Prince Henry's Room, Historic Jacobean Gem on Fleet Street
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Prince Henry's Room at 17 Fleet Street is a rare surviving Jacobean timber-framed building in the City of London, dating back to 1610. Once a tavern named The Prince's Arms, it features a richly decorated plaster ceiling with the Prince of Wales's feathers and original oak panelling. Though closed to the public, its exquisite façade and historical significance as a pre-Great Fire survivor remain captivating.
A brief summary to Prince Henry's Room
- 17 Fleet St, London, Temple, EC4Y 1AA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Though the interior is closed to the public, admire the beautifully restored 17th-century façade and timber-framed gateway from Fleet Street.
- Look up to see the intricately decorated plaster ceiling featuring the Prince of Wales's feathers and initials 'PH' when occasional public openings occur.
- Explore the surrounding Temple area to appreciate the legal and journalistic history that frames Prince Henry's Room.
- Visit during special heritage open days when access inside the building may be permitted for events or tours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central or District Line to Temple Station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to 17 Fleet Street. The station is well connected but can be busy during peak hours. Ticket prices range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on time and zone.
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Bus
Several bus routes including 11, 15, 23, 26, and 76 stop near Fleet Street. Travel time varies from 15-30 minutes from central London locations. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening or weekend service. A single fare costs £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Prince Henry's Room offers a pleasant experience through historic Temple and Fleet Street districts. Expect 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for most mobility levels.
Prince Henry's Room location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Prince Henry's Room
A Legacy Rooted in Medieval London
Prince Henry's Room stands on a site with a history extending to the 12th century, originally part of the Knights Templar estate. After the dissolution of the Templars, the property passed to the Knights Hospitallers. The current building was erected in 1610, coinciding with Prince Henry, son of King James I, being named Prince of Wales. The site has witnessed centuries of London's evolution, surviving the catastrophic Great Fire of 1666 that devastated much of the surrounding area.Architectural and Artistic Treasures
This Grade II* listed building is celebrated for its rare Jacobean timber-framed structure, one of the few remaining in the City of London. The first-floor room showcases an elaborate plaster ceiling adorned with the Prince of Wales's feathers and the initials "PH". Original oak panelling lines one wall, complemented by Georgian panelling elsewhere. The leaded glass windows bear coats of arms and badges, offering glimpses of craftsmanship from the early 17th century.From Tavern to Waxworks and Beyond
Originally a tavern known as The Prince's Arms, the building was also called the Fountain Inn by the mid-17th century, frequented by notable figures like Samuel Pepys, who recorded visits in his diary. In the 18th and 19th centuries, part of the premises housed Mrs Salmon's Waxworks, a popular attraction featuring historical figures and curiosities. The building later served various commercial purposes, including a hairdresser's, before being preserved by the City of London Corporation in the early 20th century.Preservation and Modern Use
Though once open as a museum dedicated to Samuel Pepys, the room has been closed to the public for years and now serves as office space for the Delegation of the Catalonian Regional Government to the UK. The building's façade, restored to its original 17th-century appearance after being uncovered beneath layers of paint, remains a striking feature on Fleet Street and a tangible link to London's rich past.Historical Myths and Cultural Significance
Legends surrounding Prince Henry's Room include claims it was a council chamber for the Duchy of Cornwall or the palace of Henry VIII and Cardinal Wolsey, though these are unsubstantiated. The building's enduring presence and distinctive Jacobean features, however, make it an important cultural landmark, reflecting London's legal and social history in the Temple area.Experiencing the Atmosphere Today
Visitors can admire the building’s timber-framed gateway and Jacobean façade from the street, imagining the lively tavern and waxworks exhibitions of centuries past. The intricate plaster ceiling and wood panelling evoke a bygone era, while the location’s proximity to Fleet Street’s journalistic and legal heritage adds layers of historical resonance to this quietly remarkable site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prince Henry's Room
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Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
