Somerset House: From Beheaded Duke to Bohemian Paradise
So you've found yourself in the jolly old city of London, and stumbled upon a grand building with a name that sounds like a fancy brand of marmalade – Somerset House. But fear not, friend! This ain't your nan's pantry staple. Somerset House is a place steeped in history, brimming with culture, and guaranteed to be a right corker of a time (well, most of the time – we'll get to that later).
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| What is Somerset House In London |
From Palace to Party Pad: A History with a Few Hiccups
Somerset House started life a bit like a bad rom-com. In the 1500s, a Duke named Somerset built himself a swanky palace. Unfortunately, he had a falling out with the royal fam (think "meet the in-laws gone wrong" on a national scale) and got his head lopped off! Awkward. The palace landed in the hands of the crown, and even housed a young Princess Elizabeth I for a bit.
Fast forward a few centuries, and Somerset House gets a makeover. Gone are the frills and Tudor vibes, hello grand neoclassical design! This is when things get interesting. The building became a hub for all sorts of government shenanigans, from the Navy Board to the taxman (yawn). But hey, it also housed the Royal Academy of Arts, so there was a bit of culture amongst the tax returns.
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
What's on Offer Now? Let's Get Cultured!
These days, Somerset House is like the cool kid at the party. It's shed its stuffy government role and embraced its inner bohemian. Here's what you can expect:
- Art Attack! The Courtauld Gallery is a must-see for any art lover. Think Impressionist masterpieces, Renaissance gems, and a whole lot more.
- Film Fanatics Rejoice! Somerset House regularly hosts film screenings, talks, and exhibitions – perfect for catching that indie flick or documentary you've been meaning to see.
- Foodie Heaven! From fancy restaurants with a view to grab-and-go cafes, you won't go hungry at Somerset House. There's even a courtyard that transforms into a summer hotspot, complete with pop-up bars and deckchairs – perfect for soaking up the sun (when it decides to peek through the clouds, that is).
Top Tip: Check out the Somerset House website before your visit. There's always something exciting happening, from fashion weeks to live music.
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
So, is it Worth a Visit?
Absolutely! Whether you're an art aficionado or just looking for a cool place to hang out, Somerset House has something for everyone. Plus, it's a cracking example of Georgian architecture, so you can impress your mates with your historical knowledge (or at least pretend you know what you're on about).
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FAQ: Somerset House Survival Guide
How to Get There? Somerset House is super easy to reach. The closest tube stations are Temple and Charing Cross, and there are plenty of buses that stop nearby.
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
How Much Does it Cost? Entry to Somerset House itself is free, but there are charges for exhibitions and events. Check the website for details.
How Long Should I Spend There? You could easily spend a whole day exploring Somerset House, or just pop in for an hour to see a specific exhibition.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
Is it Kid-Friendly? Yes! There are often family-friendly events and activities on offer.
Can I Take Photos? Absolutely! Snap away and share your Somerset House adventures on social media (don't forget to tag them!).
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