St James's Palace: From Leper Hospital to Royal Court

Discover the intriguing history of St James’s Palace in this groundbreaking account, the first of its kind. Serving as the official residence of the British monarchy from 1698 to 1837, St James’s Palace remains one of the least explored royal residences. Unveiling new insights, this book delves into its pivotal role as the heir to the throne's residence before 1714 and its profound influence on the development of London's West End during the late Stuart period. Following the devastating fire at the Palace of Whitehall, St James’s assumed the mantle as the primary seat of the British monarchy in 1698.

The narrative meticulously chronicles the arrangement and display of the Royal Collection at St James’s across centuries, from the Victorian era through to the present day. Enhanced with specially commissioned maps, phased plans, and digital reconstructions, the book offers a captivating journey through the palace's architectural evolution. Richly illustrated with historical drawings, watercolours, photographs, and plans, it provides a comprehensive view of St James’s Palace's enduring significance.

Edited by Simon Thurley, with contributions by Rufus Bird, Simon Thurley, and Michael Turner, this volume is complemented by four large-scale plans that offer detailed insights into the palace's layout at pivotal moments in its history.

Hardcover.

308 pages.

30 x 24.5 cm