Government Houses of the British Empire and Commonwealth

A Government House is any residence used by governors-general, governors and lieutenant-governors in the Commonwealth and the British Empire.

Government Houses serve as the venue for governors' official business, as well as the many receptions and functions hosted by the occupant.

When King Charles III or a member of the royal family visits a Commonwealth nation, they will often stay at the Government House, which is reported in the Court Circular.

This privilege is sometimes extended to other dignitaries, but usually arrangements are made for important non-royal visitors to be accommodated at hotels, or in accommodations provided by their own country's embassy or consulate.

Other government residences Pre-independence, the living arrangements of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland varied according to the social calendar: After 1922, the Viceregal Lodge served as the official residence of the first two Governors-General of the Irish Free State.