The Banqueting House Whitehall

One of London's hidden treasures in the heart of historic Whitehall, the Banqueting House is renowned for its art, architecture and intriguing history.

The Banqueting House is all that remains of Whitehall Palace, the sovereign's principal residence from 1530 until 1698 when it was destroyed by fire. Renowned for its architecture and painting, the building is also famous for being the scene of Charles I's execution.

The magnificent ceiling paintings in the Banqueting House were commissioned by James I's son, Charles I, to celebrate his father's life and wise government. They were painted by Sir Peter Paul Rubens and installed in the hall in 1636. The three main canvasses depict The Union of the Crowns, The Apotheosis of James I and The Peaceful Reign of James I.