Last night I went to the preview of the Start Sustainable Pop Up Restaurant at Lancaster House, which opens today. We spotted a few celebrities there including Barbara Windsor, Jeff Banks and a man who used to be in Hollyoaks (we think!)

Start Pop Up Restaurant aims to offer sustainable dining in every aspect – from locally-sourced ingredients to reclaimed furniture and organic wine.

The most exciting aspect is its location in the beautiful Lancaster House which isn’t usually open to the public but may look familiar if you’ve seen The King’s Speech (it stood in for Buckingham Palace in the film). Lancaster House felt just as grand as the palace and it was a real treat just to walk through a small part of it.

The chance to dine in the Grand Hall at Lancaster House has proved so popular that reservations for lunch and dinner are almost fully booked, but there’s still the option to enjoy a sharing platter on the terrace overlooking the garden or drinks at the garden bar.

We really enjoyed having a nosey round the gardens and wondering whether Prince Charles would pop in from next door (Clarence House).  

The restaurant is only open until 31 July and is well worth a look. If you’re desperate to eat there, a few lunchtime slots are still available (book now!), or head over to the terrace or bar which don’t require a reservation.

Start Pop Up Restaurant, Lancaster House, 27-31 July, 11am-10.30pm