How to Tour Kensington Palace Diana Exhibit

Kensington Palace, one of London’s most storied royal residences, holds a profound place in modern British history—not only as a home to generations of the royal family but as the enduring legacy of Princess Diana. The Diana, Princess of Wales: Her Life and Legacy exhibit at Kensington Palace is more than a collection of personal artifacts; it is a deeply moving tribute to a woman whose compassion, style, and humanity reshaped the monarchy’s public image and touched millions around the world. For visitors seeking to understand her life beyond the headlines, this exhibit offers an intimate, curated journey through her most defining moments. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to tour the Diana exhibit at Kensington Palace, ensuring you make the most of your visit with thoughtful preparation, meaningful engagement, and respectful observation. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of Princess Diana, or simply curious about royal heritage, this tutorial will help you navigate the experience with clarity and depth.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting the Diana exhibit at Kensington Palace is a structured yet deeply personal experience. Unlike traditional museum exhibits that rely on dense text panels, this display is designed to evoke emotion through curated objects, multimedia, and spatial storytelling. To fully appreciate the exhibit, follow these seven detailed steps.

1. Plan Your Visit in Advance

Before setting foot on the palace grounds, research opening hours and seasonal variations. Kensington Palace is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM), though hours may vary during holidays or special events. The Diana exhibit is located within the State Apartments and is included in the general admission ticket—no separate booking is required. However, due to high demand, especially during summer months and around the anniversary of her death (August 31), it is strongly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance through the Historic Royal Palaces website. This ensures entry at your preferred time and avoids long queues at the ticket office.

Consider visiting on a weekday morning for the most tranquil experience. Weekends and school holidays often bring larger crowds, making it harder to engage with the exhibits at a reflective pace. Also, check the official website for any temporary closures or special events that might affect access to certain rooms.

2. Arrive Early and Begin with the Palace Grounds

Once you arrive at Kensington Palace, take a moment to absorb the setting. The palace sits within Kensington Gardens, a serene 200-acre royal park designed by landscape architect Capability Brown. The gardens themselves are a living part of Diana’s story—she was known to walk here with her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, often stopping to speak with the public. The Diana Memorial Fountain, located just outside the palace gates, is an excellent starting point for reflection.

Enter the palace through the main gate on Kensington Road. Upon entry, you’ll find the ticket desk, coat check, and information kiosks. Staff are available to answer questions, but most visitors proceed directly to the audio guide rental station. The audio guide is included in the ticket price and is available in multiple languages, including French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Mandarin. It is highly recommended to use this tool, as it provides context that cannot be conveyed through signage alone.

3. Navigate the State Apartments to the Diana Exhibit

The Diana exhibit is not a standalone wing—it is woven into the historic State Apartments, which were once used by Queen Victoria and later by Princess Margaret. As you walk through the grand rooms, you’ll notice subtle changes in display style: ornate gilded mirrors and royal portraits give way to softer lighting, personal photographs, and handwritten notes.

After passing through the King’s State Apartments, follow the clearly marked blue signage toward the “Diana, Princess of Wales: Her Life and Legacy” section. The transition is intentional—visitors move from the formal world of monarchy to the intimate world of a woman who lived within it. The exhibit begins with Diana’s early life: her childhood at Althorp, her education, and her first meeting with Prince Charles. Original letters, childhood photographs, and school reports are displayed under low-light conditions to preserve fragile materials.

4. Engage with the Core Exhibits

The exhibit is divided into thematic zones, each offering a different lens into Diana’s life:

• Early Years and Marriage: This section includes her engagement ring, the iconic 1981 wedding dress designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, and footage of the wedding procession. The dress is displayed in a climate-controlled case with rotating lighting to highlight its intricate lace and 25-foot train.
• Public Life and Charitable Work: Here, you’ll find artifacts from her humanitarian efforts: the gloves she wore when shaking hands with AIDS patients in 1987, the walking stick she used during her visit to Angola’s landmine fields, and handwritten thank-you notes from beneficiaries of her charities. Audio clips of her speeches play softly in the background, allowing visitors to hear her voice in her own words.
• Media and Public Perception: This section explores the intense scrutiny she faced. A wall of newspaper headlines from 1981–1997 shows the evolution of media coverage—from adoration to intrusion. A short documentary, “The Woman Behind the Smile,” plays on a loop and features interviews with close friends, journalists, and palace staff who knew her personally.
• Separation and Independence: After her separation from Prince Charles in 1992, Diana forged a new identity. This area displays her redesigned wardrobe, including the “revenge dress” she wore to the Serpentine Gallery in 1994, alongside her official portraits as a single mother and global advocate.
• Legacy and Memory: The final room is the most emotional. It contains condolence books from around the world, flowers sent to Kensington Palace after her death, and personal items donated by her family. A wall of mirrors reflects the visitor’s image alongside quotes from Diana: “I just wanted to be the Queen of Hearts.”

