Building histories


How the palaces have changed and how their royal owners shaped their development

     

    1. Tower of London
      In the early 1080s, William the Conqueror began to build a massive stone tower
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    2. Hampton Court Palace
      From its humble medieval beginnings to the grace-and-favour period and today.
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    3. Banqueting House
      From archbishops’ residence to splendid venue for entertaining today
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    4. Kensington Palace
      Originally a private country house, the building was acquired by William III and Mary II in 1689 and was adapted for royal residence by Sir Christopher Wren.
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    5. Kew Palace
      From rich merchant’s house to royal home of George III and members of his family.
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