St James's Palace Overview

Built in the traditional Tudor red-brick around four courtyards, the beautiful St James's Park is a senior palace of Britain's sovereign. It has a long history as a royal residence, following its commission by Henry VIII. The Tudor king ordered it to be built on the site of a former leper hospital, which was dedicated to Saint James the Less.

The palace is steeped in history, having been the principal residence of several monarchs since the end of the 17th century. There are a number of famous stories surrounding the historic palace. Mary I died there, while Elizabeth I is rumoured to have stayed their while waiting for the Spanish Armada to sail home. Unfortunately for Charles I, it was where he laid his head the night before his execution. His son Charles II restored the palace after Oliver Cromwell turned it into a barracks.

Today, St James's Palace stands very much in the shadow of the grander Buckingham Palace just down the road, but still remains integral to the running of the monarchy. The State Apartments at the palace are often used for entertainment during State Visits, as well as a number of other occasions.

Charities that the Royals are figureheads for are often invited for receptions at the palace. It is also the London residence of the Princess Royal and Princess Alexandra. The Prince of Wales and his sons William and Harry also stay at Clarence House within St James's Palace. Lancaster House, also situated on the sprawling grounds, is used by HM Government for receptions.

St James's Palace Location

The palace is located in the grounds of St James's Park in the Westminster area of London. The closest tubes are St James's Park, Victoria, Green Park and Hyde Park Corner.

Why Visit St James's Palace

You should visit St James's Palace in order it to experience the grandeur, history and tradition of the British monarchy. Unfortunately, unlike at Buckingham palace, tourists are not able to get inside the grounds or take guided tours. What they can do however is visit the palace's Chapel at select times during the year.

Without getting into the grounds, you can still watch and take pictures of the guards. St James's is one of the four places in London where you can see guards from the Household Division resplendent in their crimson jackets. The other locations are Clarence House, Horse Guards and of course Buckingham Palace.