For a self-confessed history geek with a particular interest in the Tudors and Cardinal Wolsey, Hampton Court Palace is an absolute treat.
Nestled within the borough of Richard upon Thames and a short train journey from London, when you arrive you can take a lovely riverside walk towards the Royal Palace. Cardinal Thomas Wolsey began building the Palace in 1515 in a distinct Tudor style, in the following century King William III took upon himself a massive rebuilding and expansion project, however, work ceased in 1694, leaving the Palace in two distinct styles; Tudor and Baroque. Hampton Court is one of only two remaining surviving palaces owned by King Henry VIII.
Only £18.40 to visit, the Palace features beautiful gardens, deck chairs scattered across the lawn to soak up the sun; a hedge maze where you come upon a beautiful statue. The Palace itself features sumptuous interiors, beautiful architecture and through the audioguide or, additional guidebook you can purchase in the shop, you can feel history come to life.