Banqueting House, Whitehall lived in "splendour and state", or publicly. The less exalted and the general public would be permitted to crowd the gallery in order to watch the King dine. The lower status of those in the gallery was emphasised by the lack of an internal staircase, the gallery only being accessible by an external staircase. The building was, however, later extended to accommodate an internal staircase. James I, for whom the Banqueting House was created, died in 1625 and was succeeded by his son, Charles I. The accession of Charles I heralded a new era in the cultural history of England.
King Charles Club Club was born. The society is still active in present times, despite being banned from college grounds. "Invitation-only" by nature, the King Charles Club selects only from members of St John's College. The club still follows its centuries old traditions, including the laying of the wreath at Whitehall on the anniversary of the king and martyr's execution. The dinner traditionally celebrated after this event has in recent years been held at Stringfellows, Covent Garden. Peter Stringfellow is the honorary president. The Conservative politician Aidan Burley was president of the club during his time at St Johns. Canadian Nobel Prize–winning politician