Banqueting House
Whitehall, Westminster, London, Greater London, SW1A 2ER
Built in 1622, London’s Banqueting House was once part of the Palace of Whitehall, which was home to the English monarch for 168 years. The building is the last structure standing of the former complex, and it exemplifies the beginnings of neoclassical architecture. It also boasts a tumultuous history, including the execution of Charles I in 1649, which is interesting, considering that banquet houses are designed for entertaining.
The Basics
Absorb views of the grand exterior of the Banqueting House on a city walking tour, or book ahead to guarantee entry. Tread in the footsteps of historic ambassadors, such as Pocahontas, as you wander through the undercroft or glimpse Rubens’ iconic ceiling in the Main Hall. Convenient hop-on hop-off buses let you explore Banqueting House and beyond at your own pace, while discounted packages can help you visit several London landmarks in one visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
Visiting is a must for anyone interested in European history, art, or architecture.
Elevator access to the Main Hall is limited, so wheelchair users should call ahead to make accessibility arrangements.
Sign language interpreters are available the first Saturday morning of each month.
Booking ahead is recommended, as the site is sometimes closed for private functions.
Whitehall is home to a number of top attractions, so sightseeing tours can help you save time and money.
How to Get There
Westminster is ideal for walking excursions, with so many landmarks strewn across a relatively small area. Right in the middle of the action, Banqueting House is located on Whitehall, a 10-minute walk from the Embankment or Westminster Underground stations. Whitehall is also served by several local buses, as well as hop-on hop-off tours.
When to Get There
Banqueting House is open daily year-round, except for Dec. 24–26 and New Year’s Day. It is wise to arrange your visit in advance, as the building is sometimes booked for private functions. Whitehall is impressive at any time of year, but winter’s festive lights lend extra charm to the historic street.
Palaces of London
Banqueting House may be the last vestige of the Palace of Whitehall, but there are plenty more royal residences that are open to visitors in London. Whitehall’s Tudor contemporaries include nearby St. James’s Palace and Hampton Court Palace in Richmond, the site of Queen Jane Seymour’s death in childbirth.
Ways to explore
Absorb views of the grand exterior of the Banqueting House on a city walking tour, or book ahead to guarantee entry. Inside, you’ll tread in the footsteps of historic ambassadors (such as Pocahontas) as you wander through the Undercroft or glimpse Sir Peter Paul Rubens’ iconic ceiling in the Main Hall.
Convenient hop-on hop-off buses let you explore Banqueting House and beyond at your own pace, while discounted packages can help you visit several London landmarks in one visit.
Accessibility
The house is mostly accessible to wheelchair users via a lift and ramps, although the balcony is not accessible. There is an accessible restroom, but it is accessed via a ramp with no handrail. Carers receive free entry, and service dogs are welcome. British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters are available for some guided tours.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Camera (photography allowed in the Main Hall only), audio guide
What to wear
Comfortable shoes for walking on historic floors
Not allowed
Food and drink, large bags or backpacks, tripods, flash photography in certain areas, touching the ceiling or walls
Amenities
Gift shop, audio guides, guided tours, restrooms
Address
Triangulated with Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, let’s just say Banqueting House is in the thick of things. See it on a sightseeing tour or opt for public transit.
Driving
Banqueting House is in London’s Congestion Charge Zone and doesn’t have on-site parking. If you must drive, the nearest car park is Q-park Trafalgar, about a 5–10-minute walk away.
Public transportation
Take the Circle, District, or Jubilee lines to Westminster station or the Bakerloo, Circle, District, or Northern lines to Embankment. From either, it’s a 5-minute walk.
Best times to visit
Banqueting House is due to reopen in late 2025 following renovations. When open, come near opening or closing time to avoid peak crowds.
Best days to visit
Naturally, weekends tend to be busiest. Visit midweek for more elbow room.
Best months to visit
April to June and September to October typically offer pleasant weather and more moderate crowds. There’s no bad time to visit, though, as it’s an indoor attraction.
Special events
Check the house’s calendar, as there may be occasional evening lectures and concerts, holiday fun, and periodic historical reenactments once it reopens.
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