Located in the northern wing of Fulham Palace, the opulent Bishop Sherlock’s room is the ideal venue for grand celebrations and memorable events.
One of the building’s most striking spaces, this high-ceilinged hall is filled with character from top to bottom. Towering windows shower the room with light, a grand Steinway piano stands proud at the western wall and a sparkling chandelier hangs high above the scene from a striking rococo ceiling. Suitable for all manner of events from private parties to intimate dinners, Bishop Sherlock’s room is a truly distinctive setting right at the heart of the Palace.
The history of Bishop Sherlock’s room
The eponymous Bishop Thomas Sherlock commissioned this room to be built in the mid-18th century upon his arrival at the Palace. Eager to renovate the existing Tudor solar, he envisaged the space as a magnificent dining room complete with lodgings above. The room went on to live many lives; described by Bishop Porteus as being of ‘perfect Palladian proportions’, it was later converted into a kitchen by Bishop Howley and even served as a modern office space from the 1950s until the early 2000s.
A space with stories
Having been lovingly restored in 2006, Bishop Sherlock’s room retains many of the features of its original construction, including a few homages to its namesake. Look up to the rococo plasterwork ceiling and you might just find a pair of faces gazing back at you. These are thought to represent Bishop Thomas Sherlock himself and his beloved wife Judith. For many years concealed above the false ceiling of the 20th century office space, they are now able to gaze down together on scenes of merriment and celebration once more.
Your event
Today, Bishop Sherlock’s room is a versatile and highly sought-after event space. Its grand proportions and refined charm make it particularly well suited to:
- Wedding receptions – the Palladian plasterwork makes the perfect backdrop for intimate receptions and cake-cutting moments
- Private dining & celebratory meals – the open, welcoming layout makes it an ideal location for large gatherings and convivial group dining
- Masterclasses & workshops – the elegant space recently hosted a Charlotte Tilbury Masterclass, ushering in a touch of contemporary glamour
- Corporate receptions & presentations – the stately nature of the room suggests a subtle balance of formality, warmth and sophisticated character
Bishop Sherlock’s room is a standout location within Fulham Palace’s wider portfolio of event spaces, each offering its own unique atmosphere and story. Whether you’re hosting a celebratory dinner, a corporate event, or a gathering of family and friends, we can help you to find the perfect setting to suit your needs in this beautiful historic house.
Speak with our team today by emailing functions@fulhampalace.org!