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This new Somerset House replaced the old building which was probably begun around 1547 and demolished in the 18th-century to make way for the superb structure we see today. The present great palace is the work of Sir William Chambers, and frames a huge courtyard. The building stands between the Strand and the Thames embankment, and was formerly the home of The General Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages, and later it became offices for The Inland Revenue.
Somerset House recently underwent complete refurbishment, its exciting architecture attracts admiring visitors from all parts of the world, and now for the enjoyment of everyone, the palace offers unrivalled collections of stunning paintings and decorative art. There are exhibits relating to the old palace, telling of its history and the sumptuous entertainment which took place there-in. The courtyard fountains play all summer long, magically just as evening shadows fall, floodlights turn the dancing waters into millions of gem-like drops. In the winter the courtyard is transformed to provide an ice rink in a dazzling neo-classical setting.
This wonderful palace is a must for every visitor, here there is truly something for everyone, whether it be simply relaxing by the fountain, enjoying the magnificent displays, or visiting the shops, galleries and cafe's. Fans of the James Bond movies, will easily recognise Somerset House, it was the back-drop for the Ministry of Defence in Tomorrow Never Dies, and the courtyard was used for sequences in Golden Eye.
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