Former royal conservatory set amid Kensington Gardens.
Set in the perfectly manicured grounds of historic Kensington Palace, the Orangery offers an idyllic setting for afternoon tea for those who want tranquillity and breathtaking views. A great way to enjoy the refreshments on offer here is to first work up an appetite with a stroll through picturesque gardens – open to the public and once a favoured retreat of Diana, Princess of Wales. When you’re ready to relax and quench your thirst, head for the gleam of starched white linen glistening through the Orangery’s spectacular floor-to-ceiling windows. Once inside – shadowed by graceful Corinthian columns and sweeping arches and rows of orange trees in urns – enjoy a traditional afternoon tea complete with strawberries and cream. Built for Queen Anne in 1704, this royal retreat was used to house plants in the winter and became affectionately referred to as the Greenhouse. In the summer it became the venue for glittering court entertainments. No longer the exclusive domain of aristocrats and royals, the Orangery warmly welcomes all diners, proud of its historic building and glorious surrounds. Take a stroll, sup some tea and munch some scones – just don’t drop the jam on the floor…
Best for:
Tranquility, garden views, light and linen, Queen Anne and Corinthian Columns.
Did you know?
Uncertainty reigns concerning the design of the Orangery - some say it is the work of Sir Christopher Wren, others attribute the design to Sir Nicholas Hawksmore.
The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX
Cafe
This classic, 18th century building, which forms part of Kensington Palace, continues to fulfil its original purpose - as a... More
27 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
This famous French patisserie dates back to 1862, when Louis Ernest Ladurée, a miller from southwest France, created a bakery at 16 rue Royale in ... More
31 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
This five star hotel in the heart of Knightsbridge offers a relaxed atmosphere and an excellent range of traditional teas. The most expensive tea option ... More
This excellent cafe is a little pricey but benefits from a beautiful, romantic location inside the gardens of Kensington Palace. Designed by Sir John Vanburgh ... More
4 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
Taking inspiration from Japanese ramman-noodle bars, Wagamama is the ultimate in high-quality, fast food. Huge bowls of steaming, soupy noodles, chicken dumplings with a chilli-soy ... More
6 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
‘Luxury’ best sums up these rooms and apartments overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens in one of London’s most coveted positions. Apartments come with fireplaces, en-suite ... More
12 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
Keys legend Jools Holland returns to the Royal Albert Hall with his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra for two nights of boogie-woogie, swing and ska. Performing ...More
Originally a private country house, public visitors are now warmly welcomed into Kensington Palace – the birthplace of Queen Victoria and home to Princess Diana ... More
Black Lion Gate,
Kensington Gardens,Broad Walk,Bayswater,
London,
W2Map
7 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
This truly magical place is a kiddie's wonderland and the ideal jaunt for family fun. The focal point of the commemorative Diana, Princess of Wales ... More
4 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
Winner of the Prix du Monde, Pierre Marcolini is one of the finest chocolatiers in the world. His layered truffles and home-made pralines are the ... More
5 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
Ultra-chic, ultra-hip cosmetics with colours to die for, all imported from Canada. A must-have for the cosmetics connoisseur. For a treat you can book a ...More
11 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
This is one of London's most prestigious art colleges and the world's only wholly postgraduate university of art and design. You will need at least ... More
An excellent members archery club that shoots in the grounds of Kensington Palace in summer and in Pimlico in winter. Archery is a totally satisfying ... More
7 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
Pretty, traditional pub serving authentic Thai food in a conservatory setting.
Now more England’s national cuisine than sausages and mash, Thai food (the perfect accompaniment to ... More
11 minutes walk from The Orangery (Kensington Palace)
Elevated on an incline in the appropriately named Notting Hill, the rustic old Windsor Castle pub was so-called because in its early days the pub’s ... More
Get the FREE monthly guide to London entertainment, arts, concerts, sport, book signings, and essential event information delivered directly to your inbox.
LondonTown.com has special discounts every week. The amount of discount will vary depending on the dates you are coming and how far in advance you book. All discounts are subject to availability.
Show favourites only
Report a bug, make a suggestion or just tell us your thoughts.
Former royal conservatory set amid Kensington Gardens.
