The core of what we call St Jamess dates from the late seventeenth century, when large estates were leased by the Crown to the landed gentry after the Restoration in 1660. St Jamess clubs, coffee houses and institutions have been shaped by enterprise, political conflict, and Britains emerging role as an Imperial power. This is the historic heart of Londons Clubland. Over 300 years, Clubland has extended its reach to encompass Piccadilly, Mayfair, Bond Street, Covent Garden and Westminster. Ever discreet, the clubs do not draw attention to themselves, though their members are often highly influential individuals who are leaders in politics, the law, the media and much more. Palaces of Power charts the evolution of Londons Clubland, St Jamess, exploring the social and cultural history of the citys most prestigious district, and studying the tensions between the world of privilege and an emerging public realm over the last three centuries.