The Mitre Hampton Court isn't just a hotel. Honestly, calling it a hotel feels a bit like calling the Crown Jewels "some shiny rocks." It sits right on the edge of the Thames, literally across the street from Henry VIII’s front door. You can feel the weight of the Tudor era the second you step onto the property, yet it doesn’t feel like a dusty museum. It’s vibrant. It’s loud in all the right ways.
If you've ever walked past Hampton Court Palace and wondered where the King’s overflow guests stayed, you're looking at it. Built in 1665 at the direction of Charles II, this spot was originally intended to house travelers and courtiers who couldn't fit inside the palace walls. It’s seen a lot. Plague, fire, royal scandals—the walls here have heard it all. But what most people get wrong is thinking it’s just another stuffy, traditional English inn. It’s actually one of the most playful boutique stays in the UK right now.
The Design Chaos That Somehow Works
Most high-end hotels in England follow a script. Beiges, greys, maybe a bit of plaid if they’re feeling "country." The Mitre Hampton Court ignores that script entirely. Nicola Harding, the designer behind the 2020 renovation, clearly had a blast here. You’ll see hand-painted wallpaper, de Gournay-style flourishes, and clashing patterns that should, by all accounts, be an eyesore. Instead, they’re cozy.
One room might have a copper bathtub sitting right at the foot of a four-poster bed. Another might feature a secret door leading to a library. It’s whimsical. It’s the kind of place where you find yourself taking photos of the hallway carpet because the colors are so vivid. Every room is named after a character from history, and they don't just stick to the famous ones. You might find yourself in a suite dedicated to a royal mistress or a court composer.
The building is a Grade II listed structure, which means the floors creak. They slope. If you’re looking for a sterile, soundproof box with a Marriott vibe, you are going to be miserable here. But if you like the idea that your bedroom floor was walked on by people wearing waistcoats three hundred years ago, you’ll love it.
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Eating and Drinking by the Thames
Let's talk about 1665. No, not the year—the brasserie. The terrace at The Mitre Hampton Court is arguably the best spot for a sundowner in all of South West London. When the sun hits the Thames and you’re sitting there with a glass of Whispering Angel or a local craft ale, the rest of the world just sort of disappears.
The food isn't just "hotel food." Chef Ronnie Kimbugwe, who spent years working under Gordon Ramsay, runs the kitchen. He’s focused on British ingredients but isn't afraid to get weird with it. The menu changes, but if you see the Devon crab toastie, just order it. Don't think. Just do it. It’s decadent and salty and exactly what you want after a long day of walking through the palace gardens.
Then there’s Coppernose. This is the more casual "all-day" hangout space. The name is a nod to Henry VIII’s nickname—late in his reign, he debased the currency, and the silver coating on the copper coins would wear off at the highest point: his nose. It’s a cheeky detail that shows the hotel doesn't take itself too seriously. You can grab a coffee there in the morning or a cocktail at night. It’s the heart of the building.
What Most People Miss About the Location
Everyone goes to the Palace. Obviously. You’d be crazy not to see the Great Hall or the Maze. But staying at The Mitre Hampton Court gives you a different perspective on the area.
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Bushy Park is right there. It’s the second-largest of London’s Royal Parks, and it’s arguably better than Richmond Park because it’s less crowded. You can walk out of the hotel lobby, cross the road, and within five minutes, you’re standing in a field with wild red and fallow deer. It’s surreal. You’re technically in Greater London, but it feels like deep Surrey countryside.
The river is the other big draw. The hotel has its own boat, The Mitre, which you can book for private trips. There is something deeply satisfying about pulling up to the hotel’s private mooring after a trip down the Thames. It makes you feel like you’re part of the "in" crowd of the 17th century.
Is It Actually Worth the Price Tag?
Let’s be real. It’s not cheap. You’re paying for the proximity to the Palace and the design pedigree. But here’s the thing: many London luxury hotels feel like they’re trying to sell you a version of England that doesn't exist anymore. The Mitre Hampton Court feels like a living, breathing part of the neighborhood.
The service is "relaxed professional." Don't expect white-glove service where they bow when you enter the room. Expect a guy in a cool vest who knows a lot about local gin and can tell you the best path through the park to avoid the tourists. For some, that’s a turn-off. For me, it’s a breath of fresh air.
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One thing to watch out for: the noise. Because it’s an old building on a main road near a bridge, the front-facing rooms can get some traffic hum. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a courtyard room or something facing the river. The staff are usually pretty good about accommodating this if you book in advance.
Making the Most of Your Stay
If you’re planning a trip, don't just book a Friday night and leave Saturday morning. You’ll miss the vibe. The best way to experience this place is a mid-week stay when the Palace crowds are thinner and you can actually get a seat on the terrace without a reservation.
- Book the "King Henry" Suite if you’re splashing out. It’s the flagship. The views are incredible.
- Take the boat. Seriously. Even if it’s just for an hour. Seeing the Palace from the water is how it was meant to be seen.
- Don't skip breakfast. The "Full Mitre" is a beast, and they use high-quality local sausages that actually taste like meat rather than breadcrumbs.
- Walk to Kingston. It’s a lovely stroll along the Thames Path. It takes about 25-30 minutes and you pass some stunning riverside homes.
The Mitre Hampton Court manages to pull off a difficult trick. It honors the history of one of England’s most famous landmarks without becoming a caricature of it. It’s eccentric, slightly chaotic, and deeply comfortable. It’s the kind of place where you go for one night and end up wishing you’d booked a week.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit
- Check the Palace Schedule: Before booking, check the Hampton Court Palace official website for "Live History" days or evening jousting events. Staying at the Mitre during these times adds a layer of immersion that’s hard to beat.
- Request a River View: When you book, specifically call the front desk to confirm if your room faces the Thames or the interior courtyard. The river view is worth the extra cost for the morning mist alone.
- Pack for the Park: Bring sturdy walking shoes or wellies. Bushy Park is beautiful but can get muddy, and you’ll want to explore the Diana Fountain and the Woodland Gardens.
- Book Dining in Advance: Even if you are a hotel guest, the 1665 Brasserie fills up fast with locals, especially on weekends. Secure your table at the same time you book your room.