Everything you need to know about visiting Banqueting House this summer
- 📍 Location: Banqueting House, Whitehall, Westminster, London SW1A 2ER, between Trafalgar Square and the Houses of Parliament.
- 🚇 Nearest Tube: Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee), approximately 5 minutes' walk.
- 📅 When: Open for a limited summer seasonuntil 20 September 2026.
- 🎟️ Price: Advance booking recommended – book your Banqueting House tickets.
- ⏱️ Experience duration: Allow around 45–60 minutes to explore the historic hall, interactive displays and Rubens' ceiling.
- 👥 Who is this for? Royal history enthusiasts, art lovers, architecture fans, families and anyone looking to discover one of London's hidden heritage gems.
- 👀 What to expect: Walk beneath the iconic Rubens’ ceiling in one of London’s most historic royal spaces. Explore interactive digital content and uncover stories of monarchy, revolution and restoration in the last complete survivor of the lost Palace of Whitehall.
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What is Banqueting House in Whitehall?
The Banqueting House in Whitehall, Westminster is one of London's most significant historic landmarks. Designed by Inigo Jones for King James I and completed in 1622, it formed part of the vast Palace of Whitehall, once the main residence of England's monarchs. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace, celebrated for its classical architecture and the magnificent Rubens ceiling that crowns its Great Hall.
What can you see and do at Banqueting House?
Step inside Banqueting House in Whitehall and uncover centuries of royal history. Alongside its magnificent architecture and world-famous artworks, you can speak with Palace Hosts and explore at your own pace, relaxing on comfortable beanbags and cushioned benches as you take in the grandeur of this iconic royal landmark.
Admire Rubens' spectacular ceiling
Look up at the building's greatest treasure, the spectacular ceiling created by Flemish artist Sir Peter Paul Rubens. Commissioned by King Charles I in 1630 and installed in 1636, the nine canvases celebrate the reign of his father, King James I through allegorical scenes exploring themes of peace, prosperity and royal power. Designed to symbolise his and his descendants' divine right to rule, it is also the only Rubens artwork still displayed in the original space for which it was created.
✨Top tip: The magnificent ceiling is best appreciated from the centre of the hall. Spend a few moments reclining on the seating provided to take in the intricate detail of Rubens' masterpiece.
Explore stories of royalty, revolution and restoration
Bring the story of Banqueting House to life with a range of digital experiences designed to enhance your visit. Immerse yourself in interactive content, listen to expert-led podcasts and curated playlists, and discover fascinating insights into courtly celebrations and pivotal moments from the past from knowledgeable Palace Hosts.
Discover the history of Banqueting House
From royal masques to the execution of Charles I
The Banqueting House was built to host extravagant court entertainments known as “masques”, combining theatre, music, dance and elaborate costumes, while also serving as a venue for royal ceremonies and diplomatic receptions.
However, it has also been at the heart of some of Britain's most dramatic historical moments. The most notable of these came on 30 January 1649, when King Charles I passed beneath the very ceiling he had commissioned before being executed on a scaffold outside Banqueting House after losing the English Civil War.
Spot a curious detail across the road at Horse Guards, a small black mark on the clock face at two o'clock, it is said to commemorate the time of Charles I's execution. Below the Banqueting House, a memorial bust marks the monarch's final journey from St James's Palace to the scaffold outside the building.
When the Royal Court moved to nearby St James's Palace in 1698, Horse Guards unexpectedly became the official entrance to the Court, a role it continues to fulfil today. Explore the Household Cavalry Museum at Horse Guards to discover more.
The last survivor of the Palace of Whitehall
As the only surviving building of the vast Palace of Whitehall, Banqueting House has undergone a remarkable transformation over the centuries. From royal chapel and museum to visitor attraction and events venue, this Grade I listed landmark has continually reinvented itself while remaining at the heart of British history.
What’s new at Banqueting House this summer?
Following a programme of improvement works, visitors can now benefit from upgraded facilities, including a new passenger lift providing step-free access to the Banqueting Hall. These enhancements make the building more accessible to all, while brand new displays and interactive digital content provide engaging ways to discover its history.
Plan your visit to Banqueting House
Book your Banqueting House tickets and get ready to explore one of London's hidden royal gems. Adult tickets start from £10, under-16s go free when accompanied by an adult, and concession tickets are available.
Banqueting House FAQs
When did Banqueting House reopen?
The Banqueting House reopened on 1 August 2026 offering a rare opportunity to explore one of London's best-kept secrets. This historic landmark now provides visitors with enhanced facilities, new digital experiences and improved accessibility features, including step-free access to the Banqueting Hall.
How much are Banqueting House tickets?
Tickets are £10 for adults, with free entry for under-16s accompanied by an adult. Concession tickets are also available, making it an affordable way to explore one of London's royal landmarks.
Where is Banqueting House in Whitehall?
Find Banqueting House on Whitehall in Westminster, close to Trafalgar Square, Horse Guards Parade, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. It is the only surviving building of the former Palace of Whitehall. It is the perfect location for sightseeing, surrounded by royal landmarks, historic buildings and cultural attractions.
What is the Banqueting House ceiling?
Admire the magnificent Rubens ceiling, a masterpiece painted by Sir Peter Paul Rubens in the 1630s. The nine ceiling paintings celebrate the reign and achievements of King James I.
Is Banqueting House accessible?
Enjoy improved accessibility throughout your visit, including a new passenger lift providing step-free access to the Banqueting Hall.