Carlton House Terrace, London
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Carlton House Terrace is a distinguished Georgian terrace in central London, designed by John Nash and built between 1827 and 1833 on the site of the former Carlton House, once the lavish residence of the Prince Regent. This Grade I listed architectural masterpiece features two elegant white stucco-faced blocks framing the Duke of York’s Column, overlooking St James’s Park and The Mall. It has housed notable figures and institutions, including Prime Ministers, aristocrats, and now the British Academy.
A brief summary to Carlton House Terrace
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the British Academy at Nos. 10-11 to see beautifully restored interiors and attend cultural events.
- Admire the terrace’s classical façades and the Duke of York’s Column, a focal point between the two blocks.
- Explore nearby St James’s Park and The Mall to appreciate the terrace’s scenic royal surroundings.
- Learn about the terrace’s history as a World War I hospital and its notable residents like William Gladstone.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly or Victoria Line to Green Park station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Carlton House Terrace. The station is wheelchair accessible. Typical fare ranges from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 9, 14, 19, and 22 stop near The Mall or Trafalgar Square, about a 10-minute walk from the terrace. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.75 using contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £8 to £15. Note that parking nearby is limited and often restricted.
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Walking
From Trafalgar Square, a scenic 15-minute walk along The Mall and through St James’s Park leads directly to Carlton House Terrace. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors.
Carlton House Terrace location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Carlton House Terrace
From Royal Residence to Architectural Landmark
Carlton House Terrace occupies the historic site of Carlton House, the grand London residence of George IV when he was Prince Regent. Originally built on Crown land known as the Royal Garden, the site was home to an aristocratic townhouse rented by Baron Carleton in the early 18th century, which later passed to Frederick, Prince of Wales, and then to George III. George IV extensively remodelled Carlton House, making it a center of Regency social life. However, after ascending the throne in 1820, he deemed the residence inadequate and moved to Buckingham Palace. Carlton House was demolished in 1826 to make way for the present terraces, designed to provide first-class housing on this prime site.John Nash’s Vision and the Terrace’s Design
The terraces were designed by John Nash, a leading architect of the Regency era, with detailed contributions from Decimus Burton and construction overseen by James Pennethorne. Built between 1827 and 1833, the two blocks of white stucco-faced houses flank the Duke of York’s Column and form an impressive backdrop to St James’s Park and The Mall. Nash’s design was inspired by French classical architecture, particularly the Place de la Concorde in Paris, and intended to create a grand yet harmonious streetscape. Today, both terraces are Grade I listed, reflecting their architectural and historic significance.Notable Residents and Historical Uses
Carlton House Terrace has been home to many prominent figures, including the Ridley family, William Gladstone, and the Guinness family. No. 10 was the Ridley family residence from the 1830s to the 1920s and was remodelled in the early 20th century with elegant French classical interiors. During World War I, Lady Ridley converted parts of No. 10 into a hospital for wounded officers. No. 11 had varied occupants such as Lord Monson, gambling hall proprietor William Crockford, and Prime Minister Gladstone, who occasionally held Cabinet meetings there. The terrace also hosted clubs and institutional offices, including the Union Club and later the Commonwealth Secretariat.The British Academy and Modern Restoration
Since 1998, the British Academy has occupied Nos. 10 and 11 Carlton House Terrace, preserving and restoring the historic interiors. A major renovation completed in 2011 linked the two buildings and added modern facilities, including a 150-seat auditorium. The terrace remains owned by the Crown Estate and continues to serve as a prestigious address for academic and cultural institutions. Its elegant façades and refined interiors offer a glimpse into London’s Regency grandeur and evolving urban fabric.Architectural and Cultural Significance Today
Carlton House Terrace stands as one of London’s finest examples of Georgian architecture and urban planning. Its harmonious proportions, classical detailing, and strategic location overlooking royal parks and ceremonial routes make it a landmark of national importance. The terrace’s history intertwines royal ambition, architectural innovation, and social transformation, embodying the spirit of Regency London. It continues to attract attention for its aesthetic beauty, historical resonance, and role as a hub for intellectual and cultural activity.Legacy of a Royal Site Transformed
The transformation from Carlton House to Carlton House Terrace illustrates the changing needs and tastes of British royalty and society in the 19th century. While the original palace symbolized regal opulence and personal extravagance, the terraces represent a shift toward urban elegance and public utility. The preservation of these buildings as Grade I listed structures ensures that this legacy endures, allowing visitors and residents alike to experience a key chapter in London’s architectural and social history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.0 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.1 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.1 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.2 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.2 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Captain James Cook
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
St James's Square
0.2 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Admiralty Arch
0.2 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Old Admiralty Building
0.2 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Guards Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.3 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
16-18 Whitehall
0.3 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Nelson's Column
0.3 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.4 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.4 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Duke of York Column
0.0 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.0 km
Honoring Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, the Defender of London during WWII’s Battle of Britain, through a striking bronze statue in central London.
Waterloo Pl
0.1 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
Carlton Gardens
0.1 km
Elegant Regency architecture and serene gardens meet rich wartime history in the heart of London’s prestigious Carlton Gardens.
Pall Mall
0.2 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.2 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.2 km
Experience London's historic His Majesty's Theatre, home to iconic musicals and timeless theatrical heritage in the vibrant Haymarket district.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
Theatre Royal Haymarket
0.2 km
Historic West End theatre with rich traditions, elegant design, and acclaimed productions in London’s vibrant Haymarket district.
Canada House
0.3 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
The Mall
0.3 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
Haymarket
0.3 km
Step into the Theatre Royal Haymarket, a historic West End jewel blending Georgian elegance with three centuries of theatrical brilliance.
Wonderville
0.3 km
Discover Wonderville, London’s captivating cabaret club blending magic, comedy, and variety in an intimate West End setting near Piccadilly Circus.
The Fourth Plinth
0.3 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Comedy Carnival Leicester Square
0.3 km
Experience London’s top unapologetic stand-up comedy club with award-winning international acts in an intimate, lively setting near Leicester Square.
Essential places to dine
Wild Honey St James
0.1 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Golden Lion
0.4 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.4 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Quaglino's
0.5 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Great British Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Kricket Soho
0.5 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
The Garden
0.5 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.5 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
J Sheekey
0.6 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.6 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Bantof
0.6 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Blacklock Soho
0.6 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Mele e Pere
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Floris London
0.4 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.4 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
Prestat Chocolates
0.4 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
John Lobb St. James
0.5 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Princes Arcade
0.5 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Fortnum & Mason
0.5 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.5 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.5 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.6 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Unique Britain
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.3 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
0.4 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.4 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.6 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.6 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
The Thin White Duke
0.6 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Ku Bar
0.6 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.6 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Two Chairmen
0.6 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Duke of Argyll
0.6 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.6 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.7 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Scotch of St James
0.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Cuckoo Club
0.6 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Heaven
0.6 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.6 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Tabu London
0.7 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Sophisticats Soho
0.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.7 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.7 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.7 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Box Soho
0.7 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Ivy Club
0.8 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Classic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
