Hampton Court Palace vs Bleinham Palace

[Zapx]

Thinking of doing either of these two in the coming days - is there a winner? I’ll have 3 kids between 2 and 7 with me and possibly an elderly grandparent. The Hampton court palace ticket appears to include the Tower of London which I’d definitely be up for doing so that might swing it slightly, would love to hear thoughts if you’ve been to either though!

Hampton Court would be the winner for me. It's also got the maze and a great playground for kids.
Ticket doesn't usually include the Tower though unless you've got a special deal?

I too would go with Hampton Court, especially with that age range. Blenheim is spectacular but you don't see that much of it and I think Hampton Court is better value and has more to do. Easier to get to by public transport if that's relevant.

From those two I'd choose Hampton Court, because of the historical associations with so many famous people, Cardinal Wolsey, Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII and his wives etc. Also the buildings and gardens have been created over many years, so will have plenty of interesting features.

Hampton Court has a fantastic children's playground, has a train station next door, and is on the edge of lovely Bushy Park.

The magic garden at Hampton Court is amazing for children those ages. (Be ready for bare feet and splashing (maybe take swimwear or clothes change) as there are brilliant play fountains and a lovely stream with sand for dam building.) Enjoy!

Hampton Court is by the Thames… lovely garden too. They can’t mean for you to do HCP and the Tower in one day? It’s at least an hour in public transport if not a bit more (changing a couple of times).

There are loads of places to eat around HCP also. Be aware though that their music festival starts soon and that might impact parts of the daytime experience , especially while they are building the stage and seating in the courtyard

Hampton Court knocks spots off Blenheim - more interesting and fewer people, and more variety of stuff to see and do. If you join Historic Royal Palaces when you book, you get discounts in the gift shop and free entry to the Tower of London and Kensington Palace as well.

Wow thanks so much everyone! Hampton Court it is! Thanks for the tips on the magic garden @Missingthesnow2 will take swimming stuff as I’m sure they’ll love an opportunity to get involved in that 😊

Yes. You can pop over the road to see the deer.

Definitely Hampton Court. You can bring your own food and just sit on a bench in the courtyard or in the gardens.

I found Blenheim stunning from the outside and the grounds but otherwise it felt like a typical stately home and as it's still lived-in, you have limitation what you can see.

If you or your DH have a public sector job you can join an organisation called Boundless and get the entry fee more cheaply (depending on the ages of the children and whether you bring another adult).

This link gives us both a tenner if you join:
www.boundless.co.uk/recommend/70042190

Here to say Blenheim - can't believe no one else has! Blenheim is undoubtedly the most palatial of all palaces - second only to Buckingham. I think it's absolutely breathtaking, I did not have that reaction at Hampton Court which looks like a municipal building in comparison from the outside. You also have the various pleasure gardens for kids including a new one that requires some kind of separate ticket. You've got the train to get around and the different garden routes.
Obviously a Tower of London ticket does give a different spin on it and great value. Really depends how far you want to travel as I'm sure to kids one stately home and playground is much like another. I believe at Blenheim you get a free annual pass to return.

Just to add that the Boundless membership gives you access to HCP and the Tower of London for a year, for two adults and two children.

Blenheim is very impressive too.

Hampton Court which looks like a municipal building in comparison from the outside.
I mean it's not as grand,sure but it's still stunning

Hampton Court every time! It's far more historically and architecturally interesting. Blenheim is just an oversized stately pile and it often feels like their garden is just too big for their budget so corners are cut. I think Chatsworth is nicer for a very similar experience.

I’m local to Blenheim and in previous years, have always had an Annual Pass. It’s very much become a “money grabbing” venue over the last couple of years so I’d definitely recommend Hampton Court instead. Blenheim charges an extortionate fee to get in, an extra fee for the adventure play ground, (including accompanying adults) and their food/drink options are also pricey. When we had annual passes, we always grabbed coffee & cake there when out for a walk but last year they were charging £5 a slice for a very dry, underwhelming slice of mass produced cake. They really aim to profit from overseas tourists.
if by any chance you do go to Blenheim, walk out of the side gate into Woodstock and buy some lunch at one of the many local cafes. They offer good quality home-made food at much more reasonable prices.

Exactly my thoughts.

I have been to both Hampton Court and Blenheim and Hampton Court wins hands down. Also Chatsworth definitely surpasses Blenheim IMO.