Weddings and Civil Partnerships at the Banqueting

“The Banqueting House at Whitehall was so crowded with fair ladies glittering with their rich clothes and richer jewels and with Lords and gentlemen of great quality, that there was scarce for the King and Queen to enter in.” 23 February 1633. From: B Whitelocke, Memorials of the English Affairs

3 The sheer magnificence of the Banqueting House – built for entertaining – has dazzled revellers and guests of the monarch since the early Something 17th century. Today, this architectural and artistic masterpiece remains as inspiring as ever. Its beauty and grand scale intensify the genius of Sir Peter Paul Rubens’ , and serve as reminders old… of the venue’s long and splendid history. As you gather among family and friends to celebrate and begin a new life together, the Banqueting House’s timeless majesty offers a powerful reminder of precious links to the past. Whether you’d like a spectacular wedding or an intimate reception, the Banqueting House guarantees first-class service and an unforgettable backdrop for your very special occasion.

4 5 Our full attention Stunning spaces You’re hiring an awe-inspiring Licensed for civil ceremonies, setting. But as our clients, you will both the magnificent Main also enjoy dedicated, personal (pp 6-7) and the beautiful service from an experienced Undercroft (pp 10-11) are available event manager. We will help you for afternoon and evening hire. realise your personal vision by We are happy to show you meeting with you regularly, and around both spaces – just call by introducing you to a range of us to arrange a visit. excellent suppliers. With intimate knowledge of this spectacular venue, we know how to create Picture perfect the enchanting atmosphere A banqueting hall with Rubens’s you and your guests will great masterpiece and perfect always remember. ‘double-cube’ proportions – influenced by classical of ancient Rome and 16th-century Italy – offer a glorious backdrop to your celebration, ideal for beautiful and memorable wedding photography. Your palace

Unforgettable, awaits by design When King James I wanted a sumptuous new banqueting house at Whitehall Palace, he turned to his talented Surveyor of the King’s Works, . Drawing on the harmonious principles of classical , Jones created a sensation in 1622 when his designs resulted in one of the earliest classical buildings ever seen in . The King immediately began hosting elaborate performances called ‘masques’ here, each more extravagant than the last. In 1636 King Charles I added Peter Paul Rubens’s magnificent ceiling paintings.

6 7 Capacity The space Features 400 for civil ceremony Specially created for entertaining – Rubens’ priceless ceiling Main 450 for reception in 1622, the Banqueting House paintings are breathtakingly 300 for wedding breakfast is truly a sight to behold. Your displayed within richly moulded (with dancing) families and guests arrive via and gilded framework the elegant entry hall, and follow – Vast face onto Whitehall Hall in the footsteps of kings and – Pinspot included in the queens, climbing the grand Main Hall staircase to the majesty of the – Meet and greet staff Main Hall. Here magnificent pillars – Pre- and post-wedding cleaning and glittering chandeliers will – Space will be arranged just as “Strange how a good draw guests’ gazes toward one you request for a ceremony, dinner and feasting of the world’s great masterpieces: dinner or reception reconciles everybody.” Sir Peter Paul Rubens’s glorious – Immaculate facilities include painted ceiling. easily accessible toilets , 9 November 1665 and

8 9 Sir Peter Paul Rubens wrote to James I’s agent, “I confess that I am, by natural instinct, better fitted to execute very large works than small curiosities”. From the moment Rubens’ masterful paintings were installed in the Banqueting House they have inspired revellers, dignitaries and all who gather beneath them.

10 11 “Since Bacchus, thou art father Capacity The space Features Of wines, to thee the rather 150 for civil ceremony Wonderfully atmospheric, the – Originally enjoyed as a drinking The We dedicate this Cellar 380 for pre-wedding breakfast Undercroft is where Stuart kings by King James I and his or pre-dinner reception once retreated from public life. party-loving courtiers Where now, thou art made Dweller” 250 for standing reception/ Today, this intimacy – once – A moving civil ceremony here can Dedication by playwright at Undercroft’s opening, 1623 party favoured by England’s monarchs be followed by a grand reception Undercroft 120 for wedding breakfast/ – makes it a special space for an in the magnificent Main Hall dinner unforgettable evening of dining, – Air cooled dancing and celebration. This – Candelabra evoke a charming, vaulted space will romantic mood radiate with good cheer and – Immaculate facilities include joyous bustle as your family and easily accessible toilets and friends gather to celebrate and cloakroom offer congratulations. – Adjacent to and catering facilities

12 13 All our best To the happy couple…

We would like to offer sincere congratulations on your engagement – and our very best wishes as you With its glorious Main Hall prepare to celebrate a defining moment in both and charming Undercroft, the your lives. architectural and artistic marvel With much to prepare in the coming months, we’re sure you know choosing a venue is one of that is the Banqueting House will your most important decisions. enthrall and delight your guests. If we can help in any way, then please call us. Our event specialists will answer any questions about weddings at the Banqueting House, and discuss how these special spaces could fit into your plans, with absolutely no obligation. You can also visit the palace and see the venue for yourself. We’d love to show you around. Wedding gifts We look forward to hearing from you, and wish If you are looking for bridal jewellery, including tiaras, you all the best during this happy time. groom and usher accessories, unusual favours, gifts for bridesmaids or gifts to add to your wedding list, Sincerely yours, may we suggest that you look to Historic Royal The Historic Royal Palaces events team Palaces for inspiration. Please contact us if you would like help in making the right choice. We pride ourselves in offering high Call us for more information about hiring quality products, unrivalled customer service and these magnificent spaces for your wedding. working with all our customers’ varied requirements T. 020 3166 6152 to provide the complete gift service. E. [email protected] Please visit our website www.historicroyalpalaces.com www.hrp.org.uk/hireavenue or contact us on 020 3166 6857 or Banqueting House [email protected] Whitehall, SW1A 2ER

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Square R o a of d Parliament SteersMcGillanEves Design SteersMcGillanEves 14 Call us to view Banqueting House’s spectacular wedding venues T. 020 3166 6152 E. [email protected] www.hrp.org.uk