The inspiration for the Pennethorne’s Bar derived from architect Sir James Pennethorne’s journey across Europe in the 19th century. Pennethorne’s at Somerset House serve fine food and drinks inspired by Pennethorne’s European adventures across France, Italy and beyond, with a little twist of modern English culture.

Sir James Pennethorne made his famous Grand Tour around Europe in the 19th century, with destinations including France, Italy and Spain. The Grand Tour was considered to be a scholar’s pilgrimage, a journey where they could acquire a range of cultural sculptures, paintings, artefacts and culinary delights. Pennethorne’s Grand Tour took place from 6th November 1824 to 1st November 1825 where he visited Paris, Parma, Modena, Bologna, Rome, Siena, Florence, Pisa and Genoa.

The flavours from these regions are embedded in the food with an English twist, which match perfectly with their selection of English and French wines.