Designed by Inigo Jones for King James I and completed in 1622, The Banqueting House is the only complete surviving building of Whitehall Palace, the sovereign’s principal residence from 1530 until 1698 when it was destroyed by fire. It was also the site of King Charles I execution in 1649.

Originally built for state occasions, plays and masques, the Banqueting House and Whitehall are both popular destinations on the London sightseeing trail – although it’s always worth checking opening hours as it is still one of the finest banqueting venues in the capital and often plays host to royal and Government functions, as well as society events.