Fulham Palace, a site long on my list, is rich in history and surrounded by beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city… and it’s completely free!
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON invites you to discover this hidden gem in the heart of Fulham!
Fulham Palace: a rich history
Fulham Palace served as the official residence of the bishops of London. Its history stretches back over 1,300 years and encompasses 133 Bishops of London!
As I found out, the Bishop of London holds a prestigious position within the Church of England, overseeing the Diocese of London. An area north of the River Thames that encompasses numerous royal palaces, Westminster, and the City of London.
The Bishops of London have significantly influenced British history, participating in key national and international events such as signing the Magna Carta, conducting coronations, and supervising the church’s operations in the British colonies.
It is thus quite poignant to enter this Palace, even though there are few artefacts and pieces of furniture remaining to vividly depict how the Bishops once lived here.
The Palace really shines with its variety of tours offered throughout the week. They cover diverse subjects such as history, archaeology (for both adults and kids audiences), architecture, and guided garden walks.
There are also temporary exhibitions, with the current one titled “The Bishops of London, Colonialism, and Transatlantic Slavery: Resistance,” definitely worth checking out.
Fulham Palace: a look inside the House
Walking through the palace rooms, I was surrounded by portraits of bishops, each echoing stories of the palace’s rich and fascinating past.
The library stands out as the best-preserved room in Fulham Palace, housing numerous ancient religious books that have endured for centuries…
You’ll find long corridors and several rooms to explore, including the one where important meetings once took place.
The adjacent church is also well worth a visit, full of character and history.
Fulham Palace charming Café
Last but definitely not least, and possibly the main highlight if historic houses aren’t your thing, or you’ve already explored the Palace, is the café!
Easily accessible from the Thames or the lively streets of Fulham, the café is open daily and offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle!
With its cosy, welcoming vibe and a charming view of the gardens, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge. Plus, the food and drinks are absolutely delicious, a real treat during your visit!
Fulham Palace stunning gardens
This is in my opinion the best part of the estate!
The botanic garden at Fulham Palace not only is free of access, but it also covers 13 acres and features beautiful plantings, rare trees, and a charming walled garden. This is a true gem in London!
The garden at Fulham Palace is a delightful mix of landscapes. Lush green lawns stretch around the Palace, guiding you toward the inviting entrance of the café.
The enchanting walled garden
Beyond that, you’ll find the walled garden, full of herbs, flowers, and greenery, with lovely old greenhouses that give it loads of character.
It’s the kind of place where you just want to slow down, wander around, and enjoy the atmosphere.
You can even take a piece of the garden home by purchasing plants and goodies to inspire your own green thumb.
Wisteria hysteria!
Spring transforms the garden into a sensory dream, with bursts of colour, soft light, and delicate floral scents drifting through the air.
April is the perfect time to visit the walled garden, when the wisteria is in full bloom.
Cascading in elegant purple and lilac trails over walls and archways, it fills the space with fragrance and creates one of the most magical scenes in Fulham Palace!
I hope you’ve enjoyed your exploration of Fulham Palace! If you’re planning a visit soon, I’d love to hear about it on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
Find more of my must-visit gems here.
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To go further:
Fulham Palace House and Gardens: Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham, London SW6 6EA.
