Two Temple Place: A Neo-Gothic Victorian Masterpiece on London’s Victoria Embankment
Discover Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic Victorian mansion blending literary grandeur and architectural mastery on London’s iconic Victoria Embankment.
Two Temple Place is a dazzling neo-Gothic mansion built in 1895 for William Waldorf Astor, an American millionaire who became a British aristocrat. Located on London’s Victoria Embankment, it features ornate Portland stone carvings, a richly decorated interior filled with literary and historical motifs, and a magnificent Great Hall inspired by Elizabethan design. Today, it serves as a cultural venue owned by the Bulldog Trust, hosting exhibitions and community events in a setting that blends architectural grandeur with storytelling.
A brief summary to Two Temple Place
- 2 Temple Pl, London, Temple, WC2R 3BD, GB
- +442078363715
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the official Two Temple Place website for current opening dates and exhibition schedules as the venue is only open on select days.
- Take time to admire the intricate exterior carvings and the gilded weather vane symbolizing the Astor family legacy.
- Inside, don’t miss the Great Hall’s hammer-beam ceiling and the friezes featuring historical and literary figures.
- Visit during an exhibition to experience the building’s role as a vibrant cultural venue hosting art from UK regional collections.
- Photography is often allowed inside during exhibitions, so bring a camera to capture the stunning interiors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Temple Station on the District or Circle lines, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to Two Temple Place. Services run frequently, and Oyster or contactless payment is accepted. No additional cost beyond standard fare zones.
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Bus
Bus routes 4, 11, 15, and 26 stop near Victoria Embankment, within a 5-7 minute walk. Buses run regularly throughout the day with standard Transport for London fares.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off directly at 2 Temple Place. Travel times vary with traffic but typically range from 10 to 25 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares from £8 to £20 depending on distance and time.
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Walking
If staying nearby, Two Temple Place is accessible on foot via flat, paved city streets. Walking from Covent Garden or the Strand takes around 10-15 minutes over mostly even terrain, suitable for most visitors.
Two Temple Place 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 Two Temple Place
A Vision of Victorian Gothic Grandeur
Two Temple Place was commissioned by William Waldorf Astor in the early 1890s and completed in 1895 as his London estate office. Designed by John Loughborough Pearson, a pioneer of modern Gothic Revival architecture, the building is a neo-Tudor jewel constructed entirely of Portland stone. Its exterior is adorned with intricate carvings, gargoyles, and grotesques by master craftsmen such as Nathaniel Hitch. The building’s crenellated roofline is topped by a gilded weather vane modeled after Christopher Columbus' ship, the Santa Maria, symbolizing Astor’s family legacy of exploration and enterprise.Astor’s Personal Legacy and Symbolism
Though never Astor’s residence, Two Temple Place was deeply personal, reflecting his passion for history, literature, and his desire to establish himself as an English gentleman after emigrating from the United States. The building’s façade and interiors are rich with symbolism referencing his great-grandfather John Jacob Astor’s pioneering spirit. Bronze lamp standards at the entrance feature cherubs, one depicted using a telephone, celebrating the modern technologies of the era. Inside, the Great Hall’s hammer-beam ceiling and stained glass canopy evoke Tudor and Jacobean grandeur, while friezes depict 54 historical and fictional characters, including Pocahontas, Marie Antoinette, and figures from Arthurian legend.Architectural and Artistic Excellence
The interior boasts exquisite craftsmanship, including ten solid ebony pillars surrounding the entrance gallery and mahogany carvings inspired by Astor’s favorite literary works like The Three Musketeers. The Great Hall served as Astor’s study and meeting room, designed to impress with its Elizabethan style and rich decorative panels. Despite damage sustained during World War II, including a flying bomb hit in 1944, the building was sympathetically restored post-war to preserve its artistic and architectural integrity.From Private Office to Cultural Beacon
After Astor’s death, the building changed hands several times, serving various commercial purposes until acquired by the Bulldog Trust in 1998. The Trust uses Two Temple Place as a cultural and community hub, hosting exhibitions, educational programs, and private events. It is a unique example of a historic building that continues to evolve, balancing preservation with active public engagement. Its role as a charity venue underscores its transformation from a private estate office into a space for social impact and cultural enrichment.Setting and Surroundings
Nestled on the Victoria Embankment overlooking the River Thames, Two Temple Place offers a striking contrast between its medieval-inspired architecture and the bustling modern city around it. The forecourt features paved areas and a lawn bordered by an arcaded wall, creating a serene urban oasis. The building’s location in the Temple area situates it amidst historic legal and cultural landmarks, enhancing its allure as a hidden gem in central London.Visiting and Experiencing Two Temple Place
Two Temple Place is open to the public on select days, often hosting major exhibitions that showcase publicly owned art from UK regional collections. Its interiors provide an immersive experience of Victorian artistry and storytelling, making it a must-see for lovers of architecture, history, and literature. Visitors can explore its richly decorated halls and marvel at the craftsmanship that makes it one of London’s most remarkable neo-Gothic buildings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King's Reach commemoration memorial
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Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
St Clement Danes Church
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Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
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A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Prince Henry's Room
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Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
The Old Watch House
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A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Hare Pl
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Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
