2013-03-27

From 27 March a new temporary exhibition opens at Hampton Court Palace in the Baroque state apartments - the story of the State Beds gives an insight into the fascinating world of the 17th and 18th Century Court; how it influenced and in turn was influenced by wider political, religious and social changes.

The rituals of the bedchamber, from morning levée to evening couchée were performed in and around these magnificent beds. Courtiers embarked on a social climbing venture to get as close to the bedchamber as possible where, if they were deemed worthy, their Monarch would receive them.

Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber will reveal not only the extraordinary bizarre rituals of the Stuart and Hanoverian court but will also feature seven of our most rare and magnificent State Beds. The exhibition will feature stunning portraiture and bedchamber furnishings of the time, as well as unusual bedroom artifacts, such as Charles II bedrail, a rare remnant of the bedchamber at the long-lost palace of Whitehall.

In addition, exclusive for groups, guided tours of Secrets of the Royal Bedchamber will be available for advanced bookings at £100 per group plus VAT for one and half hour tour (additional to admission). Maximum group size 25.

For general group admission you can pre book your tickets on 0844 482 7770 or alternatively pay on the day and with 15 or more people you can still get the group rate.

For further details of events taking place at Historic Royal Palaces visit www.hrp.org.uk