Each section is designed to be experienced slowly. There are no rush markers, no timed exits. Visitors are encouraged to sit on the plush benches provided and absorb the atmosphere.

5. Use the Audio Guide Effectively

The audio guide is narrated by actress Emma Thompson and features contributions from Diana’s former private secretary, Patrick Jephson, and her dressmaker, Anna Harvey. The guide is divided into 25 segments, each corresponding to a specific artifact or room. To use it effectively:

• Press the button next to each display case to activate the corresponding audio clip.
• Use headphones to avoid disturbing other visitors and to hear subtle details, such as the sound of Diana’s laughter in archival footage.
• Don’t skip the bonus segments—there are three exclusive interviews not available anywhere else, including a conversation with Diana’s childhood nanny and a rare recording of her speaking with her sons.

Many visitors report that the audio guide transforms their understanding of Diana—not as a celebrity, but as a complex, deeply feeling human being. Take notes if you wish; the exhibit allows for quiet journaling.

6. Visit the Additional Historical Spaces

While the Diana exhibit is the centerpiece, the State Apartments contain other historically significant rooms. After completing the exhibit, consider visiting:

• The King’s Gallery: Home to the Royal Collection’s finest portraits, including works by Van Dyck and Lely.
• Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: A breathtaking miniature recreation of an early 20th-century aristocratic home, complete with working plumbing and tiny books written by famous authors.
• The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection: A rotating display of royal garments, including pieces worn by Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret.

These spaces provide valuable context for Diana’s life. Seeing how royal fashion evolved from the 1920s to the 1990s helps visitors understand the weight of tradition she both upheld and challenged.

7. Conclude with Reflection and the Gift Shop

Before leaving, pause in the quiet garden courtyard adjacent to the exhibit exit. A small stone bench bears an inscription: “She had a gift for making people feel special.” This is a perfect place to reflect on your experience.

The gift shop, located just outside the exit, offers a curated selection of books, prints, and keepsakes. Items include:

• “Diana: Her Fashion Story” by Hilary Alexander
• Reproductions of her handwritten letters
• Art prints of her official portraits
• Handmade candles scented with “Diana’s Rose,” a fragrance inspired by her favorite bloom

Proceeds from the shop support the Kensington Palace Conservation Fund and the Diana Award charity, which continues her work empowering young people. Purchasing a souvenir here is not merely commercial—it’s an act of preservation.

Best Practices

To ensure your visit to the Diana exhibit is respectful, meaningful, and memorable, follow these best practices honed by years of visitor feedback and museum standards.

Arrive with Intention

Approach the exhibit not as a tourist attraction, but as a sacred space of memory. Diana’s life was marked by vulnerability, and her legacy continues to inspire global conversations about mental health, compassion, and the cost of fame. Enter with quiet reverence. Avoid loud conversations, especially near personal artifacts and condolence displays.

Respect Photography Rules

Photography is permitted in most areas of the exhibit, but flash is strictly prohibited to protect delicate textiles and paper. Do not take photos of other visitors without their consent. Some sections—particularly the final memorial room—are designated as “no photography” zones to preserve a contemplative atmosphere. Signs are clearly posted; always follow them.

Engage with the Story, Not the Spectacle

It’s easy to be drawn to the glamour—the wedding dress, the tiara, the jewels. But the exhibit’s power lies in its quiet moments: a child’s drawing sent to Diana, a torn letter from a grieving mother, a pair of worn-out walking shoes from her landmine campaign. Look beyond the surface. Ask yourself: What was she feeling here? What did she hope to change?

Allow Time for Emotional Processing

Many visitors report being moved to tears. That is normal. The exhibit does not shy away from grief, loneliness, or loss. If you feel overwhelmed, step outside to the palace gardens. There are benches throughout the grounds for quiet reflection. Do not feel pressured to rush through the experience.

Bring a Notebook or Journal

Writing down your thoughts during or after your visit deepens the experience. Many visitors record quotes that resonate with them, such as Diana’s statement: “I wanted to be a queen of people’s hearts.” These reflections often become personal touchstones long after the visit ends.

