Somerset House

Somerset House is a large building complex situated on the south side of the Strand in central London, overlooking the River Thames. The Georgian era quadrangle was built on the site of a Tudor palace originally belonging to the Duke of Somerset in 1547. The present Somerset House was designed by Sir William Chambers and was further extended with Victorian era outer wings. The site of Somerset House stood directly on the River Thames until the Victoria Embankment was built in the late 1860s. Today, Somerset House is a new kind of arts centre, offering a diverse and dynamic public programme of contemporary arts and culture, and is home to a large community of creative businesses, artists, and makers. The beautiful Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court hosts various events and installations throughout the year, making it a great place to visit with family and friends