Kensington Palace

Acquired by William and Mary in 1689, Kensington Palace was radically altered first by Sir Christopher Wren and again in the reign of George I, when William Kent added the intricate trompe l'oeil ceilings and staircases. The Palace has recently re-opened after major refurbishment, with improved visitor access and facilities as well as 'Victoria Revealed', a new, permanent exhibition, which looks at the life and reign of Victoria through her own words. Visitors learn about Victoria's first day as Queen at Kensington Palace, the early days of her relationship with Prince Albert, their family life and aspects of Albert's involvement in the 1851 Great Exhibition. Exhibits include Victoria's wedding dress and jewellery, along with personal objects including paintings by Winterhalter and Landseer and gifts that Victoria exchanged with Albert during their engagement. There are also replica Victorian toys and interactive displays including clothes to try on.