The Lost Palace of Whitehall is a visitor experience that will be opening at Banqueting House in London for eight weeks this summer.
Banqueting House is the only remaining complete building of Whitehall Palace, which was the monarchy’s principal residence until 1698 when it was destroyed by fire.
The Lost Palace experience will use digital techniques to give visitors an insight into the dramatic events that took place in the building.
Discover the past
Working with design studio Chomko & Rosier and theatre company Uninvited Guests, Historic Royal Palaces (who look after Banqueting House) will create a multi-sensory experience to immerse visitors in the history of the property.
Once a labyrinth of over 1,500 rooms spread over 23 acres, the palace was home to political feuds, births, deaths, marriages, executions and scandal. The Lost Palace experience uses digital technology to retell the history of the monarchs and people that lived and worked there.
Groups taking part in the Lost Palace experience will see the connections between stories and spaces from the old palace to their present day locations. Some of the most famous events that took place in Whitehall include Charles I’s execution, and the premiere of Shakespeare’s Othello.
Tech suppport
Visitors will purchase a ticket from Banqueting House and pick up a device ready to explore the lost spaces and stories of Whitehall Palace.
With the device they will encounter the characters that once inhabited the spaces while on Whitehall’s modern streets.
More information plus running dates are to be revealed closer to the opening.
Group visiting information
GTOs are advised to book a time slot for a visit to the Lost Palace of Whitehall. Groups can time a visit to coincide with a Hidden History talk at 11.30am with a palace team member, or book a guided tour if desired.
Group rates are available for parties of 15 or more, and coach parking is available along the Victoria Embankment.
For further group travel information visit www.hrp.org.uk/BanquetingHouse.
(Photo credit: Historic Royal Palaces).
