Apsley House: The Duke of Wellington’s London Residence and Historic Treasure
Discover Apsley House, London’s ‘Number 1’ historic townhouse, home to the Duke of Wellington’s art, military treasures, and Regency grandeur.
Apsley House, located at 149 Piccadilly, London, is the historic neoclassical townhouse of Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington. Known as ‘Number 1, London’ for its position at the city’s western entrance, it showcases grand Regency interiors, a vast collection of European art and military memorabilia celebrating Wellington’s victory at Waterloo, and remains partly a private family home while open as a museum.
A brief summary to Apsley House
- 149 Piccadilly, London, W1J 7NT, GB
- +442074995676
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- 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 grand space where the Duke hosted his famous banquets and displayed his art collection.
- Look for the monumental marble statue of Napoleon as Mars the Peacemaker in the main stairwell, weighing 13 tonnes.
- Explore the Piccadilly Drawing Room to admire original Robert Adam interiors combined with Regency-era refurbishments.
- Check opening hours in advance as the house is closed on some weekdays; Saturdays and Sundays have consistent opening times.
- Half of Apsley House remains a private residence, so public access is limited to ground and first floors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the London Underground to Hyde Park Corner station on the Piccadilly Line; from there, it is a 5-7 minute walk to Apsley House. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and a single journey costs between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on ticket type.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Apsley House, including routes 9, 14, 19, 22, and 38. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations, with an adult fare of approximately £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London to Apsley House typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares to range from £10 to £20. Note that parking is very limited in the area.
-
Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Apsley House is pleasant and takes about 15-25 minutes from landmarks such as Buckingham Palace or Green Park, along mostly flat, paved routes suitable for most visitors.
Apsley House location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Apsley House
Origins and Architectural Grandeur
Apsley House was originally built between 1771 and 1778 by the renowned architect Robert Adam for Henry Bathurst, 1st Baron Apsley. Designed in the neoclassical style, the house features symmetry, grand columns, and elegant classical detailing. Its location on Piccadilly, opposite the toll gates marking the western entrance to London, earned it the nickname ‘Number 1, London’. The original red-brick façade and distinctive oval staircase remain integral to its historic charm, although the exterior was later clad in Bath stone during expansions in the 19th century.The Duke of Wellington’s Transformations
Purchased by Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, in 1817, Apsley House was extensively remodeled by architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt to reflect the Duke’s elevated status after his military triumphs. Wyatt added a three-storey extension including a grand State Dining Room and private chambers, and created the spectacular Waterloo Gallery, a 90-foot-long space designed to display Wellington’s growing collection of artworks and host grand banquets commemorating his victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo.A Living Museum of Military and Artistic Heritage
The house houses the Wellington Collection, an extraordinary array of paintings, silver trophies, military memorabilia, and gifts from grateful European monarchs. Highlights include masterpieces by Canova, Velázquez, Rubens, and Titian, as well as the monumental marble statue "Napoleon as Mars the Peacemaker," commissioned by Napoleon himself and later gifted to Wellington. The collection vividly narrates the Duke’s military campaigns and political influence, making Apsley House both a historic residence and a museum of national significance.Continuing Legacy and Public Access
After Wellington’s death in 1852, his descendants opened the house to the public, establishing it as a museum celebrating his legacy. Today, English Heritage manages the public areas, preserving the house’s interiors and collections while the upper floors remain a private residence for the current Duke of Wellington. Visitors can explore the opulent reception rooms, galleries, and exhibitions that vividly evoke Regency London and the life of one of Britain’s greatest military leaders.Distinctive Features and Cultural Significance
Apsley House stands as one of the finest examples of Georgian and Regency architecture in London. Its location at Hyde Park Corner, near the Wellington Arch, and its role as a symbol of British military glory and aristocratic grandeur make it a unique cultural landmark. The house’s nickname, ‘Number 1, London,’ reflects its historical position as the first grand residence encountered by visitors entering London from the west, cementing its place in the city’s architectural and social history.Artistic and Historical Atmosphere
Stepping inside Apsley House immerses visitors in an atmosphere of refined elegance and historical resonance. The richly decorated rooms, fine art, and military artifacts combine to tell stories of power, diplomacy, and artistic patronage. The house’s blend of neoclassical design and Regency embellishments creates a harmonious setting that honors the Duke’s achievements and the era’s cultural sophistication.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.1 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
0.1 km
A striking WWI memorial at Hyde Park Corner, blending classical art and the harsh realities of mechanized warfare to honor the Machine Gun Corps’ sacrifice.
Royal Artillery Memorial
0.1 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Wellington Arch
0.1 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.8 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Historic Houses
0.8 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.9 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
Republic of Texas Plaque
1.0 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
St. James's Palace
1.0 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Speakers' Corner
1.0 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Pickering Pl
1.0 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Little Ben Clock
1.0 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
1.0 km
A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.
