The Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt is back at Hampton Court Palace during the Easter holidays. Harry in particular likes an Easter trail and even better if there is a chocolate treat at the end of it. Normally a chocolate egg, so he was impressed that this year he would be able to have one of the Lindt Gold bunnies instead. The Hampton Court Easter event runs from March 23rd to the 14th of April 2024. Here’s how we got on when we visited at the weekend.
Review Lindt Gold Bunny Easter Hunt at Hampton Court Palace
This was our first time visiting the Lindt Gold Bunny Easter Hunt. Back by popular demand, this self-led trail will take you all over King Henry VIII ‘s gardens. Taking you to the best bits trying to hunt out 12 different gold bunnies. It is a great way to spend Easter weekend and the perfect way to start your Easter activities.
How to get to Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court is located in East Molesey in South London. When we visited we decided to drive although it is recommended to use public transport where possible. Since parking is limited at the Palace (see below).
- Train – Is a good choice as Hampton Court train station is only a few minutes walk away. There are direct trains from London Waterloo which take around 35 minutes. As we live in Sussex we would need to go into London before coming back out again.
- Bus – There are several bus routes that stop near Hampton Court Palace you can find out more on the TFL website.
- Boat – In the Summer months then you can catch a boat along the river Thames that stops at Hampton Court. When we visited at Easter there were very few boats running but it makes a unique way to arrive. You can find out more on the Thames River Boat website as there are a few running over Easter. We have also hired a Go Boat from Kingston which is also really fun.
- Bike – You can also reach the palace along the Thames path and there are bike racks at the palace.
Parking at Hampton Court Palace
Due to our location driving was the best option for us. However is a very popular attraction and so the onsite car park can get very full. When we arrived it was already full. However, Hampton Court has details of other parking locations on its website. The one we have used before and used when we visited is the Hampton Court Green carpark. This costs £1.50 an hour and you need to pay via the PayByPhone app. Although the machines looked like they also took cash. It is the ideal place to park since it is only a short walk to the palace. You can use the postcode – KT8 9BP.
Lindt Gold Bunny Easter Hunt at Hampton Court Palace – what to expect
When you arrive you can pick up a trail map in the information centre. Or as you walk into the gardens where you show your entrance tickets. If you are feeling particularly organised then there is even a copy of the trail sheet on the website that you can download. The Lindt gold bunny Easter hunt takes place in the palace’s acres of gardens. Where you need to find twelve hidden Lindt gold bunny statues. On each one, there is a red ribbon, with the name of the important palace character.
Next to each bunny a board which tells you about the historical figures and gives you a challenge. Normally family activities such as patting your head and rubbing your belly at the same time. It is an excellent opportunity to get the kids walking around the grounds and enjoying the stunning gardens without too many moans. The Lindt gold bunny Easter hunt is included in the ticket price.
Top Tips for a Visit
If you are planning on visiting the Easter egg trail (bunny trail), then you may find some of these tips useful to make the most of your visit.
- Hampton Court Palace has brilliant outdoor play areas. We always have a brilliant time at the Magic Garden, which is located near the kitchen garden. I have written more about the Magic Garden. It is worth making it one of your first stops as it gets very busy during peak times. Numbers are limited and you are given a timed exit on entry. Don’t forget wellies for the sand pits and water play during the colder months.
- It is a good idea to book your ticket online in advance. Entry price varies depending on peak and off-peak times. Much of Easter is classed as an off-peak ticket. If you time your ticket at the right time then you will also get access to the Festival of the Tulips. That runs from the 8th of April to the 24th of April.
- It was very cold when we visited so wrapping up warm is essential. It takes around 90 minutes to complete the trail. If you would would prefer something alternative to the chocolate reward then younger children can opt for a sticker.
More Tips …
- The trail is aimed at 3-12-year-olds, but there is also a lot for children to do and see. I have tried to capture more details here – Hampton Court Palace for kids.
- There are several places where you can eat or purchase drinks if it is too cold for a picnic. We headed to the cafe which was not too busy and enjoyed a couple of hot sausage rolls and a wide range of cakes, and hot and cold drinks. They also have children’s lunchbox options.
- A family ticket is available if you purchase a year’s family membership to HRP – Historic Royal Palaces. For two adults and up to six children to be an annual member of the Royal Palaces costs £120. The cost for two adults and two children to Hampton Court Palace is £81.60. By purchasing the membership you will get free entry to the six HRP properties.
Conclusions
It was one of the best Easter egg hunts we have done. Since there is also so much to keep the adults entertained as well at the historic site it is suitable for the whole family. Also a great option if you have a larger age gap between kids. Just don’t forget to bring your bunny ears for the annual Easter egg hunt!
If you have enjoyed this blog post then you may also be interested in some of the Historic Royal Palaces we have visited. Including Windsor Castle, Kensington Palace and The Tower of London.
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