Somerset House
WC2R 1LA London Greater London
Somerset House - a spectacular neo-classical building in the heart of London - King James I
King James’s wife (Anne of Denmark) resided at Somerset House.
It was Edward Seymour, who became the Duke of Somerset (when his nephew King Edward VI came to the throne) who began the building of it - but before it was completed, he was executed, and ownership of Somerset House passed to the Crown.
Oliver Cromwell’s body was laid in Somerset House, prior to his funeral. The House was also used by the wife of King Charles II - Catherine of Braganza and Queen Elizabeth I. The House was refurbished by Sir Christopher Wren in 1685.
Somerset House is situated between the Strand and the River Thames (not far from Waterloo Bridge, a 5-minute walk); it is a Grade I listed building, has an impressive courtyard and an artistic fountain with beautiful surroundings.
Nearest tube station is ‘Temple’ (Circle and District Lines), a 5-minute walk.
Open to the public most days - admission normally free apart from exhibitions and events.