Somerset House

Somerset House is a large Renaissance building located on the banks of the River Thames opposite the National Theatre, in the district the London Borough of Westminster.

It consists of a central body and two Victorian wings inspired by the buildings which belong to Palladian architecture, such as the Palace of Whitehall designed by Inigo Jones. Somerset House was built by William Chambers between 1776 and 1796. It housed the government offices, the offices of the scientific societies and the Naval Office. Previously the building served as the residence of the British royal family. During the reign of James I and Anne of Denmark it was even renamed "Denmark House". Located inside the building there are the so-called "Fine Rooms", which are known for their stucco ceilings.

Today, thanks to a huge investment in the building, Somerset House has become a complex of art museums, restaurants and cafes. Two most important museums found there are the Courtauld Institute of Art and the Gilbert Collection of Decorative Arts.

In winter, to the delight of children, the courtyard of the building is transformed into an ice rink. Also, throughout the year it is used as a concert venue.

Source of description: planerGO

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Neighbourhood Westminster (LONDON)
Price definition of price normal : 6.00 child : 0.00 (age <7) youth : 0.00 (age 7<) student : 0.00 (age <26) retired : 0.00 (age 65<)
Geographical coordinates 51.5106886, -0.1183206
Address WC2R 1 City of London, Strand
Construction dates 1776 - 1796
More information official website

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