotte’s daughters. Original decorative features have been meticulously uncovered or faithfully reproduced using traditional techniques, recreating with remarkable accuracy the palace as it would have been when George III and his family lived there.
Today, you can welcome your guests into this tiny, perfectly formed royal palace and its charming outbuilding – the Royal Kitchens and Queen Charlotte’s Cottage. Their beauty and history promise to fascinate and enchant your guests. Set within the fantastic Royal Botanic Gardens, this picturesque palace is an ideal location for summer weddings, family celebrations and corporate functions.
The Kings Dining Room within Kew Palace can seat 24 of your most fascinating colleagues and friends for intimate dinners. Beforehand guests can enjoy a reception in the King’s Breakfast Room where they can have a glimpse into King George III family’s favourite pastimes. Or if the weather is fine the Queen’s Garden makes a wonderful space for summer receptions. Laid out in a 17th century style, the garden includes a gazebo, Florentine sculpture, a sunken garden and a ‘mount’ crowned with a rotunda.
The Royal Kitchen’s is Kew Palace’s newest space available for hire. A wonderfully atmospheric venue it is available for large receptions of up to 60 or dinners for 24. Guests will enter the Royal Kitchens’ most impressive room complete with its roasting range, charcoal grill, pastry oven and kitchen table.
Set amongst the bluebells, Queen Charlotte’s Cottage was where the royal family picnicked and took tea on summer walks through the gardens. Today, this romantic cottage and its rural setting can accommodate 40 for a reception or 24 for dinner.
Kew Palace is available to hire for dinners or receptions in the summer months (April to September) from 6.00pm until 10.30pm. Full day hire is available in March and October.
Guests will be treated to a private tour of the palace, including areas not open to the public, providing a truly rich and unique experience.
Kew Palace operates a list of approved suppliers for catering and floristry.