Banqueting House, Whitehall: London's Last Tudor Palace Jewel
Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
Banqueting House in Whitehall, London, is the sole surviving fragment of the vast 16th-century Palace of Whitehall. Designed by Inigo Jones and completed in 1622, it showcases England’s first Palladian architectural style and houses the magnificent Rubens ceiling. The site is historically significant as the execution place of King Charles I and a centre for royal ceremonies, masques, and court life, reflecting centuries of British monarchy drama and artistry.
A brief summary to Banqueting House
- Whitehall, London, SW1A 2ER, GB
- +443333206000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Undercroft beneath the Banqueting Hall to see the private drinking den of King James I and learn about the lavish court masques.
- Admire the Rubens ceiling closely, noting the nine paintings that depict key moments of King James I’s reign.
- Reflect on the historical significance of the balcony where King Charles I was executed in 1649.
- Check for any special events or commemorative services held on the anniversary of Charles I’s execution.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the building has some steps, but it offers ramps and partial wheelchair access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Westminster Station, approximately a 5-minute walk from Banqueting House. The station is served by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines, with frequent trains running throughout the day. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Banqueting House, including the Horse Guards Parade stop directly outside. Bus journeys from central London take 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. Single fares are around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central London, walking to Banqueting House is a pleasant option, taking 10–20 minutes from Trafalgar Square or the Embankment area. The route is mostly flat and accessible, with pedestrian crossings and paved sidewalks.
Banqueting House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Banqueting House
The Architectural Marvel of Early Stuart England
The Banqueting House stands as a singular architectural masterpiece designed by Inigo Jones, completed between 1619 and 1622. It was the first building in England to embody the Palladian style, inspired by classical Roman and Renaissance principles Jones encountered during his travels in Europe. The building’s grand hall, raised on a vaulted basement, was conceived as a magnificent setting for royal state occasions, receptions, and entertainments. Its clean classical lines, large windows, and balanced proportions marked a revolutionary break from Tudor styles, influencing English architecture for generations.Artistic Splendor: The Rubens Ceiling
The Banqueting House’s interior is dominated by the extraordinary ceiling painted by Peter Paul Rubens between 1629 and 1630. This is the only surviving in-situ ceiling by Rubens and features nine dramatic canvases celebrating the reign of King James I, including allegorical scenes such as The Union of the Crowns and The Apotheosis of James I. The ceiling’s vivid colors and dynamic compositions were designed to awe visitors and glorify the Stuart monarchy, making it one of the most important works of Baroque art in Britain.Royal Ceremonies and the King’s Evil
The Banqueting House was not only a venue for lavish entertainments but also a stage for royal rituals. Monarchs from James I to Queen Anne performed the mystical ceremony of touching for the King’s Evil, a scrofula skin disease believed to be cured by the monarch’s touch. This ritual underscored the divine right of kings and the sacred nature of monarchy. The building also hosted masques—elaborate court performances combining dance, theatre, and music—reflecting the cultural vibrancy of the Stuart court.Site of a Historic Execution
On 30 January 1649, the Banqueting House’s balcony became the grim stage for the execution of King Charles I, the only English monarch to be tried and executed for treason. The scaffold was erected outside the building, beneath the Rubens ceiling that ironically celebrated his father’s reign. This event marked a pivotal moment in British history, symbolizing the conflict between monarchy and Parliament. The execution is commemorated annually with a service inside the Banqueting House.Survival Through Fire and Time
The Banqueting House is the sole survivor of the once vast Palace of Whitehall, which was largely destroyed by fire in 1698. Thanks to the efforts of Sir Christopher Wren, who prioritized its preservation, the building escaped destruction. Over the centuries, it has served various roles, including a chapel and a military museum. Today, managed by Historic Royal Palaces, it remains a treasured monument to England’s royal past and architectural innovation.Visitor Experience and Legacy
Visitors to the Banqueting House can admire the artistry of Rubens’ ceiling and explore the undercroft, originally designed as a private drinking den for King James I. The site offers a profound connection to the grandeur, drama, and tragedy of the British monarchy. Though temporarily closed for conservation, it continues to be a venue for private events and weddings, preserving its historic role as a place of celebration and ceremony.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dover House
0.1 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.1 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
The Women of World War II
0.1 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
10 Downing Street
0.2 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
10 Downing St
0.2 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Chindit Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
The Cenotaph
0.2 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
16-18 Whitehall
0.2 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Guards Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Old Admiralty Building
0.3 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
King Charles Street Arch
0.3 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
King Charles Street
0.3 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
Captain James Cook
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Unmissable attractions to see
Horse Guards Parade
0.1 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
The Household Cavalry Museum
0.1 km
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
Victoria Embankment Gardens: Whitehall Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful riverside garden in central London blending historic monuments, vibrant blooms, and tranquil green spaces along the Thames.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.2 km
Experience the best of London's nightlife with laughter and drinks at The Boat Show Comedy Club, set in the unique Tattershall Castle.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.3 km
A powerful bronze and granite tribute on London’s Victoria Embankment honoring the heroic RAF pilots of the 1940 Battle of Britain.
The Ghost Bus Tours
0.3 km
Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
Embankment Pl
0.3 km
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.3 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Grand Building
0.4 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
Churchill War Rooms
0.4 km
Britain's secret wartime headquarters where Churchill directed the fight against Nazi tyranny from underground bunkers beneath Westminster.
Westminster Pier
0.4 km
A vibrant river gateway beside iconic London landmarks, Westminster Pier invites you to explore the Thames and historic city sights from the water.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.4 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.4 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
Parliament Sq
0.4 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.2 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
0.3 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.3 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Bustronome London
0.5 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Wild Honey St James
0.5 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
wagamama southbank
0.6 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
OKAN South Bank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Strada Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Troia Southbank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.7 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.7 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Archduke
0.7 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.7 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
J Sheekey
0.7 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Rules
0.7 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.4 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Gifts of London
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.5 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.5 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.5 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Browns of London
0.6 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.6 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.6 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.7 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.7 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Unique Britain
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
M&M'S London
0.8 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Floral Street
0.8 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Spy Bar
0.1 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
0.2 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.3 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Le Champagne Bar
0.5 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Westminster Arms
0.5 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.6 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Two Chairmen
0.6 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.6 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.6 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.6 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Blind Spot London
0.7 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.7 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.7 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Heaven
0.4 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
0.4 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Cirque Du Soul
0.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Tiger Tiger London
0.7 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Luxe Club
0.8 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Penthouse London
0.8 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
0.8 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Scotch of St James
0.8 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.9 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Ivy Club
0.9 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Classic
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
