Banqueting House

Up to 450
Top End

About Banqueting House

Banqueting House will reopen for events in October 2025, following a period of essential re-servicing, conservation, and maintenance. Provisional dates can now be held, and site visits will be available soon. This spectacular palace will once again be available to host events, now enhanced with improved accessibility thanks to a new lift and greater sustainability features like air source heat pumps.

Renowned as one of the most breathtaking venues in London, Banqueting House is one of the few surviving buildings of the lost royal Palace of Whitehall, and the Main Hall has been the place for events, feasting and revelry since 1622. Its soaring neo-classical columns and magnificent ceiling (painted by Sir Peter Paul Rubens) offer a magisterial setting for unforgettable dinners and receptions. The awe-inspiring interiors can accommodate up to 400 guests theatre style or 280 guests cabaret style, making it a highly sought-after venue for a wide range of events.

Originally, the exteriors were a honey-coloured and pinkish stone however, after large-scale restorations, the building appears as a monochrome greyish-white. Inside, you can still feel the spirit of courtiers who partied beneath the magnificent painted ceiling of the Main Hall. This space is an awe-inspiring sight when set for a candle-lit dinner, making it a rather special location for awards dinners, galas, and balls.

Downstairs, there’s also a space for a separate drinks reception for you to welcome your guests, but you’ll find grand archways and snug corners in The Undercroft. This area was originally designed as a drinking den for James I and his courtiers to escape the public eye. It is now a charming space with plenty of versatility for you to create anything from an intimate dinner to a large party.

The history and grandeur of such a building makes it a great backdrop for any event. Alongside such a breath-taking venue, the events team will be on hand to make every wish come true and sculpt the perfect evening. With approved suppliers of caterers, florists, production specialists and entertainers; Banqueting House is fully prepared to create an unforgettable experience.

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Venue Facilities
Exclusive Hire

Good to know

Delegates/Guests
Up to 450
Venue Hire Cost
Top End
Event Type
Meeting rooms
Venue Type
Institutions, Museum art gallery
Venue Style
Historic, Light and Bright, Modern, Traditional

Banqueting House Rooms

Main Hall

Main Hall

400
Meeting
450
Standing
380
Banquet

The Main Hall provides a breathtaking space that is perfect for dinners and receptions. With Ruben's painted ceilings, huge columns and Baroque design; guests will be wowed at this unforgettable venue.

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Undercroft

Undercroft

120
Meeting
380
Standing
120
Banquet

The Undercroft is a cosier option. Featuring grand archways and snug corners, the Undercroft is no less charming than the Main Hall and would make the perfect surroundings for an intimate dinner or cocktail party.

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Location

Whitehall, St. James's, London, SW1A 2ER

020 3166 6152

Website


FAQs

When can I hire the venue from?

Standard venue hire is from 4:30pm however it is available from 1pm.

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What is the maximum capacity?

The Main Hall can host up to 500 guests

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How much does exclusive hire cost?

Exclusive hire starts from £14,500 + VAT

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When will the venue reopen?

Following essential conservation and maintenance, the venue will reopen for events from October 2025. Provisional dates can now be held.

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