Whitehall

Whitehall is a street about 0.4 miles long in the City of Westminster, running from Trafalgar Square to Parliament Square and lined with government ministries and administrative offices. The road cuts through the center of Britain's government district, where civil servants move between buildings and tourists pause to photograph some of the country's most recognized institutions.

The Palace of Whitehall served as the main residence of English monarchs from the 16th century until the late 1690s and gave the street its name. A major fire in 1698 destroyed most of the palace complex, leaving only the Banqueting House with its ceiling paintings by Peter Paul Rubens.

The street name recalls a royal palace that once dominated this area for more than 150 years and served as the political heart of England. The Cenotaph war memorial at its center becomes the focus of national remembrance ceremonies each November, when officials and the public gather to lay wreaths and honor fallen soldiers.

The closest Underground stations are Westminster and Charing Cross, both within a few minutes' walk of the street. Security checkpoints operate near government buildings, so carrying identification is advisable if you plan to enter certain areas or pass through controlled zones.

The Banqueting House is the only surviving building from the former royal palace and holds large ceiling paintings by Peter Paul Rubens from the 17th century. The hall was the setting for important royal banquets and is now open for events and public visits.