Designed by Inigo Jones for King James I and completed in 1622, The Banqueting House is the only complete surviving building of Whitehall Palace, the sovereign’s principal residence from 1530 until 1698 when it was destroyed by fire. It was also the site of King Charles I execution in 1649.
Originally built for state occasions, plays and masques, the Banqueting House and Whitehall are both popular destinations on the London sightseeing trail – although it’s always worth checking opening hours as it is still one of the finest banqueting venues in the capital and often plays host to royal and Government functions, as well as society events.
If you’re London sightseeing with children, why not combine a visit to the Banqueting House with the Namco Station, a short walk over Hungerford Bridge or Westminster Bridge, or take the Thames Cruise with City Cruises – all these London tourist attractions are free with London Pass.
Related Articles:
Listing Details
- Address: The Banqueting House Whitehall London SW1A 2ER England
- Phone: (0)20 3166 6311
- Website: http://www.hrp.org.uk/BanquetingHouse
- Email: banquetinghouse@hrp.org.uk
- Get there by bus: 3, 11, 12, 24, 53, 87, 88 and 159.
- Get there by tube/train: Bakerloo, District, Circle, Northern Line, Jubilee
- Wheelchair access: Yes
-
Additional information:
Visitors with mobility needs
The Main Hall of the Banqueting House is accessible via a lift in an adjoining property, Monday - Friday only. The Banqueting House does not manage the adjoining property and therefore cannot always guarantee the use of the lift. Please call in advance to check availability - 020 3166 6155/6154/6152 - especially if you plan to visit on a Saturday, Sunday or are attending a function.
This entrance to the lift is 27” (approx. 68.58cm) and it is 30” (approx. 76.2cm) deep. Therefore, a portable or standard size wheelchair is required. There is also a ramp down to The Undercroft.
Visitors with visual or hearing difficulties
There is a Braille guide for the visually impaired and induction loops are available for those who need hearing assistance. Please ask for these services on arrival.
Travel information
Nearest stations:
Westminster - turn right out of the station, first right into Whitehall and walk along until you come to the Banqueting House which is approximately half way up on the right hand side.
Embankment – go out of the Embankment Entrance, turn right, cross Northumberland Avenue, turn right into Horse Guards Avenue, walk past the Ministry of Defence and the Banqueting House is approx 100 yards down on the corner of Horse Guards Avenue and Whitehall.
Charing Cross – proceed as for the train (see below).
By train
Charing Cross – turn left out of the station's main entrance, towards Trafalgar Square. From there walk down Whitehall for about 5 minutes and the Banqueting House is on the left.Free admission for carers
Admission for visitors with a disability is at the published rates but an accompanying carer is admitted free of charge.
Opening Times
- Monday 10.00-17.00
- Tuesday 10.00-17.00
- Wednesday 10.00-17.00
- Thursday 10.00-17.00
- Friday 10.00-17.00
- Saturday 10.00-17.00
- Sunday 10.00-17.00
-
-
-
-
-