Oliver Cromwell's Palace - Hampton Court During the Interregnum

A regicide might be the last person you'd think would save a king's palace – but in Oliver Cromwell, Hampton Court found an unlikely admirer.

During his time as Head of State, Cromwell's family filled Hampton Court with music, art and beauty – and even some scandalous statues – as their family home. In doing so, they saved it from the threat of demolition, and ensured its survival until Charles II returned in 1660.

In this episode, join Assistant Curator Minette Butler as she explores Hampton Court through new eyes, looking for glimpses of this intriguing period. What was it like to visit this royal palace without a king? And how does Cromwell fit into the palace's history?

Explore the Tudor gardens that Cromwell would have known on our website.