Lambeth Palace has functioned as the home and central office for the Archbishop of Canterbury for almost 800 years. Book a tour to glimpse inside the 13th-century chapel and crypt as well as the state rooms. Wander around the gorgeous palace gardens at your leisure.
The palace was first built in the 13th century though only small parts of the original structure remain. Join a tour and look for the fine red-brick Tudor gatehouse, which is among the architectural highlights of the palace complex. Commissioned by Cardinal John Morton in around 1490, the building features two five-story towers as well as battlements.
Hear stories from the guide explaining how the palace has changed over the years as you amble around the grounds. Descend into the crypt and inspect a fresco depicting Christ in Glory, a gift from Pope Paul VI to Archbishop Ramsey in 1966.
Discover Lambeth Palace Gardens, known as one of the oldest continuously cultivated gardens in London. See spring bulbs, blossoms and an array of colorful flora in this pretty 10-acre (4-hectare) garden.
Lambeth Palace is also near a number of other London attractions, including Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament and Tate Britain. Consider combining a trip here with a visit to the Imperial War Museum London, which contains exhibits on Britain’s armed forces and artworks inspired by various conflicts.
Find Lambeth Palace on the south bank of the River Thames. To get here, ride the Tube to Lambeth North station. The gardens are open to the public on the first Wednesday of the month between March and October. Tours are held sporadically check the website for dates, times and admission fees. The palace also has a small on-site gift shop selling souvenirs and guidebooks.
