Mansion House, London – Historic Residence of the Lord Mayor
Explore the grand 18th-century Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, a living symbol of the City’s rich civic heritage and architectural splendor.
Mansion House in London is the official residence and office of the Lord Mayor of the City of London. Built in the mid-18th century in elegant Palladian style, this Grade I listed building features grand reception rooms like the Egyptian Hall and a ballroom, hosting important civic events and banquets. Though not regularly open to the public, exclusive guided tours reveal its rich history, stunning architecture, and fine art collections.
A brief summary to Mansion House
- Walbrook, London, EC4N 8BH, GB
- +442076262500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Book your guided tour in advance as Mansion House is open to the public only on scheduled Tuesdays and for organised groups.
- Arrive at least 10 minutes early for security checks before your tour begins.
- Wear comfortable shoes; some areas have stairs and artworks may not be fully accessible by lift.
- Check the official website for any changes to tour schedules or special events that may affect access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Mansion House station on the District or Circle lines; the station is about a 3-minute walk from Mansion House. Note that the station is not step-free, so Bank station nearby offers accessible alternatives. Travel time from central London is typically 10-20 minutes. Single fares range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the vicinity of Mansion House, including routes 11, 15, and 17. Buses provide frequent service throughout the day, with journey times from central London varying between 15 and 30 minutes. Contactless payment is accepted on all buses.
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Taxi / Ride-share
Taxis and ride-share services can drop you off directly at Mansion House. Travel times depend on traffic but generally range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares starting around £10-£20.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in the City of London, Mansion House is accessible on foot via paved streets. Walking times vary but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is flat and suitable for most visitors.
Mansion House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Mansion House
Architectural Grandeur Rooted in Civic Purpose
Mansion House stands as a magnificent example of Palladian architecture, designed by George Dance the Elder and constructed between 1739 and 1753. Its grand temple portico with six Corinthian columns and sweeping steps heralds the building’s importance as the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London. The design reflects the City of London's stature as a global financial and trading hub, combining classical Greek and Roman influences with 18th-century Georgian elegance. The building’s Grade I listing underscores its architectural and historic significance.A Hub of Civic Life and Ceremony
Since Sir Crispin Gascoigne first took residence in 1758, Mansion House has been the center of the City’s civic, judicial, and governmental functions. It hosts state banquets, official receptions, and the renowned annual Mansion House Speech delivered by the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The building also serves as the Lord Mayor’s office and the venue for numerous business meetings and livery company events, maintaining an active role in London’s governance and ceremonial traditions.Interior Splendor and Notable Spaces
Visitors on guided tours can explore the opulent interiors, including the Egyptian Hall, famed for its scale and classical columns arranged in an Egyptian motif, originally designed to seat up to 1,000 guests for banquets. The Salon, once an open courtyard, is now a grand reception area adorned with dazzling crystal chandeliers crafted by Messrs Osler. The Drawing Rooms display mid-19th century décor and house part of the Harold Samuel art collection, featuring Dutch and Flemish masterpieces. The Lord Mayor’s Parlour offers an intimate glimpse into the private chambers where official business is conducted.Art, History, and Unique Features
Mansion House boasts one of the finest collections of 17th-century Dutch and Flemish paintings in Britain, alongside sculptures inspired by English poets. The building’s cellars, once used as prison cells, now serve as storage, adding layers to its historic narrative. A notable artifact is the 18th-century Hallkeeper’s Chair, designed to provide warmth and comfort in the grand halls. These elements enrich the visitor experience with cultural and historical depth.Access and Visitor Experience
Though Mansion House is not generally open to the public, it offers weekly guided tours on Tuesdays (excluding August and public holidays), accommodating up to 40 people per session. The tours require advance booking and provide expert commentary by City of London guides. Accessibility features include a ramp, lift access to all floors, disabled toilets, and a sound loop in the Egyptian Hall, though some artworks are only viewable via stairs.Location and Surroundings
Situated in the heart of the City of London on Walbrook, Mansion House is close to key financial institutions like the Bank of England and the Royal Exchange. Its location underscores its role at the center of London’s historic and contemporary civic life. The nearby Mansion House Underground station, though not step-free, connects visitors to the wider city, with Bank station offering accessible alternatives.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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City of London
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113 Cannon St
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Cornhill Fountain
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Threadneedle St
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Pudding Ln
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Bloomberg Arcade
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St Mary Abchurch
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Change Alley
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Bank of England Museum
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St Margaret Lothbury
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Royal Exchange
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St Mary Aldermary
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St Michael Cornhill
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St Mary-le-Bow Church
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London's Roman Amphitheatre
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Guildhall Art Gallery
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St Lawrence Jewry
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Guildhall
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Essential places to dine
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Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
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St. John
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Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
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Sea Containers Restaurant
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Restaurant Story
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Lyle's
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Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
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Nest Restaurant Old Street
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The Clove Club
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Ikoyi Restaurant
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Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Traders Gate
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Tower of London Shop
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Middlesex Textiles
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Bankside Arches Boutique
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Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
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SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
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Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
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DPUS Designer Outlet
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j-me original design ltd
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Sugar And Style
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Brick Lane Souvenirs
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Pop Up Luxury Shop
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Black Parrot
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
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
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
