Apsley House: The London Home of the Duke of Wellington

Step into the grand London home of the Duke of Wellington and explore a world of art, history, and aristocratic splendor at Apsley House.

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Apsley House

Apsley House, known as 'Number One, London', is the historic London residence of the Duke of Wellington, victor of Waterloo. Set at the edge of Hyde Park, this grand townhouse blends neoclassical architecture with opulent interiors and a world-class art collection. Half the house remains a private family residence, while the public rooms showcase Wellington’s military memorabilia, European masterpieces, and the famous Waterloo Gallery. Apsley House offers a rare glimpse into the life of one of Britain’s most influential figures.

A brief summary to Apsley House

149 Piccadilly, London, W1J 7NT, GB
+442074995676
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
Thursday 11 am-5 pm
Friday 11 am-5 pm
Saturday 11 am-5 pm
Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit the Waterloo Gallery to see the Duke’s most impressive collection of art and military memorabilia.
Look for the Duke’s personal items, including his boots and dentures, for a unique glimpse into his life.
Check the opening hours in advance, as the house is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Take time to admire the neoclassical architecture and the grand portico, which are highlights of the house’s exterior.
Don’t miss the Piccadilly Drawing Room, which features Dutch masterpieces and reflects the anti-French sentiment of the 17th century.

Getting There

Underground

Take the Piccadilly Line to Hyde Park Corner station; the house is a 5-minute walk from the station exit, with clear signage and step-free access.
Bus

Several bus routes (9, 14, 19, 22, 38, 52, 73, 74, 137, 139, 159, 452) stop near Hyde Park Corner, with a 3–7 minute walk to the house depending on your stop.
Walking

From central London landmarks like Buckingham Palace or Green Park, allow 15–20 minutes for a scenic walk along Piccadilly, passing historic buildings and parks.
Taxi

Taxis can drop off directly outside Apsley House, but traffic around Hyde Park Corner can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

Apsley House location weather suitability

Any Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Apsley House

Number One, London

Apsley House stands at the historic entrance to Hyde Park, where it was once the first house encountered by travelers entering London from the west. Its nickname, 'Number One, London', reflects its prestigious position and the awe it inspired in the 18th and 19th centuries. Originally built for Lord Chancellor Henry Bathurst by Robert Adam in the 1770s, the house was later acquired by the Duke of Wellington, who transformed it into a palatial residence befitting his status as a national hero. The house’s location, architecture, and enduring legacy make it a landmark of London’s aristocratic past.

The Duke’s Grand Residence

Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, purchased Apsley House in 1817 and commissioned architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt to expand and refurbish it. The renovations included the addition of a grand portico, the State Dining Room, and the magnificent Waterloo Gallery, designed to celebrate Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo. The house became a center of political and social life, hosting annual Waterloo Banquets and serving as a venue for diplomacy and entertainment. The interiors reflect the Duke’s refined taste, with ornate ceilings, sweeping staircases, and rooms filled with gifts from European rulers.

A Treasure Trove of Art and History

The public rooms of Apsley House are a showcase of Wellington’s outstanding art collection, featuring works by Titian, Rubens, Velázquez, and Canova. The Waterloo Gallery is the centerpiece, displaying portraits, military memorabilia, and a spectacular table crafted from a captured French cannon. The house also holds personal items belonging to the Duke, including his boots and even his dentures, made from the teeth of soldiers killed at Waterloo. The collection offers a vivid portrait of Wellington’s life, achievements, and the era in which he lived.

Living History and Heritage

Apsley House is unique among London’s historic houses: it is the last surviving great London townhouse and the only property managed by English Heritage where the original owner’s family still resides. The house was opened to the public in 1952, and today visitors can explore the dazzling interiors, glittering treasures, and fabulous art collections that have been preserved for generations. The house’s blend of private and public spaces, its rich history, and its connection to one of Britain’s greatest military leaders make it a captivating destination for anyone interested in art, history, and heritage.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Apsley House: The London Home of the Duke of Wellington

A brief summary to Apsley House

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Underground

Bus

Walking

Taxi

Apsley House location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Apsley House

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Apsley House

Number One, London

The Duke’s Grand Residence

A Treasure Trove of Art and History

Living History and Heritage

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington

Machine Gun Corps Memorial

Royal Artillery Memorial

Wellington Arch

Statue of Achilles

Constitution Hill

Belgrave Square

Canada Memorial

Buckingham Palace

The State Rooms

38 Grosvenor Sq

Queen Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial

Historic Houses

Clarence House

Unmissable attractions to see

Hyde Park Corner

Queen Elizabeth Gate

New Zealand War Memorial

Bomber Command Memorial

Commonwealth Memorial Gates

Curzon Mayfair

Horse & Groom

The Green Park

Park Ln

Grosvenor Chapel

Mount Street Gardens

The Punch Bowl

Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mayfair

Canada Gate

Clermont Club

Essential places to dine

Ormer Mayfair Restaurant

HIDE

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

The English Grill

Francatelli

Seven Park Place by William Drabble

Great British Restaurant

Quaglino's

Bill's Victoria Restaurant

Apricity Restaurant

sketch

Chez Antoinette Victoria

NOPI

Little Social

Caxton Grill

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Queen's Shop

Buckingham Palace Shop

Cool Britannia

Harrods

Burlington Arcade

Cardinal Place

Crest Of London

London Gifts

Liberty London

Canvas Collection

CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON

Beyond Retro Soho