Somerset House is a large Neoclassical building situated between The Strand and the River Thames. The building, originally the site of a Tudor palace, was designed by Sir William Chambers in 1776, and further extended with Victorian wings to the north and south. The building housed various learned societies, including the Royal Academy of Arts, which Chambers was instrumental in founding, and the Royal Society and Society of Antiquaries.

The main government department in the early days was the Admiralty, leading to the legend thatNelson worked in the building for a time. In 1837 the Registrar General of Births, Marriages and Deaths set up his office in the North Wing, establishing a connection that lasted for almost 150 years.

Today, The Courtauld Institute of Art occupies the North Wing, whilst the East Wing forms part of the adjacent King’s College London. During the summer months 55 fountains dance in the courtyard, and in winter you can skate on London’s favourite ice rink. Somerset House also hosts open-air concerts and films, contemporary art and design exhibitions

The architectural model is of the central section of Somerset House viewed from the courtyard.

Address: Somerset House, London WC2R 1LA, United Kingdom