Hampton Court Palace Festival 2008

Supported by the Athenaeum as the official festival hotel

 

The annual Hampton Court Palace Festival has grown over 16 years into an eclectic series of powerhouse performances, with appearances by some of the greatest musical legends of our time.

The combination of warm summer nights, picnics in the 17th Century Gardens and some of the world's leading musicians performing in the Palace courtyard makes the Hampton Court Palace Festival a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

This year's line-up brings a number of new artists including Rufus Wainwright, who is regarded as one of the best singer-songwriters of his generation; legendary jazz performers Dame Cleo Laine and Sir John Dankworth, performing with acclaimed American jazz artist Curtis Stigers; Ray Davies, frontman of the legendary British rock band the Kinks; and the BBC Classical Star winner, Sophie Cashell.

The Festival also includes performances from Katherine Jenkins, Jools Holland, Buena Vista Social Club ™, Van Morrison, Michael Ball and Nicola Benedetti.

The great performances are not confined to the stage. Gordon Ramsay, one of the finest chefs of our time, will create an exclusive menu in association with Absolute Taste for Festival Hospitality. Guests will dine in the Palace's elegant State Apartments, while those who prefer to dine 'al fresco' can enjoy a delicious Carluccio's picnic in the magnificent gardens of the Palace's East Front.