Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Spencer House is one of the finest surviving 18th-century aristocratic palaces in London, originally built as a grand private townhouse for the first Earl Spencer between 1756 and 1766. It showcases spectacular Georgian architecture and richly preserved historic interiors.

While the freehold remains with the Spencer family, Spencer House was leased by Lord Rothschild in 1980, who subsequently oversaw an ambitious restoration of the property.

Over the centuries, Spencer House has played host to those in prominent political, cultural and social circles. In modern times, it was reopened by Diana, Princess of Wales in 1991.

– Tube: Green Park Station (Piccadilly, Victoria, and Jubilee lines)

–  Bus: Routes serve nearby Piccadilly and Pall Mall

–  Car: Limited parking is available; public transport is recommended

Collections

The house displays an impressive collection of paintings, furniture and decorative objects chosen to reflect 18th-century aristocratic taste, including pieces original to the house and on long-term loan from institutions such as the Royal Collection Trust and Victoria & Albert Museum.

The collection spans numerous significant artworks, decorative objects, and historic furnishings across the State Rooms, inclusive of generous long-term loans from the Tate and National Trust.

Film and photography for personal, non-commercial use is allowed during tours. For commercial filming, please contact filming@spencerhouse.co.uk

Events

Spencer House is available for exclusive hire and is suitable for corporate events, private parties, receptions, and special occasions.

Yes. Spencer House is licensed to hold marriage and civil ceremonies.

Capacities differ by room, with a maximum capacity of up to 450 guests throughout the House.

Yes. Event catering is arranged through our in-house team and includes a wide range of options such as canapés, bowl food, food stations, and formal seated dining.

Prices vary depending on the event type, date, guest numbers, and required services. Please submit an enquiry to receive a bespoke quote.

For any questions, please contact the Spencer House events team via their enquiry form.

Tours

Public access tours run every Sunday, excluding August. Tours run from 10.30am to 4pm at regular intervals. Availability and tickets can be viewed here.

Group tours are available by prior arrangement on Monday mornings, for a minimum of 15 people or the equivalent charge. Special access tours are available at other times throughout the week, dependent on events taking place in the house. Group tour information can be found here.

Monday morning group tour tickets are the same cost per person as our Sunday opening; Adults £19.50 and Concessions £16.50. Special access tours can be arranged at an additional charge, please contact us for details.

We recommend you purchase your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Availability and tickets can be viewed here. It is possible to purchase tickets on the day from the front desk, but these are on a first come, first served basis.

If you are just running late on the day, we can usually put you on the next available tour. If you are unable to make your chosen date, we can rearrange your booking for a future visit.

A tour of the house takes around an hour. From April to October, weather permitting, the garden tour follows the house tour and takes around 15 minutes.

No, access to Spencer House is by guided tour only.

We don’t recommend bringing young children under 10 to Spencer House, although this is at your own discretion. If children are disruptive on a tour, your guide may ask you to take them back to the Entrance Hall. Pushchairs are not permitted in the State Rooms.

Large bags, back packs, luggage, and umbrellas are not allowed in the State Rooms but may be checked into the complimentary cloakroom and reclaimed at the end of your visit. Small handbags may be carried. We operate a bag search policy on entry to Spencer House.

Photography and video recording for personal, non-commercial use is allowed throughout the State Rooms. Please don’t hesitate to tag us @spencer.house on Instagram

Spencer House is an accessible venue. We have wheelchair ramps, a lift, and an accessible toilet. There are seats in some rooms for people to take rests during tours, as well as folding stools for support. Please contact us ahead of your visit if you have further mobility or access concerns.

No but Spencer House guidebooks are available to buy in the Entrance Hall or via our online gift shop.

No but there are restaurants and cafes nearby on Piccadilly or St James’s Street.

No food or drink may be brought into the State Rooms.

 No. Carers or essential companions accompanying a disabled visitor are admitted free of charge. No proof of disability  is required.

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