Banqueting House
Selected Property
Banqueting House Summary
- Address: Whitehall , London, SW1A 2ER (Map)
- Tel: +44 (0)870 751 5178
- Owner: Historic Royal Palaces
- Administrator: Historic Royal Palaces
- Website: Go to the Banqueting House website
Banqueting House Description
Step inside the Banqueting House and walk in the footsteps of kings, be amazed by this revolutionary building, the only surviving part of the great palace of Whitehall. Created in 1622 by Inigo Jones, it was intended for the splendour and exuberance of court masques, but is probably most famous for one real life drama: the execution of Charles I, which took place here in 1649 to the ‘dismal, universal groan’ of the crowd.
The Rubens ceiling - Peter Paul Rubens was paid £3,000 and given a heavy gold chain for his work on the Banqueting House ceiling, which is equivalent to a £250,000 today. The breath-taking canvases have survived flood, fire and war and it is nothing short of miraculous that you can still enjoy them in their original setting, just as kings and courtiers have done for the past four hundred years.
Historic ceremonies - Throughout its history the Banqueting House has played host to parliamentary receptions, investitures and ennoblements. It was perhaps the ultimate irony that on 30th January, 1649 Charles I passed beneath Rubens’s great painting, which he had commissioned to glorify the nature of supreme monarchy, only to step onto a scaffold and be the only king ever to suffer execution at the hands of the republican new order.
It was no coincidence that his son Charles II returned to the same place to be offered the throne in 1660, when the monarchy was restored.
Architectural masterpiece - inspired by the Italian Renaissance Palladian style, the Banqueting House was the first major classical building to be completed in England. Marvel at the perfectly balanced proportions of the main hall, with its large windows and soaring columns calculated in accordance with the Roman idea of perfection.
The Undercroft - during your visit explore the Undercroft, originally designed as a drinking den for James I and a place where he could escape the rigors of public life. The King would come here to savour a glass of wine from his extensive cellars, or simply enjoy some private time with his favourite courtiers.
Concerts - relax and enjoy one of their spectacular concerts featuring some of the most famous classical musicians of our time. A programme of concerts run throughout the year. For full details of their musical programme or visiting the Banqueting House, go to their Website.
Hospitality
From the days of Henry VIII through to the late 17th century, Whitehall Palace was the sovereign’s principal residence and has hosted many prestigious events. Today the grandeur of the main hall creates a glittering backdrop for any occasion. The sweeping staircase leads up to this fabulous room allowing guests to make a dramatic entrance, whilst the magnificent ceiling painting by Rubens will provide a talking point all evening.
A flexible venue, this beautiful room is perfect for drinks receptions, formal dining, corporate conferences and spectacular fashion shows. Visit their Website for further information on entertaining there.
Opening Times - 2012
- Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm (last admission 4.10 pm
Closed:
- Good Friday & All Bank Holidays
- 24th December - 1st January
- May close at short notice for Government functions - please call to check before making a long journey
Admission Prices - 2012
- Adult - £5.00
- Child - Free
- Concessions - £4.00
Groups (15+):
- Adult - £4.50
- Child - Free
- Concessions - £3.60
To buy Tickets & Money Saving Passes - Valid for two years from the date of purchase, allowing visitors to organise their own itineraries - Click Here.
- Four Palace Pass: includes admission to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and gardens, Kensington Palace and Banqueting House.
- Three Palace Pass: includes admission to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and gardens and Kensington Palace.
- Central London Pass: includes admission to the Tower of London, Kensington Palace and the Banqueting House.
How to get there:
- Underground: Westminster station or Embankment station
- Mainline stations: Charing Cross
- Bus: Nos 3, 11, 12, 24, 53, 77A, 88 and 159
Information line: +44 (0)870 751 5178
Images © Historic Royal Palaces and Candice Caster
Further information including opening times and pricesImage Gallery
Your Reviews of Banqueting House
Ed Christ (31 July 2011)
Visited the Banqueting House last August and was truly pleasantly surprised. A rare gem - the Rubens ceiling was amazing. My wife and I spent a very relaxing and enjoying time soaking in the atmosphere.
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Additional Info for Banqueting House
Open All Year- Education
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