Highlight • Monument
Hiking
4.9
(49)
Eltham Palace and Gardens is a truly unique historical site nestled in southeast London, within the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Standing at an elevation of 63 meters, this man-made monument offers a fascinating journey through time, seamlessly blending a medieval royal residence with a striking 20th-century Art Deco mansion. It's renowned for its architectural juxtaposition, featuring the magnificent Great Hall from the 1470s alongside the glamorous interiors of the 1930s.
Visitors consistently rave about the palace's extraordinary blend of history…
Tips
October 30, 2019
Hiking
July 11, 2021
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December 30, 2021
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Eltham Palace and Gardens
4.7
(3)
17
hikers
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
10.8km
02:48
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m
Adult: £15.40 Child (5-17 years): £9.20 Family (2 adults and up to 3 children): £40.00
Contacts
Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, London, SE9 5QE
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Sunday 15 March
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3°C
89 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h
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While assistance dogs are welcome inside the palace and gardens, general visitor dogs are permitted only in the outdoor garden areas and must be kept on a lead at all times. They are not allowed inside the palace buildings, including the Great Hall and Art Deco interiors.
Eltham Palace is well-connected by public transport. You can take a train to Eltham station, which is about a 15-20 minute walk from the palace. Alternatively, several local bus routes stop near the entrance. For detailed planning, check the Transport for London (TfL) website.
English Heritage aims to make Eltham Palace as accessible as possible. The ground floor of the palace, including the Great Hall and some Art Deco rooms, is generally accessible. The gardens feature some paved paths, but certain areas, especially the rock garden and some sloped lawns, may be challenging. It's advisable to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date accessibility information and any specific limitations.
Eltham Palace is very family-friendly. Children can enjoy exploring the palace with interactive multimedia guides, trying on period costumes, and learning about the Courtaulds' pet lemur, Jongy. There's also a dedicated playground inspired by the Courtaulds' world travels, offering an engaging outdoor experience for younger visitors.
Yes, there is a cafe on-site at Eltham Palace offering refreshments, light meals, and snacks. For more extensive dining options, the surrounding Eltham area has a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants within walking distance or a short drive.
Eltham Palace is an excellent choice for a rainy day as much of the experience is indoors. You can spend ample time exploring the magnificent medieval Great Hall and the stunning Art Deco interiors of the Courtaulds' residence. The multimedia guides provide an immersive experience, and there are often indoor activities or exhibitions to enjoy.
As a popular attraction, Eltham Palace can experience higher visitor numbers on weekends, especially during peak seasons like summer and school holidays. To enjoy a quieter visit, consider arriving shortly after opening time or visiting later in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
The gardens offer several picturesque spots. The Rock Garden, with its pools and cascades leading down to the moat, provides a beautiful naturalistic feature and lovely views. You can also enjoy views across the moat from London's oldest working bridge. The formal gardens and herbaceous borders offer seasonal beauty and photographic opportunities.
While the palace gardens themselves offer pleasant walks, there are also opportunities for circular walks in the wider Eltham area. You can explore local parks and green spaces surrounding the palace. Hikers can use komoot to discover and plan routes that incorporate the palace and its scenic surroundings.
Opening hours and ticket prices vary by season and are subject to change. It is highly recommended to check the official English Heritage website (english-heritage.org.uk) directly for the most current information, including any pre-booking requirements.
Eltham is a residential area within southeast London, offering various accommodation options ranging from local guesthouses to larger hotels in nearby areas. For specific recommendations, it's best to search online travel platforms for hotels and B&Bs in Eltham or Greenwich.