Consider the Context of the Palace

Kensington Palace was not just Diana’s home—it was a place of royal duty, isolation, and transformation. Understanding the architecture, the layout, and the history of the rooms helps you see how she navigated a system that often felt alien to her. Notice how the exhibit spaces are smaller, more intimate than the grand halls of state. This was her sanctuary.

Be Mindful of Cultural Sensitivity

Diana’s story resonates across cultures, but interpretations vary. In some countries, she is seen as a symbol of rebellion; in others, as a tragic figure of royal pressure. Avoid imposing your own narrative. Let the exhibit speak for itself. Listen to the voices of those who knew her, not just the media portrayals.

Support the Legacy

After your visit, consider learning more about the charities Diana championed: the National AIDS Trust, the British Red Cross, and the HALO Trust. You can donate, volunteer, or simply share her story with others. True tribute lies in action, not just admiration.

Tools and Resources

Enhance your visit with these carefully selected tools and resources, both digital and physical, designed to deepen your understanding before, during, and after your tour of the Diana exhibit.

Official Website: Historic Royal Palaces

The Historic Royal Palaces website is your primary resource. It offers:

• Detailed exhibit maps and floor plans
• Virtual 360° tour of the Diana exhibit
• Calendar of special events, including lectures and film screenings
• Downloadable educational resources for teachers and students

Bookmark the “Plan Your Visit” section for real-time updates on closures, accessibility, and crowd levels.

Audio Guide App

The official audio guide is available as a smartphone app (iOS and Android) for those who prefer digital access. It includes:

• Offline playback capability
• Subtitles for all audio content
• Extended interviews with historians and family friends
• Time-stamped notes to revisit key moments

Download the app before your visit to ensure seamless integration with the exhibit’s QR code system.

Recommended Reading

For those seeking deeper context, these books are essential:

• “Diana: Her True Story” by Andrew Morton – The groundbreaking 1992 biography that first revealed Diana’s inner struggles. Updated editions include posthumous revelations.
• “Diana: Caring for a Nation” by Kate Aspinall – Focuses on her humanitarian legacy and the evolution of royal charity work.
• “The Diana Chronicles” by Tina Brown – A comprehensive cultural analysis of Diana’s impact on media, fashion, and public life.
• “Diana: A Princess and Her Fashion” by Claire Phillips – A visual archive of her style evolution and its social significance.

Many of these titles are available in the gift shop or as e-books through public library systems.

Documentaries and Films

Before or after your visit, consider watching these critically acclaimed documentaries:

• “Diana: In Her Own Words” (2017) – A BBC production using never-before-heard audio recordings.
• “Diana: 7 Days That Shook the World” (2007) – A dramatized account of the days following her death.
• “The Crown” – Season 4 (Netflix) – While fictionalized, it provides insight into the royal family’s dynamics during Diana’s marriage.

Use these as companion pieces—not replacements—for the exhibit. The real artifacts carry a weight no screen can replicate.

Accessibility Resources

Kensington Palace is fully accessible. The Diana exhibit includes:

• Wheelchair-accessible pathways and elevators
• Large-print exhibit guides
• British Sign Language (BSL) videos for key audio segments
• Sensory-friendly hours on the first Sunday of each month
• Quiet rooms for visitors with autism or anxiety

Request assistance upon arrival. Staff are trained to accommodate diverse needs with dignity and care.

Mobile Apps for Contextual Learning

Download these free apps to enrich your visit:

• Google Arts & Culture – Features high-resolution images of Diana’s dresses and artifacts from the Royal Collection.
• Historic Royal Palaces App – Offers location-based audio tours and augmented reality overlays of historical scenes.
• Wikipedia Mobile – For quick fact-checking on historical figures mentioned in the exhibit.

Use these tools to ask deeper questions: Who designed that gown? What was the political climate when she made that speech? Curiosity enhances understanding.

Real Examples

Real visitor experiences illustrate how the Diana exhibit transforms abstract history into personal revelation. Below are three detailed accounts from individuals who visited the exhibit under different circumstances.

Example 1: A British Teacher’s Reflection

“I brought my Year 10 history class to Kensington Palace as part of our unit on modern monarchy. Most of the students knew Diana as a name from pop culture. None had read her speeches. One girl, Sofia, stayed in the final room for nearly 40 minutes. When I went to check on her, she was writing in her journal: ‘She didn’t want to be perfect. She just wanted to be heard.’ That line became the centerpiece of our class presentation. We ended up creating a school-wide project on ‘Quiet Courage’—inspired by Diana’s charity work. The exhibit didn’t just teach us history. It changed how we see empathy.”

