Albert Memorial: Under and Over Experience
Key information
Go behind the railings...
In our exclusive Albert Memorial Under and Over experience you will delve deeper into the history and stories of this incredible monument to Albert, Prince Consort Queen Victoria’s beloved husband.
The experience will be divided into four parts:
- An exclusive experience underneath the Albert Memorial, the under croft, an area seldom opened to the public
- Learn about the Albert Memorial from outside the railings, what the four corners of the memorial represent and how to interpret the top of the memorial
- A close up behind the fence experience of the canopy, Prince Albert statue and the Parnassus frieze
- We will finish up with tea, coffee and a cake/slice while visiting the site of the Great Exhibition of 1851, one of Prince Albert’s greatest achievements – with the spectacular building that housed it brought to life using Augmented Reality.
-
Kensington Gardens -
Before you book, some important practicalities to be aware of:
- Due to the nature of the under croft and the steep steps up to the Parnassus frieze, this experience is not accessible to wheelchair users or to anyone with reduced mobility. Access to the under croft is via a narrow, short, steep flight of steps with restricted headroom, then reaching an entrance tunnel and the under croft itself. The floor is rough and uneven (rubble and stone), so stout non slip shoes that cover the toes are necessary. Additional mandatory safety equipment will be provided, such as a hard hat, torch and hi viz to enter. There is also a marked change in atmosphere so if you have breathing difficulties please be aware and bring medication if required.
- The Albert Memorial is a Grade 1 listed building, the highest listing that can be bestowed upon a building in England and indicating that it is of exceptional interest. This listing ensures the preservation of the site for future generations to enjoy but it does prevent us from undertaking certain measures to improve access for all i.e. the installation of a lift.
- This experience is designed for adult attendees, over 18 years of age. Please note you are unable to bring dogs due to the special character of the monument. For more information contact Public Programmes on 0300 061 2255 or email publicprogrammes@royalparks.org.uk.