Lambeth Palace Open Days

Lambeth Palace is the historic home of the Archbishops of Canterbury. Parts of the grand building and its gardens date back to the medieval era, making this fascinating and distinctive place one of the oldest landmarks in South Bank.

Located just off the river behind the St Thomas’ Hospital and Lambeth Palace Library, this deceptively large complex is usually not open to the public as it functions as the full-time home of the sitting Archbishop. However, the Palace and its gardens do host regular open days with admission tickets raising money for local charities.

Due to renovation work in the Palace Gardens, this year the Palace itself will open its doors for a series of Heritage Open Palace Experience (HOPE) days.

During the HOPE Day, visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of the Palace’s most historic and significant spaces, including the State Rooms, the stunning 14th-century Guard Room halls, the sacred Crypt Chapel and the Great Hall.

As part of the Open Day afternoon, there is also a tea garden set up in the palace courtyard, where you can sit and enjoy live music and refreshments.

Each HOPE Day is held in support of a different local charity. The summer 2026 HOPE Day programme runs as follows:

Fri 29 May: Help Musicians

Help Musicians is the UK’s leading charity supporting professional musicians of all genres, from those just starting out to people in retirement. For over 100 years, the charity has provided vital support through financial assistance, health and wellbeing services, and career development opportunities, helping musicians navigate both moments of crisis and opportunity. BOOK HERE

Fri 26 June: Arts for Dementia

Arts for Dementia works to transform the lives of people living with early‑stage dementia, and those who care for them, through inspiring arts experiences. The charity collaborates with artists and cultural organisations to deliver creative workshops that boost confidence, wellbeing and connection—championing the powerful role of the arts in enabling people with dementia to live fuller, more active lives. BOOK HERE

Fri 31 July: Mothers' Union

Mothers' Union is a global Christian charity with members in over 80 countries, working to support family life and strengthen communities. Founded in 1876, the movement puts faith into action through practical outreach, advocacy and prayer, promoting peace, justice and compassion while responding to local needs with care and generosity. BOOK HERE

Fri 28 August: The Passage

The Passage is one of the UK’s leading charities dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in London. Working in areas of greatest need, the charity supports people experiencing or at risk of homelessness through immediate help, accommodation, and long‑term pathways to stability—ensuring everyone has the opportunity to find safety, dignity and a place to call home. BOOK HERE