Myth and Magic Unfold at Hampton Court Palace this Christmas with the Winter Palace, a new Seasonal Spectacle
Myth, magic and merriment descend upon Hampton Court Palace this Christmas as Historic Royal Palaces unveils a brand-new, seasonal spectacle, drawing guests of all ages into the enchanted world of the Winter Palace: The Christmas Beast Ball.
From 28 November 2026 – 03 January 2027, a rare midwinter enchantment cloaks the grounds and awakens the mythical beasts of Henry VIII’s former Palace, gathering for a celebration like no other. At its heart lies The Christmas Beast Ball in the Cartoon Gallery, where visitors are invited to step into the revelry—dancing alongside fantastical creatures and encountering live performances as the court comes to life. Drawn by the joy of Yuletide, beasts great and small—from mighty dragons to mischievous mice—assemble as lanterns glow, halls hum with music, and the cunning Lord of Revels, Seymour Panther, sets the festivities in motion.
Beyond the ballroom, the tale unfolds throughout the Palace, where each space reveals a new chapter of this immersive, story-led experience. With magic stirring in every corner, visitors can wander through historic rooms transformed into a winter wonderland, dressed in rich jewel tones of gold, emerald and copper, frosted Christmas trees and garlands woven with silk ribbons. Expect playful encounters with puppets and costumed performers, charming installations, and moments of magical storytelling—from the grandeur of the Great Hall, where gifts are displayed before the Winter Court, to the scurrying woodland creatures toiling below in the Wine Cellar.
In the Palace grounds, glide across the iconic Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027), a sparkling outdoor centrepiece set beneath a canopy of twinkling lights. In the gardens, browse artisan food and drink at the annual Festive Fayre (4 – 6 & 11 – 13 December), returning for its 11th year, with carefully curated gifts alongside a host of boutique businesses and independent retailers.
Expect whimsy and wonder as the Winter Palace transforms Hampton Court Palace into a realm of lore and legend. Marking the beginning of a new festive tradition, Winter Palace: The Christmas Beast Ball invites all to discover stories and surprises, where the spirit of Christmas stirs within the Palace walls.
Opening hours for the Winter Palace: The Christmas Beast Ball, Ice Rink and Festive Fayre vary throughout the season. Please visit www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/ for a full breakdown of dates and timings.
Winter Palace: The Christmas Beast Ball Visitor Information
Dates
The Winter Palace runs from 28 November 2026 to 03 January 2027.
- The Palace will be closed on the following dates: 30 November, 1 December, 7–8 December, 14–15 December, and 24–26 December 2026.
Tickets
The Winter Palace is included in palace admission and tickets are on sale now.
Peak: Adult £35 / Child £17.50 / Disabled Person £28 / Universal Credit £1
Off-Peak: Adult £32 / Child £16 / Disabled Person £25.50 / Universal Credit £1
Opening Hours
The Winter Palace is primarily a daytime experience, with extended opening hours available on selected dates until 18:00.
- Winter Hours: 10:00 – 16:30 (last admission slot 14:30–15:00)
- Extended Hours: 10:00 – 19:30 (last admission slot 17:30–18:00)
- Extended Opening Dates: 9 – 11 December, 16 – 17 December, 19 – 23 December, 27 – 30 December
Gardens
The gardens close at 16:30 daily due to limited lighting. On Festive Fayre dates, the gardens remain open until 17:00. Gardens are not open during extended hours.
Festive Fayre
The Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre will take place on 4–6 and 11–13 December 2026.
- Opening times: 10:00 – 17:00
- Last admission slot: 14:30–15:00 (except 11 December: 17:30–18:00)
Ice Rink
The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink will take place from 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.
- For opening hours, please visit: https://hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk/