Somerset House

Somerset House offers a range of exhibitions and displays which can form the backdrop to an event.

A Thames-side landmark that overlooks the South Bank and the Strand, historic Somerset House's architecture and exhibition programme make it an inspiring venue. Somerset House was originally occupied by a medieval house rebuilt as a palace by ‘Protector Somerset’ Edward Seymour. After his fall and execution, the palace became a royal palace of James I who hosted many debauched parties here. In 1775, William Chambers was commissioned to salvage the site from disrepair and completed the current building in 1801.

The renaissance parts of the interior have been restored to their full glory and newer spaces modernised with contemporary additions. Grey tones on doors and within marble flooring complement ornate white cornicing around doorframes. Massive windows flood rooms with natural light.

Somerset House offers a range of exhibitions and displays which can form the backdrop to an event and, like the building itself, range in character from classical to contemporary. With ten different venues, conferences, receptions, product launches, fashion shows, dinners, concerts and teambuilding exercises are easily accommodated in the venues’ variety of spaces.

Portico Rooms - These spaces feature neutral décor and wooden flooring along with contemporary works of art on the walls. This is a collection of four rooms with the main space featuring two balconies, one overlooking The Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court, the other the River Thames.

River Terrace - One of the most contemporary and exclusive spaces on offer, with the options of alfresco entertaining in the summer or in a bespoke marquee in the winter.

The Courtauld Gallery - This gallery is one of the finest small museums in the world and features masterpieces in its superb location overlooking the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court.

The Hermitage Rooms - This is the lost sister wing to the eponymous museum in St Petersburg. The association is reflected in the Russian feel of the décor: painted ceilings, ‘oil-lamp’ lights, parquet flooring and red walls add exotic glamour. The gallery shows bi-annual exhibitions.

The Fountain Court - The courtyard has been repaved in granite to the original design and can accommodate a large or small marquee. Take in a special tour of the ruins of the Tudor palace and dead house beneath the courtyard canopy.

The Navy Board Rooms - This is where Nelson would have received his orders during the days of the Navy Board. Refurbished in a classic-meets-modern style with original fireplaces, heritage paints blend, with varnished wooden floors and doors and loads of natural light. Features include the ornate stone Nelson Stairs and the potential to combine their use with the Portico Rooms or Seamen’s Hall, which offers generous space and spectacular views.

Event Types

Awards Ceremony, Charity Event, Concert, Conference, Corporate Hospitality, Dinner.