South Bank Community Area
0.4 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Waterloo Bridge
0.5 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Victoria Embankment
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A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
3 Gunpowder Square
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A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Strand
0.5 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.6 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.6 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Ludgate Circus
0.6 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.6 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
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Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
Middle Temple Venue Hire
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A stunning Elizabethan hall at the heart of London’s legal heritage, blending history, architecture, and tradition in a serene riverside setting.
Monument Queen Victoria
0.1 km
Historic gateway memorial with majestic statues of Queen Victoria and Edward VII, crowned by the iconic City of London dragon.
Temple Station
0.1 km
Step into history at Temple Station, a Victorian-era gateway to London’s medieval Knights Templar district and legal heritage.
Temple Church
0.2 km
Explore the exquisite Temple Church, a 12th-century architectural marvel in London, rich in history and breathtaking beauty.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.2 km
Uncover the historical significance of Temple Bar Memorial, a captivating landmark in the heart of London, reflecting the city's rich heritage and culture.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.2 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
Hidden London - Aldwych Station
0.2 km
Step into London’s hidden past with exclusive tours of Aldwych Station, a disused Tube shelter rich in history and wartime stories.
National Trust - Strand Lane "Roman Bath"
0.2 km
Discover London’s hidden Tudor-era cold bath beneath the Strand, where myth and history intertwine in a unique urban relic.
The Old Bank of England
0.3 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Bank of England, a premier pub in London, offering delicious food, local brews, and a vibrant atmosphere.
King's College London
0.3 km
Historic riverside campus blending classical architecture with modern academia in central London’s vibrant cultural heart.
King's College Chapel
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of King's College Chapel, a must-visit Gothic masterpiece in the heart of London.
St Mary le Strand Church
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite Baroque beauty and rich heritage of St Mary le Strand Church, a tranquil sanctuary and landmark in the heart of London’s Strand.
St Dunstan-in-the-West
0.3 km
Discover St Dunstan-in-the-West, a neo-Gothic marvel on Fleet Street with a rich history spanning over a millennium and unique octagonal design.
Somerset House
0.3 km
Historic neoclassical landmark and vibrant cultural hub on the Thames, blending art, performance, dining, and innovation in central London.
Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.4 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.5 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Sarastro
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Wahaca Southbank
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.6 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
0.6 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.7 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.7 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Chez Antoinette
0.7 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Strada Southbank
0.7 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Margot
0.7 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
wagamama southbank
0.7 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Punch & Judy
0.7 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twinings - The Strand
0.2 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.2 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Sugar And Style
0.4 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.5 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
0.5 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.5 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.7 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
The Moomin Shop London
0.7 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
not just a shop
0.8 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
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Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
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Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Gifts of London
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Floral Street
0.9 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Understudy
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Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Lyaness
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Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
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Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Plume Wine Bar
0.6 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Black Parrot
0.6 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Beaufort Bar
0.6 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
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Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.6 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.6 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.7 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.7 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Crusting Pipe
0.7 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.7 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.7 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Upstairs At Rules
0.8 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Proud Late
0.5 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.8 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Heaven
0.9 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.0 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
1.0 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.1 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.
Cirque Du Soul
1.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.1 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.1 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Ivy Club
1.1 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.2 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 Penthouse London
1.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
TSQ Club
1.3 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
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