Beau Brummell Statue
1.0 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Buckingham Palace Rd
1.0 km
Discover the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the iconic residence of the British monarchy, and immerse yourself in royal history and heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hyde Park Corner
0.1 km
Historic crossroads and green sanctuary where London's grand Wellington Arch and war memorials meet serene parkland.
Queen Elizabeth Gate
0.1 km
Explore the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth Gate, a historic entryway to Hyde Park, blending rich heritage with natural beauty in the heart of London.
New Zealand War Memorial
0.1 km
Discover the New Zealand War Memorial at Hyde Park Corner, a poignant tribute to bravery and sacrifice amidst London's historic landscape.
Statue of Achilles
0.1 km
A towering bronze tribute to the Duke of Wellington’s victories, blending classical myth and British history near his famed London home.
Bomber Command Memorial
0.2 km
Discover the Bomber Command Memorial in London's Green Park, a poignant homage to the brave souls of the Royal Air Force during World War II.
Commonwealth Memorial Gates
0.2 km
Explore the Commonwealth Memorial Gates in London, a stunning tribute to the bravery of soldiers from various nations during World Wars I and II.
Curzon Mayfair
0.4 km
Experience London’s premier art-house cinema in a stunning Grade II listed 1960s building, blending cinematic heritage with modern luxury.
Horse & Groom
0.5 km
A charming historic pub tucked away in Belgravia’s cobbled mews, blending traditional hospitality with rich celebrity and cultural heritage.
Shepherd Market
0.5 km
Discover Shepherd Market, a charming historic village in Mayfair blending boutique shops, cozy pubs, and rich London heritage.
Constitution Hill
0.5 km
A historic royal route in London linking Hyde Park Corner with Buckingham Palace, rich in heritage and scenic charm.
Belgrave Square
0.5 km
Belgrave Square: A stately garden square in Belgravia, blending 19th-century elegance with exclusive private gardens and rich diplomatic history.
The Green Park
0.5 km
A tranquil Royal Park in central London offering peaceful lawns, historic memorials, and scenic views near Buckingham Palace.
Park Ln
0.6 km
Prestigious Park Lane in London blends historic grandeur with luxury hotels, upscale shops, and serene Hyde Park views along its iconic 1.1 km stretch.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.6 km
Discover nearly two centuries of exquisite craftsmanship and royal heritage at Thomas Goode & Co, London's premier luxury tableware emporium in Mayfair.
Harvey Nichols
0.6 km
Discover Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge, a historic luxury department store blending cutting-edge fashion, gourmet dining, and iconic London style.
Essential places to dine
The Grenadier
0.3 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.6 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
HIDE
0.6 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
0.6 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The English Grill
0.8 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.8 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Great British Restaurant
0.9 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Quaglino's
1.0 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
1.0 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Golden Lion
1.0 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Mercato Mayfair
1.1 km
Experience diverse global street food in a stunning restored church at the heart of London’s Mayfair district.
Apricity Restaurant
1.1 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
sketch
1.2 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
1.3 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
NOPI
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.2 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
The Queen's Shop
0.7 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Buckingham Palace Shop
0.8 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
Cool Britannia
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
John Lobb St. James
1.0 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
1.0 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Burlington Arcade
1.0 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Knightsbridge
1.0 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where world-class shopping, elegant architecture, and cultural attractions blend seamlessly.
Piccadilly Arcade
1.0 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Cardinal Place
1.0 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Bond St
1.0 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
LONGCHAMP
1.1 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Fortnum & Mason
1.1 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Prestat Chocolates
1.1 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Princes Arcade
1.1 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.6 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The New York Bar
0.8 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Bbar
0.8 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
1.2 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Adam & Eve
1.2 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
All Bar One Victoria
1.2 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
1.3 km
Discover a stylish Mayfair speakeasy blending inventive cocktails, retro charm, and attentive service in London's vibrant Pollen Street scene.
Disrepute - Soho
1.3 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
Cahoots London
1.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.4 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
Blue Boar Pub
1.4 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Two Chairmen
1.4 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
The Argyll Arms
1.5 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
The Thin White Duke
1.5 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Duke of Argyll
1.5 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.8 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
0.9 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 Scotch of St James
1.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
1.2 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Carwash Nightclub
1.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Tiger Tiger London
1.5 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
1.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sunset night club
1.5 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
TSQ Club
1.6 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.
Café de Paris
1.6 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Box Soho
1.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.6 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.
Sophisticats Soho
1.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Penthouse London
1.7 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Neoclassical Designs
- Regency Elegance
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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