The Magic Garden

Visiting the Magic Garden

Access during peak times

We are sure you will be thrilled to see the Magic Garden open again after such a long break. If you are returning to visit us, or visiting for the first time, please be prepared to queue, especially if it is a busy day. There will social distancing markers on the ground leading up to the Magic Garden to help everyone feel comfortable.

Once you have queued, coloured wristbands are given to gain entry and have to worn by adults in the garden.

To ensure that everyone has a safe and comfortable experience we may have to suspend entry. You will be able to revisit the garden later in the day if capacity allows.

Members may also have to queue and are subject to the same time limitations as our other visitors.

Hot weather

The Magic Garden is a large open space with plenty of room to run and play. The water features are the perfect way for your little ones to cool off, but there is minimal shade in the Magic Garden and the queueing area.

The dragon's rules

The Magic Garden is protected by our enormous fire-breathing dragon. He has certain rules you must obey, or you may spark his fiery temper!

1. Supervision

Though children are safe with our dragon, they must also be supervised by a responsible parent or carer at all times. The dragon does not allow unsupervised visitors under 16 in his garden.

2. Children's clothing

The Magic Garden play area includes sand, water, AstroTurf and a range of play equipment, some of which may graze sensitive skin. Please make sure your children are appropriately dressed for these conditions. We also ask adults to refrain from wearing swimwear.

3. Smoking and alcohol

No-one is allowed to smoke or vape in the Magic Garden - not even dragons. Alcohol is forbidden too... it could set the dragon's breath alight.

4. Picnicking

The Dragon will eat any picnic blankets or deck chairs being used in the Magic Garden, as we don't want them to get in the way of children playing. We can guide you to some other lovely picnic spots around the palace grounds and you can always come back to play later.

Hear from our members whilst they enjoy a special members-only event in the Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace in this short film.

As a member you can also enjoy family events and days out at our six palaces, including the Tower of London and Kensington Palace.

The Magic Garden has been generously supported by The Gosling Foundation and The Cadogan Charity.

With additional support from The Mercer Family Foundation, The Margaret Giffen Charitable Trust, and The Members and American Friends of Historic Royal Palaces.