Shield Gallery

Shield Gallery

Running from east to west alongside the Thames, the Shield Gallery provided an excellent viewing point to watch the Privy Stairs. The gallery took its name from the circumstance that the shields offered on the occasion of tournaments in the Tilt Yard were hung there.

"'We were taken into a long passage across the water, which on both sides is beautifully decorated with shields and mottoes. These shields originate from tournaments which the queen orders to be held twice a year, the first on her birthday, the second when she ascended the throne. Everybody who wishes to take part must ask permission; this being granted, he offers the shield to the queen, who orders it to be hung up there.' ~ Von Wedel, 1584.""'Their landing was at the Privy Staires of Whitehall, where in the Shield Gallery stood on each side ranged those Ladies of quality and beauty, that had not yet seen the Queen.' ~ Landing of Queen Henrietta Maria in 1625"

Entry into: Exit to:
 * King's Back Stairs
 * Privy Stairs


 * Privy Garden
 * Water Gate
 * Privy Gallery