The Banqueting House, London

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The Banqueting House is a historical architecture in London. It is the only surviving part of the Palace of Whitehall which marks the English architectural transformation to neo-classical style. It was built as a place for royal The Banqueting HouseThe Banqueting Houseceremonies and receptions as well as performances of masques.

The Banqueting House was designed by Inigo Jones and started to build in 1619. Over £15,000 later, the building was completed in 1622. Due to its historical and architectural values, the Banqueting House is listed as Grade I building and preserved under Historic Royal Palaces, and independent charity which receives no funding from any governmental bodies.

History of the Banqueting House

The Banqueting House we know today was once part of the Palace of Whitehall, a creation of King Henry VIII which was an expansion of an earlier mansion of Cardinal Wolsey, York Place. At that time, though, Henry VIII preferred to have a banquet in the gardens, therefore eliminating any banqueting house design. A banqueting house was then added by James I but quickly destroyed by fire not long after 1619 New Year’s festivities.

A new banqueting house was then built. Most of its construction work was overseen by a Devonshire mason by the name Nicholas Stone. This is the banqueting house that remains until now. As the result of Inigo Jones’ Palladio architecture studying in Italy, the Banqueting House has the mix of Renaissance style and English Jacobean architecture. There are three floors in the building. The ground floor is used for store rooms with small windows. The above floor is a double-height banqueting hall which creates an illusion of two floors from outside.

In 1698, a fire destroyed the Tudor Palace and left only the Banqueting House. A new palace was proposed with Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor as its designers. However, the plan never was never worked on.

Inside the Banqueting House London are beautiful, you can see painting on the ceiling, The Apotheosis of James I, the central panel of the ceiling. This picture show that Main Hall an unforgettable location for any high-profile or important event. Now can be use for Receptions, Dinners, Private and Corporate Parties which Capacities Main Hall up to 500 Reception, 400 Theatre, 380 Dinner, 300 Dinner Dance.

Visiting the Banqueting House

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday at 10.00 to 17.00 (last admission at 16.15)

The Banqueting House is often close at a short notice due to some social events of government functions held. It is recommended to check its availability prior to your visit.

Banqueting House Address