Example 2: An American Visitor’s Journey

“I was 16 when Diana died. I remember watching the funeral on TV with my grandmother. We cried together. Twenty years later, I traveled to London for the first time. I went to Kensington Palace alone. I didn’t know what to expect. When I saw her wedding shoes—scuffed, worn, tiny—I broke down. I realized she was a girl, too. Not a princess. Not a symbol. A girl who was scared, lonely, and trying to love. I bought a postcard of her holding William as a baby. I keep it on my desk. Every morning, I look at it and remember: kindness matters more than perfection.”

Example 3: A Royal Historian’s Perspective

“As a scholar of 20th-century British monarchy, I’ve studied thousands of documents. But nothing prepared me for the emotional impact of the Diana exhibit. The most powerful object? A child’s drawing—‘To Princess Diana, I love you’—signed by a boy from Wales, dated 1993. It was tucked inside a letter from his mother, who wrote: ‘He’s never smiled since he heard you died.’ That’s the heart of it. Diana didn’t change policy with a speech. She changed hearts with presence. The exhibit captures that alchemy better than any academic paper ever could.”

These stories are not anomalies—they are the norm. The exhibit’s design intentionally invites personal connection. It doesn’t tell you what to feel. It creates space for you to feel it.

FAQs

Is the Diana exhibit included in the general admission ticket?

Yes, entry to the Diana, Princess of Wales: Her Life and Legacy exhibit is included in the standard admission ticket to Kensington Palace. No separate booking or fee is required.

How long does it take to tour the Diana exhibit?

Most visitors spend between 60 and 90 minutes exploring the exhibit in depth. If you use the audio guide and read all materials, plan for up to two hours. The surrounding State Apartments add another 30–60 minutes.

Can I take photos inside the exhibit?

Photography without flash is permitted in most areas. Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. Some rooms, particularly the memorial section, are designated as “no photography” zones to preserve a respectful atmosphere.

Is the exhibit suitable for children?

Yes, the exhibit is appropriate for children aged 10 and older. Younger visitors may benefit from the free family activity packs available at the entrance, which include coloring sheets, scavenger hunts, and simplified story cards about Diana’s life.

Are there guided tours of the Diana exhibit?

Yes, free 30-minute guided walkthroughs are offered daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. These are led by trained interpreters and focus on key artifacts and stories. No reservation is needed—just arrive five minutes early at the exhibit entrance.

Can I visit the exhibit if I have mobility issues?

Yes, the entire exhibit is fully wheelchair accessible. Elevators are available, and wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge at the information desk. Sensory-friendly visits are held on the first Sunday of each month.

Is the exhibit permanently open?

Yes, the Diana exhibit is a permanent installation at Kensington Palace. It was opened in 2017 to mark the 20th anniversary of her death and remains a cornerstone of the palace’s programming.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

Spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather and smaller crowds. Avoid school holidays and August, when visitor numbers peak.

Can I bring food or drinks into the exhibit?

No food or drinks are permitted inside the exhibit rooms. However, there are several cafés and picnic areas in Kensington Gardens, just outside the palace gates.

Is there a digital version of the exhibit I can access remotely?

Yes, the Historic Royal Palaces website offers a comprehensive virtual tour, high-resolution images of all artifacts, and downloadable educational materials. While not a replacement for the in-person experience, it’s an excellent resource for those unable to visit.

Conclusion

Touring the Diana exhibit at Kensington Palace is not merely an excursion—it is an act of remembrance, a quiet pilgrimage through the life of a woman who redefined what it meant to be royal in the modern age. Her story is not one of privilege alone, but of pain, resilience, and radical compassion. The exhibit does not glorify; it reveals. It does not sensationalize; it humanizes. By following this guide, you honor not only her memory but the enduring power of empathy in a world that often forgets its value.

As you leave Kensington Palace, carry with you more than photographs or souvenirs. Carry the questions she asked: Who is allowed to feel? Who deserves to be seen? Who gets to be loved? Diana’s legacy is not locked behind glass. It lives in the way we choose to treat one another—with kindness, without judgment, and with the courage to be imperfect.

Visit. Listen. Reflect. And then, go out into the world and be a little more like her.