Best known survivor of the banqueting house architectural genre
Originally the property of the Archbishops of York, the Banqueting House was used to provide entertainment for Charles I, and was later the scene of his execution. After the fire that destroyed Whitehall Palace in 1698, it was used as a chapel until 1890. From 1896 until 1962 the Banqueting House was occupied by the Royal United Services Institute and used as a museum.
Enjoy a wide range of daytime and evening events at the palace, including exhibitions, special activities, tours, talks and live performances. Many are included in the price of your ticket. Explore 'Palace People' for profiles, stories and little-known facts about some of England’s famous monarchs and characters associated with the Banqueting House.
Visit the 'Historic Hotspots' where dramatic events in the history of Banqueting House unfolded such as: The Masque: court entertainment, The execution of Charles I, and the Royal Maundy. Visit 'Palace Highlights' and discover why these are not to be missed at the Banqueting House: Banqueting House architecture, Charles I’s scaffold, Peter Paul Rubens's painted ceiling, and the Undercroft.
Opening times:
Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed on Sundays
Last admission at 4.15 p.m.
Please note: The Banqueting House often closes at short notice for functions and events, so please check the times before your visit by calling: +44 (0) 203 166 6154/5. Children under 16 free (ID Required and accompanied by an adult)
Location:
Whitehall House, 41 Whitehall, London SW1A 2BY (on the corner of Horse Guards Avenue and Whitehall)
Underground to station Westminster, Embankment or Charing Cross.
Ticket is valid for 1 year from date of purchase! Buy your ticket online and skip the line!