Somerset House Trust

In 1547, Edward Seymour, the Duke of Somerset, began the process of constructing a palace for himself on the banks of the Thames River in London. Over 450 years later, Somerset House has withstood wars, demolitions, reconstructions, the Black Plague, and some of the United Kingdom's most important moments in history. In 1997, the Somerset House Trust was established to preserve this historic space, which is now home to the United Kingdom's largest creative community. With an innovative business model as an income stream, over three million visitors participate in Somerset House's public programming, which includes installations and exhibitions, artmaking, and educational events. Somerset House is dedicated to ensuring its artistic studio space and public programming reflects the most relevant issues facing its global audience while fostering the growth of emerging professionals. Above all else, Somerset House seeks to make this modern use of space accessible – welcoming guests to a pet-friendly campus complete with cafes, restaurants, office space, and activities for all ages.