Tour of Spencer House

Built between 1756-1766 for the first Earl Spencer, an ancestor of Diana, Princess of Wales, Spencer House is one of the last grand 18^th century aristocratic houses in London, built in a mix of Palladian and Neo-Classical styles. The spectacular suite of State Rooms, which has played host to the social, political and cultural elite of each generation, includes the Palm Room (with its gold-leaf gilded palm tree columns and a spectacular dome apse framing an 18^th-century copy of the famous Venus de Medici).

The Spencer family moved out in 1927, after which it was leased to a series of private tenants and suffered bomb damage in the Second World War. It has now been restored to its former glory, with a magnificent collection of 18^th century furniture and paintings.

The visit begins with tea/coffee and biscuits followed by a private tour, with a Blue Badge guide, of the eight State Rooms where we will learn more about the history of the house, the interiors and its famous occupants over the years.

Following the tour, there is an option to enjoy a two-course carvery lunch in neighbouring Mark Masons’ Hall, 86 St James’s Street, with views of St James Palace from the Restaurant. The price is yet to be confirmed but is likely to be in the region of £50.

Cost: £30 (over 60s), £35 (under 60s), £40 for non-members of Anglo-Nordic societies/ guests of individual members

(photo copyright Paul Highnam)