Lambeth Palace, on the south bank of the River Thames opposite Parliament, has been a historic London residence of Archbishops of Canterbury since the 13th century. It acts as a home for the Archbishop and his family when in London and as the central office for his national and international ministry. The Archbishop employs several dozen staff to support him in his work there. In addition to the Archbishop's senior advisers and administrative staff, the Palace is serviced by a building manager, steward, cook, gardeners, gatekeepers and cleaners, all of whom take care of the historic building and its grounds.