Stuart WoodHampton Court Palace played host to the Festive Fayre from 7-9 December, welcoming an expected 15,000 visitors to over 90 stalls featuring festive food and drinks.
Hampton Court is one of six palaces cared for by independent charity Historic Royal Palaces. The Festive Fayre was organised in partnership with River Street Events, and was held in the palace’s atmospheric courtyards.
The festival enabled visitors to retrace the steps of one of Hampton Court’s most well-known residents, King Henry VIII, and enjoy an array of artisan producers and gifts.
The festival included the HRP Food Festivals’ signature mix of live cooking demonstrations from culinary experts including Marcus Bean and Alex Hollywood, along with artisan producers, street food, music and entertainment.
Entry into the palace was included as part of the ticket price, allowing access to over 60 acres of formal gardens alongside the stunning State Apartments and Henry VIII’s kitchens.
Liz Young, head of events at Historic Royal Palaces, said: “We thoroughly enjoyed our Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace this weekend, rounding off what has been an incredible new series of our rebranded HRP Food Festivals.
“We pride ourselves on being able to host unique experiences across our portfolio of venues, and are looking forward to developing these exciting events even further.
“In addition to the fabulous exhibitors and demonstrations on offer at each of our food festivals, visitors play their part in ensuring the palaces continue to be well maintained and open for all to enjoy, with income raised from commercial activities reinvested in conservation, public access and educational activities.”
Images credit: Hayley Bray