Courtauld Gallery

The elegantly restored Blavatnik Fine Rooms showcase some of the greatest and most-loved works from The Courtauld’s Collection from the Renaissance through to the 18th Century. Major highlights include Botticelli’s large-scale The Trinity With Saints, a room dedicated to works by Peter Paul Rubens, and a comprehensive collection of decorative arts including ornate ceramics. Three of the most prominent artistic, scientific and historical societies had their meeting rooms in these spaces – the Royal Academy, Royal Society and Society of Antiquaries. The architect of Somerset House, William Chambers, was a founding member of the Royal Academy and made sure its rooms on this floor were sumptuously decorated with stunning ceilings, beautiful fireplaces and ornate door handles. A suite of six galleries spanning the entire second floor of the building makes it possible to host a standing reception for up to 200 guests, or an intimate seated dinner for up to 50 in the Rubens and Baroque Room.