Carlton Gardens, London: Historic Elegance and Wartime Legacy
Historic London cul-de-sac famed for elegant architecture and its role as Free French Forces HQ during WWII.
Nestled in London's prestigious St James's district, Carlton Gardens is a cul-de-sac known for its elegant 19th-century architecture and significant wartime history. The area features grand houses, including the famed 3 and 4 Carlton Gardens, once headquarters for the Free French Forces led by General Charles de Gaulle during WWII. Today, it is a tranquil enclave blending private residences, historic monuments, and formal gardens near The Mall and St James's Park.
A brief summary to Carlton Gardens
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Luxury
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Respect the privacy of current residents, as many buildings are private homes or offices with no public access.
- Visit the statue of General Charles de Gaulle opposite 4 Carlton Gardens to appreciate the area's WWII significance.
- Explore nearby St James's Park and The Mall for scenic walks and iconic London views.
- Use nearby tube stations such as Charing Cross or Green Park for convenient access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Charing Cross Station, approximately 10-15 minutes' walk from Carlton Gardens. Charing Cross is served by the Northern and Bakerloo lines. Tickets cost £2.50–£6.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Carlton Gardens, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Bus travel times vary between 15-25 minutes from central London areas, with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber provide direct access to Carlton Gardens. Travel time from central London is typically 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £8 to £20.
Carlton Gardens 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 Gardens
Architectural Grandeur in a Historic London Enclave
Carlton Gardens is a distinguished cul-de-sac located at the western end of Carlton House Terrace in the St James's district of London. The area is characterized by elegant, stucco-faced houses designed in the neoclassical style, many of which date back to the early 19th century. Among these, 3 Carlton Gardens stands out as a Grade II* listed building designed by Decimus Burton. This three-story house with an attic features a balustraded first-floor balcony and private formal gardens, epitomizing refined London residential architecture.Wartime Headquarters of the Free French Forces
During the Second World War, Carlton Gardens gained historical prominence as the site of the Free French Forces headquarters. From June 1940 to June 1944, General Charles de Gaulle led the Free French armed forces from 3 and 4 Carlton Gardens after fleeing occupied France. This location was the nerve center for organizing Free French military training and operations, symbolizing French resistance and hope. Today, a bronze statue of General de Gaulle stands opposite number 4, commemorating his leadership and the site's pivotal role in wartime history.Prominent Residents and Modern Prestige
Over the centuries, Carlton Gardens has housed notable figures such as politicians Frederick Hodgson and James Stuart-Wortley, as well as army officer George Weld-Forester. Post-war, 3 Carlton Gardens was used by the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) for recruitment interviews. In recent years, the property has been owned by high-profile individuals, including hedge fund manager Kenneth C. Griffin, reflecting its status as one of London's most exclusive addresses.Setting and Surroundings
Situated near The Mall and overlooking St James's Park, Carlton Gardens offers a serene and leafy environment amidst central London’s bustle. The cul-de-sac is surrounded by private formal gardens and is close to landmarks such as the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Memorial. The area’s proximity to major tube stations like Charing Cross and Green Park enhances its accessibility while maintaining an air of exclusivity.Preservation and Contemporary Use
Many of the original houses in Carlton Gardens have been replaced by office buildings, but numbers 1 to 4 remain as private residences or institutional headquarters. The architectural integrity is preserved through heritage listings and careful renovations. The blend of historic charm and modern luxury makes Carlton Gardens a unique pocket of London’s rich urban tapestry.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Carlton Gardens stands as a testament to London’s layered history—from aristocratic residences and political significance to its crucial role during WWII. The presence of commemorative plaques and statues ensures that the legacy of the Free French Forces and General de Gaulle continues to be honored, making Carlton Gardens a site of cultural heritage and remembrance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.0 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.1 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.1 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
St James's Square
0.1 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
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
0.3 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.
Captain James Cook
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Pickering Pl
0.3 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
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.
Admiralty Arch
0.3 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
St. James's Palace
0.3 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Old Admiralty Building
0.4 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.4 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.4 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pall Mall
0.1 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.1 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.1 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.
Carlton House Terrace
0.1 km
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Duke of York Column
0.1 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.
Waterloo Pl
0.1 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
The Mall
0.2 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.3 km
Experience London's historic His Majesty's Theatre, home to iconic musicals and timeless theatrical heritage in the vibrant Haymarket district.
The Queen's Chapel
0.3 km
Discover the elegant 17th-century Palladian chapel beside St. James’s Palace, steeped in royal history and architectural refinement.
Christie's London
0.3 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
Theatre Royal Haymarket
0.3 km
Historic West End theatre with rich traditions, elegant design, and acclaimed productions in London’s vibrant Haymarket district.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.3 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite selection of wines at Berry Bros. & Rudd, London's historic wine shop and event venue.
Masons Yard
0.3 km
Discover Mason's Yard, a historic London square blending rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary galleries in the heart of St James's.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.3 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.3 km
Experience authentic British pub culture at The Red Lion in Mayfair, where history meets hospitality in the heart of London.
Essential places to dine
Wild Honey St James
0.2 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Golden Lion
0.3 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Quaglino's
0.4 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Great British Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.5 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.5 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.
Kricket Soho
0.5 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Evelyn's Table
0.6 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
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.
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.
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.
The Garden
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
J Sheekey
0.7 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
John Lobb St. James
0.3 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Floris London
0.3 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Fortnum & Mason
0.4 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Crest of London Ltd
0.4 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
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.
Burlington Arcade
0.5 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
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.
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.
Cool Britania
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.6 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.6 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
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.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.6 km
Britain’s first luxury chocolatier since 1875, nestled in Mayfair’s Royal Arcade – where tradition, truffles and royal patronage meet in every exquisite box.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.5 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.5 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Spy Bar
0.5 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.5 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
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.
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.
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.
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 Harp, Covent Garden
0.7 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Westminster Arms
0.7 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Ku Bar
0.7 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Blind Spot London
0.7 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Duke Of Wellington
0.7 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Village Soho
0.7 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.7 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.3 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
0.3 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 Cuckoo Club
0.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Penthouse London
0.6 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tabu London
0.6 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.
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.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.6 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.
Heaven
0.7 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.
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.
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.
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.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.7 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 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 Boat Show Comedy Club
0.8 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Classic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly