Book Banqueting House tickets & discover the royal masterpiece of Whitehall
Step inside Banqueting House in London and explore one of the most remarkable historic buildings in the capital.
Standing on Whitehall, this grand survivor of the lost Palace of Whitehall brings together royal drama, world-class art and spectacular architecture in one unforgettable visit.
- Admire Sir Peter Paul Rubens’ magnificent ceiling in its original setting
- Explore the Banqueting Hall, built in 1622 for lavish royal entertainments
- Discover the atmospheric Undercroft, once used by James I and VI for royal parties
- Uncover the dramatic story of Charles I’s execution outside Banqueting House
- Experience 400 years of history, art and architecture in the heart of London
Book online and get ready to step closer to one of Whitehall’s greatest stories on your visit to the Banqueting House!
Discover the Rubens ceiling, royal history and the last great survivor of Whitehall Palace
Banqueting House is the greatest surviving part of the lost Palace of Whitehall, once one of the most important royal palaces in England. Today, visitors can walk through a building shaped by celebration, power, conflict and restoration.
The star of the show is the breathtaking Rubens ceiling. Painted by Sir Peter Paul Rubens, this epic masterpiece still sits above the Banqueting Hall, giving visitors a rare chance to see one of the artist’s most important works in the place it was created for.
There’s more to discover beneath the surface too. Head into the Undercroft, the vaulted space once used by James I and VI as a royal drinking den, and imagine the parties, politics and private moments that took place below the grand hall.
Stand beneath the ceiling Charles I passed before his execution
Banqueting House is not just beautiful; it’s full of real-life drama. On 30th January 1649, Charles I passed beneath the Rubens ceiling before stepping outside to the scaffold where he was executed. It’s one of the most powerful stories in British royal history, and the building still holds that sense of theatre today.
From incredible art to political upheaval, Banqueting House gives visitors a fascinating look at the monarchy’s rise, fall and return. It’s a brilliant choice for history lovers, art fans, architecture enthusiasts and anyone looking for a meaningful London attraction away from the usual rush.
Book Banqueting House tickets today and discover a royal masterpiece right in the heart of Whitehall.