The 1930s entrance hall features a distinctive glass-domed ceiling designed by Seely & Paget.
The house includes a specialized room built specifically to house the Courtaulds' pet ring-tailed lemur, Mah-Jong.
Hidden behind the circular veneer paneling in the master bedroom is a sophisticated safe built into the wall.
During the Second World War, the palace survived heavy bombing, though its exterior suffered damage from nearby incendiary devices.
The medieval Great Hall was constructed under the orders of Edward IV in the 1470s.
The house contains one of the earliest examples of an en-suite bathroom integrated with a sunken mosaic-tiled bath.
Eltham Palace is a unique site that combines a medieval royal palace with an opulent 1930s Art Deco mansion. Originally a favored residence for medieval monarchs, the site was transformed by Stephen and Virginia Courtauld into a modernist luxury home. The Great Hall, dating back to the 15th century with its hammerbeam roof, stands as the only significant remnant of the original medieval structure. The Art Deco interior features exotic veneers, circular motifs, and cutting-edge 1930s technology, including central heating and internal telephone systems. The surrounding 19 acres of gardens integrate historic moats, stone bridges, and formal rock gardens. The property is managed by English Heritage and is open to the public for tours of the interior and grounds.
The view of the 15th-century stone bridge crossing the moat, which captures both the medieval and Art Deco architecture.
Visit the medieval bridge and moat early to avoid crowd congestion at the entrance.
Download the English Heritage audio guide app before arriving to enhance the self-guided tour experience.
Check the official website for seasonal events, as the grounds often host themed activities for families.
Do not attempt to walk through the gardens without appropriate footwear, as paths can be uneven and the area is large.
Opening days vary seasonally; typically closed on some weekdays during the winter season.
Indoor photography is permitted for private, non-commercial use, but tripod use is restricted; avoid touching historic surfaces.
