One of central London’s most iconic historic venues, Banqueting House, will reopen for events this October after a year-long closure to undergo significant improvements.

This sensitive and essential upgrade has enhanced the venue’s sustainability and accessibility while carefully preserving its extraordinary architectural heritage. The space has been simplified to allow the brilliant architecture and stunning Rubens ceiling to speak for itself.

Banqueting House, the last remaining part of Whitehall Palace, has witnessed dramatic moments in history, including the execution of King Charles I in 1649. It is home to the largest surviving in situ ceiling painted by Sir Peter Paul Rubens, known as the ‘Rubens’ ceiling. Installed in 1636 the painting depicts The Union of the Crowns, The Apotheosis of James I and The Peaceful Reign of James I. It is truly a unique masterpiece from the golden age of painting.

From October 2025, Banqueting House will once again be available for exclusive stunning private dinners, opulent receptions, galas, and various other celebrations, for up to 450 guests. This historic venue, located in the heart of the architecturally stunning City of Westminster provides a truly unforgettable experience.

Specially created for entertaining as part of Whitehall Palace in 1622, the Banqueting House astounded London society, and it still has the power to dazzle and impress today. A masterpiece of classical architecture designed by Inigo Jones for James I, Banqueting House was intended to look like a piece of ancient Rome transposed to Whitehall. Sadly in 1698, disaster hit the palace with most of it perishing to the fire. The Banqueting House is the last remaining piece of Whitehall Palace today.

This spectacular central London venue was built to entertain, and both spaces work elegantly in conjunction with each other: the intimate atmosphere of the Undercroft with vaulted ceilings and private alcoves perfectly complementing the grandeur of the Main Hall. With provisional bookings now available and site visits on request, this is a highly sought-after venue. Banqueting House is the ideal venue for clients who wish to host their events in the splendour of a historic royal palace and indulge their guests in rich and dramatic history. This quintessentially British venue is perfect for hosting their events.

The recent closure enabled Historic Royal Palaces to upgrade the buildings facilities and carry out essential improvement works. The restoration included a new sustainably sourced English Oak floor being laid to architecturally unite the space, and significantly improved temperature and humidity control to protect the historic ceiling while ensuring comfort for events all year round. More subtle lighting and blinds will enhance guests view of the stunning architecture without interfering with sight lines, and the surroundings have been simplified with the removal of additional props and decoration that were not original to the space. Most importantly, a discreet new lift will make the venue more inclusive than ever before with step-free access to the Banqueting Hall for the first time.

Laura Drake, Event Manager for Banqueting House said “We’re thrilled to welcome guests back to the Banqueting House. This project has been about preserving the splendour of the past while preparing for a more sustainable and accessible future. We can't wait to see this magnificent space be brought to life once again with stunning events and celebrations.”

Banqueting House is cared for by Historic Royal Palaces, an independent charity that cares for six historic sites in London and Northern Ireland. Funds raised from commercial events
at Banqueting House help the charity to give the palaces a future as bright as their past; researching, conserving and educating using the buildings and collections in their care.

Bookings are now open for this highly sought-after venue for events from October 2025 onwards, and interested parties are encouraged to make their enquiries to banquetinghouseevents@hrp.org.uk