St James's Palace
The Mall, London SW1

St James's Palace was built in the late-1530s by Henry VIII, on the site of St James's Hospital, a former leper hospital.  The palace was a primary royal residence only briefly, during the reign of Elizabeth I and the late-17th and early-18th centuries. 

In 1952 Elizabeth II made her first speech here as Queen from St James's Palace.  The Tudor palace is still the Court's official headquarters and tradition dictates that foreign ambassadors to the UK are known as 'Ambassador to the Court of St James'. 

Today it is used by Prince Charles and other royals. 

The palace's red-brick northern gatehouse, viewed from St James's Street, is one of the capital's few Tudor landmarks.  Behind the gatehouse, the majority of the palace buildings are now occupied by privileged Crown servants. 

Most of what is seen today is the result of remodelling by John Nash, a favourite of the Prince Regent, in the early-19th century.   Nash was also responsible for Clarence House, next door, the residence of the Queen Mother. 

Although St James's Palace is closed to the public, visitors can explore Friary Court on Marlborough Road and attend Sunday services at the Chapel Royal.   Charles I took holy communion at the Chapel Royal on the morning of his execution, and Victoria and Albert were married here.  Chapel Royal services: 8.30 am & 11.30 am October to Good Friday.

Not open to the public