South East London has had a bad rep for quite sometime now. Mainly due to its knife crime, unaffordable housing and an unhealthy amount of road works BUT back in the day South East London was actually seen as a nice place to live. I know right!
Eltham Palace’s origins can be traced back to the medieval period. It was in the Domesday Book of 1086 which first mentions a manor house in Eltham. If you don’t know what the Domesday Book is, it’s the equivalent to what ChatGPT is today. It was around 300 years later, however during the reign of Edward II (a nobody King, don’t worry) when Eltham Palaces’ royal makeover begun. This makeover laid the ground work for what you see before you today.
History of Eltham Palace
Like anything old and British there has to be liquid around it and Eltham Palace is no exception. The moat at Eltham Palace was added in the 14th century, during the reign of King Edward III (Again nothing juicy). It was constructed as part of the significant renovations and enhancements made to the palace during this period. The addition of the moat not only served a defensive purpose but also contributed to the palace’s grandeur and splendor, reflecting the status and power of the monarchy.
It’s now the 15th century and King Edward III is brown bread with his great-great grandson Edward IV now at the helm. Unlike his great-great grandfather, King Edward IV does not reside at Eltham. Edward IV much prefers the hustle and bustle life of London, spending most of his evenings at Westminster Palace and other royal residences.
However, Edward IV did make significant renovations and expansions to Eltham Palace during his reign, including the addition of the Great Hall which still stands to this day. The Great Hall is a giant timber-framed structure which is characterised by soaring ceilings, magnificent hammer-beam designs and intricate carvings.
The Great Hall would have played a central role in the social and ceremonial life of Eltham Palace during the medieval period as it would have been the focal point for royal gatherings, banquets, and celebrations.
The 17th century has now arrived and Eltham Palace isn’t getting the love it used to. King James I (The fella who Guy Fawkes tried to blow up) has decided to move counties to the stuck up Hampton Court in Surrey, leaving Eltham Palace alone and neglected (aww). ALSO during the 17th century there’s a massive civil war happening between the Royalists (People who like the Royals) and the Parliamentarians (People who like Parliament). I know crazy right! People actually used to like both of them.
Eventually the Parliamentarians won and King Charles I (Son of King James I) is executed meaning Parliament are now in control of the country and all her land/properties. After being passed around more than a stoners lighter, Eltham Palace ends up having no owner who can actually afford her.
The 18th century has finally rocked up and the monarchy is back up and running but annoyingly they are staying at Windsor Castle instead now.
As no one is living in Eltham Palace anymore due to the estate constantly changing hands and no maintenance ever taking place, the former Tudor palace begins to decay/fall apart and by the end of the 18th century Eltham Palace’s whole surroundings are left in disrepair.
Skipping the whole 100 years of the 19th century we have landed in the happy go lucky 20th century and Eltham Palace is about to get back on her feet.
In 1933 the wealthy Art Deco loving couple of Stephen and Virginia Courtauld acquire the ruins of Eltham Palace and embark on an ambitious project to restore and remodel the property. The Courtaulds enlisted the services of leading architects and designers, including Seely & Paget, to transform Eltham Palace into a stylish and innovative residence. They incorporated Art Deco and modernist design elements into the existing medieval and Tudor structures, creating a unique blend of old vs new.
The interiors of Eltham Palace were lavishly decorated with luxurious furnishings, exquisite artworks, and state-of-the-art amenities. The Courtaulds spared no expense in creating a comfortable and elegant living environment, complete with modern conveniences such as central heating, telephones, and electric lighting.
In addition to renovating the palace itself, the Courtaulds also landscaped the gardens and grounds surrounding the property. They created formal gardens, a sunken rose garden, and a picturesque moat, enhancing the beauty and tranquility of the estate.
Under the Courtaulds’ ownership, Eltham Palace became a vibrant social hub, hosting parties, receptions, and gatherings attended by royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries. The palace was renowned for its glamorous atmosphere and high-society events.
During World War II, Eltham Palace suffered some damage from bombing raids, but the Courtaulds remained at the property throughout the war and continued to entertain guests. After the war, they undertook repairs and restoration work to return the palace to its former glory.
We are now in the 21st century (The century we live in now incase you was wondering) and the Courtaulds left Eltham Palace a long time ago (1944 if you really wanted to know) but unlike the 18th and 19th century the Courtaulds left the palace in the capable hands of the Ministry of Works and later English Heritage. Who have since opened the historic site to the public as a tourist attraction.
Visiting Eltham Palace
If this blog post tickled your fancy and you are like “I wanna go there” which I hope you are then please see some further details below.
Address: Eltham Palace Court Yard Eltham Greenwich London SE9 5QE United Kingdom
Opening Hours: 10am to 4pm everyday except Mondays & Tuesday.
How To Book Your Tickets – Eltham Palace Ticket
Parking: Yes there is parking on site but you will need to pay.