Explore the formal gardens at Hampton Court Palace for free on selected open days this autumn and winter. No ticket or pre-booking is needed for 10 and 11 October, 21 and 22 November, or 26 December.

Check garden open-day details →

What is included?

The free days cover the formal gardens. The palace itself, the Maze and the Magic Garden are not included and need a paid palace ticket. On 26 December, only the Wilderness garden is open free of charge.

The palace is a short walk from Hampton Court station, across the bridge from East Molesey. The gardens are outdoors, so dress for the weather and for a fair amount of walking.

Do I need to book a garden open day?
No. Historic Royal Palaces says no ticket or pre-booking is required for the free garden dates.
Can I visit the palace too?
Not with the free garden entry. The palace, Maze and Magic Garden require paid admission.
What is open on Boxing Day?
On 26 December, the free access is limited to the Wilderness garden.

Source and last check

Details checked on 5 October 2026 using Historic Royal Palaces’ official Hampton Court gardens page. Opening hours vary by date, so use the organiser’s current times before travelling.