Police were called to a bar in Victoria in central London – a short walk from the palace – on Tuesday evening when a festive celebration turned violent.
A 24-year-old woman, who has not been identified, was arrested on suspicion of common assault, criminal damage and of being drunk and disorderly, London’s Metropolitan Police told CNN.
She reportedly smashed some glasses and turned on a member of the bar staff.
Management at the royal residence say the matter is now being investigated and that disciplinary action could follow.
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“While this was an informal social gathering, not an official Palace Christmas party, the facts will be fully investigated, with a robust disciplinary process followed in relation to individual staff and appropriate action taken.”
The spokesperson told the BBC that the post-reception drinks, which staff went on to at the bar, were informal and had not been arranged by the palace.
A spokesperson for London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed the incident to CNN in an email, saying: “At 21:21hrs on Tuesday, 10 December officers were called to a bar in Victoria Street, SW1 following reports that a customer had smashed glasses and attempted to assault a member of staff.
“Officers attended and arrested a 24-year-old woman on suspicion of common assault, criminal damage and being drunk and disorderly.
“She was taken into custody and released the following evening having been given a penalty notice for disorder.”