Banqueting House, Whitehall of it in January 1649. The building was controversially re-faced in Portland stone in the 19th century, though the details of the original façade were faithfully preserved. Today, the Banqueting House is a national monument, open to the public and preserved as a Grade I listed building. It is cared for by an independent charity—Historic Royal Palaces—which receives no funding from the British Government or the Crown. The Palace of Whitehall was the creation of King Henry VIII, expanding an earlier mansion that had belonged to Cardinal Wolsey, known as York Place. The King was determined that his new palace
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