The Queen's Chapel, St James's Palace
A historic chapel of royal diplomacy and architectural innovation, nestled in the heart of London.
The Queen's Chapel, designed by Inigo Jones and built between 1623 and 1625, is a Grade I listed chapel in central London. Originally intended as a Catholic chapel for a Spanish Infanta, it later served French, Dutch, German, and Danish royal communities. Its Palladian architecture and historical significance make it a unique landmark, though it is not open to the public.
A brief summary to The Queen's Chapel
- Marlborough Rd, London, SW1A 1BG, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to appreciate the chapel's Palladian architecture and serene atmosphere.
- Note that the chapel is not open to the public, but its exterior and surroundings are worth exploring.
- Combine your visit with a walk around St James's Palace and Marlborough House for a deeper understanding of the area's royal history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From St James's Park Underground Station, walk approximately 10 minutes along Marlborough Road to reach The Queen's Chapel. The route is flat and accessible, with clear signage.
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Bus
Take bus routes 11, 24, or 148 to stop at St James's Palace, then walk 5 minutes along Marlborough Road to the chapel. Bus services run frequently throughout the day.
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Taxi
A taxi from central London to The Queen's Chapel takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The chapel is easily accessible by car, with limited street parking nearby.
The Queen's Chapel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Queen's Chapel
A Chapel of Royal Diplomacy
Nestled just off Marlborough Road, The Queen's Chapel stands as a testament to England's complex religious and political history. Commissioned during the reign of King James I, it was conceived as a Catholic chapel for the Infanta Maria Anna of Spain, whose proposed marriage to the future Charles I never materialized. Instead, the chapel became a sanctuary for Queen Henrietta Maria of France, Charles I's Catholic wife, and her retinue. Its construction was a bold move at a time when Catholic worship was restricted in England, and it was granted special dispensation to exist within the royal precincts.Architectural Innovation
The chapel is a pioneering example of Palladian architecture in England, designed by Inigo Jones, the country's first significant modern architect. Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, the building features a simple yet elegant exterior with gable ends and pediments, while the interior boasts a gilded, coffered ceiling and Corinthian columns. The chapel's design reflects Jones' commitment to classical principles, making it a landmark in the evolution of English architecture. Over the centuries, it has been refurbished by notable figures such as Christopher Wren, further enriching its architectural legacy.Shifting Religious Communities
After the Glorious Revolution of 1688, the chapel was stripped of its Catholic trappings and repurposed for Protestant use. It served Dutch, German, and Danish royal communities, reflecting the changing demographics of the British court. The chapel became known as the German Chapel and later the Danish Church, before reverting to its original name in the 20th century. Its role as a place of worship for various royal and diplomatic communities underscores its unique place in London's religious landscape.Modern Significance
Today, The Queen's Chapel is a Grade I listed building, recognized for its historical and architectural importance. It is part of the Chapel Royal, the British monarch's household religious establishment, and has been used for significant royal events, including the lying-in-state of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 2002. Despite its proximity to St James's Palace, the chapel is now physically separated from the palace by Marlborough Road, a result of urban development in the 19th century. Its serene presence continues to attract historians, architects, and those interested in the intersection of religion and royalty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. James's Palace
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Pickering Pl
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Republic of Texas Plaque
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Clarence House
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The Mall
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Charles De Gaulle Statue
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King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
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St James's Square
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Pall Mall
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3 Carlton House Terrace
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Beau Brummell Statue
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Sir Keith Park statue
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Duke of York Column
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Unmissable attractions to see
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
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Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
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Christie's London
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Spencer House
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Carlton Gardens
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Masons Yard
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White Cube Mason's Yard
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St James's Park
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Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
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The Red Lion, Mayfair
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Prestat Chocolates
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Canada Gate
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The Green Park
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Essential places to dine
Golden Lion
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Great British Restaurant
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Francatelli
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Quaglino's
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Wild Honey St James
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HIDE
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Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
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Kricket Soho
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The Pem
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Caxton Grill
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Mele e Pere
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Evelyn's Table
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Chez Antoinette Victoria
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Bantof
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
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Piccadilly Arcade
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Floris London
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Fortnum & Mason
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Jermyn St
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Princes Arcade
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Burlington Arcade
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Lillywhites
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28 The Royal Arcade
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
