Somerset House
Strand WC2R 1LA
Tel: 020 7845 4600
After extensive renovation, this magnificent 18th-century former riverside palace is now a thriving cultural centre for London and the inspirational setting for the Courtauld Institute of Art the Gilbert Collection and the Hermitage Rooms.
The expansive courtyard, featuring the Edmond J Safra Fountain Court provides a venue for open air events, which include an ice rink in the winter months, an open-air cinema and concert venue.
The Introductory Gallery introduces the people and events connected with Somerset House throughout its history.
The view from the terraced riverfront garden, now open to the public, was painted twice on his London visit by Canaletto (looking upriver and down).
Open: 10am-6pm daily. Extended opening hours apply to the courtyard and River Terrace
Admission free - (Admission is charged for the Courtauld Gallery, the Gilbert Collection of Decorative Arts and the Hermitage Rooms).
Tube: Charing Cross and Covent Garden
www.somerset-house.org.uk
