Queen's House, Royal Museums Greenwich
Discover the Queen's House, a remarkable 17th-century architectural masterpiece located within Greenwich's UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Image: The Queenβs House Greenwich. July 2023. Β© MTotoe.
The Queen's House is a remarkable architectural gem nestled within Greenwich's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally designed by the visionary Inigo Jones in the 1630s, this royal retreat served as a haven of luxury for monarchs and court favourites, while also nurturing the creativity of talented artists and craftsmen. Commissioned by Anne of Denmark, wife of James I, and completed under the watchful eye of Charles I's consort, Henrietta Maria, the Queen's House holds the distinction of being England's first classical building.
Image: Tulip Stairs, Queenβs House. July 2023. Β© MTotoe.
The Queen's House presents a remarkable art collection showcasing renowned artists like Turners, Gainsborough, Holbein, L.S. Lowry, Kehinde Wiley and Tania Kovats. It has unique architectural features, including the country's first unsupported spiral staircase resembling a sea shell, the Tulip Staircase, which also holds intriguing mysteries, such as the legend of a ghostly presence on the Tulip Stairs.
Image: The Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I. Queenβs House. July 2023. Β© MTotoe.
After an extensive restoration project starting in 2015, the Queen's House reopened its doors to the public in 2016. The restoration, led by Turner Prize winner Richard Wright, beautifully honors its history as an art lovers' hub, with a meticulously crafted new ceiling adorned with gold leaf patterns in the King's Presence Chamber. The House is home to over 450 artworks, including iconic masterpieces like the 'Spanish Armada Portrait' of Elizabeth I.
Image: Queenβs House. July 2023. Β© MTotoe.
Image: The Greet Hall at Queenβs House. July 2023. Β© MTotoe.
Today, the Queen's House seamlessly integrates historic paintings and interiors with contemporary art and sculpture. Throughout the year, the House becomes a vibrant venue, hosting live events that include music, theatre, and thought-provoking discussions. Visitors have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating lives of past occupants, explore the creative minds behind the stunning Tulip Stairs, and uncover the rich historical treasures concealed within its galleries.
Image: Protected view from Queenβs House. July 2023. Β© MTotoe.
The latest exhibition, The Van de Veldes: Greenwich, Art, and the Sea, celebrates the influential Dutch artists Willem van de Velde the Elder and Willem van de Velde the Younger. Their exceptional maritime artistry left a lasting impact on British art, inspiring generations of artists, including the renowned J.M.W. Turner. Now, after 350 years, the Queen's House proudly welcomes back the legacy of the Van de Veldes, marking a historic return to its roots as their artistic home. The exhibition is free to visit and will be on at the House until 14 January 2024. Click here to discover contemporary art on show in the house.
Location: Queen's House, Royal Museums Greenwich, Romney Road, SE10 9NF. Opening hours: Daily 10am - 5pm. Website: rmg.co.uk
