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Winter Palace runs at Hampton Court Palace from 28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Brand new for 2026, it is an immersive, theatrical Christmas experience woven through the palace's historic rooms. Mythical creatures, puppets, live performance and music reveal the story of a Christmas Beast Ball room by room.
Panther is the mischievous Lord of Revels who keeps the ball lively. The Winter Phoenix is associated with midwinter renewal and appears in a burst of colour and light. The gentle Unicorn Foal is described as the palace's most precious inhabitant. The sleeping Dragon Guardian is an ancient, watchful keeper of time.
Winter Palace is included in standard palace admission. Historic Royal Palaces members go free but must pre-book. See current palace ticket prices and visitor information.
Much of the palace is transformed for Winter Palace. A selection of undecorated historic routes remains available for visitors who prefer to explore the palace's history without festive theming.
The palace stays open until 19:30 on 9–11, 16–17 and 19–30 December 2026, with the last entry or timeslot at 17:30. Standard hours on other dates are listed in the visitor information guide.
The Festive Fayre takes place in the Great Fountain Garden on 4–6 and 11–13 December 2026. The nearby Ice Rink requires a separate ticket.
This independent guide uses the official Winter Palace page as its source. Programming and prices can change, so always confirm before travelling. Information checked on 13 September 2026.