Spencer House is located close by to St James's palace in central London. The historic house is admired for its architecture and style and is the only 18th century private palace to survive intact in the city. The House was built for the first Earl Spencer, a relative of Diana, Princess of Wales. Over the years the house has been the Spencer family home and has been subject to restoration and renovation work to help bring the house back to its former grand state. Visitors can take a tour of the house and see a range of historical rooms, architecture and artefacts that are part of this attractive historic house.
Attractions
Spencer House is located close to a number of Royal Palaces that include Buckingham Palace, Palace of Westminster and St James's Palace. Whilst it is not a royal palace it has been described as the most impressive private palace in London.
The house dates back to the 18th century and when it was built it was seen as a fine example of neo classical. The House was built as not only a home to live in but a place for entertainment and pleasure, the state rooms were built as a perfect place in which a range of entertainment could be carried out in splendid surroundings.
The State Rooms were used for any occasions including family gatherings, parties and receptions. The first Earl Spencer and his wife were active and well known figures in high society and the social scene and the house played host to lavish entertainment. Over the years there have been additions, alterations and redecoration to the house and its design.
The Spencer family lived at the House until 1895, after which the house was let out to tenants, some well known such as the Duke of Marlborough and his wife. In 1910 the Spencer family returned to the house and restored the building once more only to move away shortly afterwards. The house was let out once more and the family moved to Althorp.
The House has been subject to a long programme of painstaking restoration and has been restored to its former splendour with great attention to detail in recreating the appearance of the rooms, architectural details and design and the furniture design. Currently the House is used for a range of purposes, there are some offices and it is used as an entertainment venue where the historic state rooms can be used.
The State Rooms are known for the ornate decoration and design with a range of paintings, furniture and sculpture used in them. The Dining Room is one of the most prominent rooms in the house and features intricate design on the ceiling along with a large dining table and has been restored to its former glory. The Ante Room was formally known as the Little Eating Parlour, it was formerly used by the Spencer family as their private dining room.
How to Get There
The house can be accessed by both car and public transport:
By Car:
The house is located opposite St James Park in central London. From the M4 continue along the A4 until Piccadilly, Green Park is on your right and the house located opposite.
The house is located within the London Congestion Charge Zone. Visitors need to factor in the cost of this when visiting by car during the times the charge is applicable. The closest car parks are located on Carrington Street and Park Lane, both walking from the house. There are also metered street parking bays on some of the roads close by. Drivers should be aware of the steep car parking charges and street parking fees in central London that start at approx £4 per hour.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is SW1A 1NR.
By Train:
London Victoria and Charing Cross Stations are both within a 15 minute walk of the house. There are also Underground connections at both stations to get to Green Park station close by to the House.
By Underground:
The closest Underground (Tube) station is at Green Park, a few minutes walk from the House, Green Park is on the Piccadilly Line. There are other Underground stations close by including Piccadilly Circus, St James's Park, Hyde Park Corner and Victoria, all are within 15 minutes walk of the House.
By Bus:
There are various local bus services that service the area. The route numbers include 8 and 38 from Victoria Station to Green Park.
Contact Details
Spencer House
27 St James's Place
London
SW1A 1NR
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7514 1958
Website: Spencer House
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
Saturdays: 10.30 to 17.45 (except in January & August)
There are guided tours the duration of the tour is approx 1 hour. The last admission is at 16.45.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adults: £9 approx, Children: £7 approx, Concessions: £7 approx.
Note: Children must be accompanied by Adults and there is no admission for children under 10.
Facilities:
There are toilet facilities on site.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Spencer House Map
Tips & Other Considerations
There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is recommended visitors double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open and avoid disappointment.
Follow sensible travel safety tips and remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times. Ensure valuables such as your wallet/purse are hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to London ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. Use the journey planner for door to door journey planning. Check the traffic updates before travelling.
If you are looking for car parking close to the House, ensure you fully understand the rules, regulations & charges for car parks and street parking. The parking rules & regulations can be complex & confusing if you are unclear, it is wise not to park there.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
