Overview
Somerset House is not a traditional museum with permanent collections, but a multidisciplinary cultural venue. It functions as an exhibition and event space as well as an open public courtyard that can be enjoyed without visiting an exhibition. Its central location on the Strand makes Somerset House a natural part of London’s cultural landscape.
History
The history of Somerset House dates back to the 16th century, when a Tudor-era palace stood on the site. The present building complex was constructed in the late 18th century, when the area was redeveloped for use by the British state. For many years, Somerset House served as an administrative centre, housing institutions such as the Navy Board, the tax authorities, and several scientific organisations.
The building’s role began to change in the 1990s, and from 2000 onwards, Somerset House was gradually opened to the public for exhibitions and cultural use. Since then, it has developed into the open and publicly accessible cultural centre it is today.
Architecture
The present-day Somerset House is mainly a Neoclassical complex designed in the late 18th century by architect Sir William Chambers. The Neoclassical style was chosen to reflect the building’s original governmental function. Its defining features include strong symmetry, carefully considered proportions, and classical references typical of the period’s public architecture.
An earlier Somerset House stood on the site in the 16th century and was designed by Inigo Jones, representing an earlier Renaissance-influenced architectural style. This building was demolished before the construction of the current complex, as the site was redeveloped to meet changing needs.
Exhibitions and Contemporary Culture
Rather than permanent collections, Somerset House’s programme focuses on temporary exhibitions and events. The content is particularly centred on contemporary art, photography, fashion and visual culture. Exhibitions are often thematic and topical, addressing current cultural and social issues through visual expression.
The building also hosts creative organisations and studios, including Somerset House Studios, which provides workspace for artists and creative practitioners, and Makerversity, which focuses on craft, design and making through shared workshops and facilities.
Courtyard, Ice Rink and Events
In addition to exhibitions, Somerset House’s central courtyard hosts seasonal events. During the summer months, the courtyard has been used for open-air cinema screenings and cultural events, while in winter it transforms into a popular outdoor ice rink.
During the skating season, the courtyard also features a café and lounge areas. In recent years, a seasonal café operated by Fortnum & Mason has offered hot drinks and light refreshments alongside the ice rink.
Somerset House Among London’s Museums
Somerset House is part of London’s wider network of institutions focused on visual culture, but its operating model differs from that of collection-based museums. While the Victoria and Albert Museum explores fashion and design and The Photographers’ Gallery focuses specifically on photography as an art form, Somerset House builds its identity around temporary exhibitions, events and creative-sector activity. In this sense, it functions as a cultural hub alongside traditional museums rather than as a museum itself.
Practical Visitor Tips
Somerset House is located on the Strand, beside the River Thames, and is easily reached from Temple or Covent Garden Underground stations. The courtyards are generally free to enter, while exhibitions usually require a separate ticket. A visit can easily be combined with a riverside walk or nearby cultural attractions such as the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, or the wider Covent Garden area.
