Where: Whitehall

What: Commissioned by James I and built by Inigo Jones, london banqueting house was part of Whitehall Palace. Completed in 1622, it was embellished by Charles I, who had the famous ceiling painted by Rubens (the artist was rewarded with £3,000 and a knighthood).

It was through a window of the london banqueting house that King Charles went to his execution in 1649 (he was executed just outside the building). It is the only surviving building of Whitehall Palace.

Nearest underground station: Charing Cross / Westminster

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10.00am - 5.00pm.

Admission charges apply: (2005) Adults: £4; Children 5 - 15 £2.60, free under 5.

Website: hrp.org.uk

Banqueting house also plays host to part of the Charles I Commemoration March - a march that happens in January each year and commemorates the execution of King Charles I