Empire House, South Kensington: Historic Elegance Meets Modern Luxury
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Empire House is a distinguished Grade II listed building located at 220 Brompton Road in South Kensington, London. Built between 1909 and 1916 for the Continental Tyre Company, this historic landmark blends Edwardian architectural grandeur with contemporary luxury apartments. Situated on the border of South Kensington and Knightsbridge, it offers residents elegant living spaces, proximity to iconic cultural sites, and access to upscale shopping and dining.
A brief summary to Empire House
- 220 Brompton Rd, London, South Kensington, SW3 2BB, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Explore the nearby Victoria and Albert Museum for a rich cultural experience just minutes from Empire House.
- Enjoy upscale shopping at Harrods and the boutiques on Sloane Street within easy walking distance.
- Take advantage of the 24-hour porter service for added convenience and security.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter atmosphere around Brompton Road and South Kensington.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
South Kensington station is approximately a 5-minute walk from Empire House, served by the District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines. Trains run frequently with fares starting at £2.50 using contactless payment. Note that the station can be busy during peak hours.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Brompton Road near Empire House, including routes 14, 74, and 414. Buses run every 10-15 minutes with a single fare of £1.65 using an Oyster card or contactless payment. Service frequency may reduce late evenings and Sundays.
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Taxi / Ride-Hailing
Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber are readily available in South Kensington. Typical journey times from central London range from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares starting around £10-£20.
Empire 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 Empire House
Architectural Heritage and Historical Significance
Empire House stands as a testament to early 20th-century industrial architecture, designed by Paul Hoffmann and constructed between 1909 and 1916 for the Continental Tyre Company. Its Grade II listing underscores its architectural and historic importance within London’s urban fabric. The building’s stone façade and period detailing reflect Edwardian design sensibilities, contributing to the distinguished character of the Brompton Road area.Residential Elegance and Interior Features
Today, Empire House is renowned for its luxurious residential apartments, featuring high-end finishes such as bespoke joinery, Swarovski crystal chandeliers, and unique marble countertops. Apartments typically include multiple bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, spacious reception rooms with triple aspects, and fully fitted kitchens. The interiors combine classic elegance with modern comforts, appealing to professional couples, small families, and mature individuals seeking refined urban living.Location and Cultural Context
Situated on the border of South Kensington and Knightsbridge, Empire House benefits from its proximity to some of London’s most prestigious cultural landmarks, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum. Residents enjoy easy access to luxury retail destinations like Harrods and Harvey Nichols, as well as the designer boutiques of Sloane Street. The South Kensington Underground station is within a short walking distance, linking the area efficiently to the rest of London.Community and Lifestyle Amenities
Empire House offers a secure and well-managed living environment with 24-hour porter services. The building’s location provides a vibrant yet sophisticated lifestyle, with numerous fine dining options, cafes, and green spaces nearby. The surrounding neighborhood combines the tranquility of residential streets with the energy of a world-class shopping and cultural district.Architectural and Urban Significance
As a landmark on Brompton Road, Empire House contributes to the heritage streetscape of South Kensington. Its scale and design harmonize with adjacent historic buildings, preserving the area's visual cohesion. The building’s adaptive reuse as luxury apartments exemplifies successful conservation paired with contemporary urban living.Living Experience and Visitor Impressions
Empire House encapsulates the essence of refined London living, offering residents a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. The building’s elegant apartments, combined with its prime location, create an exclusive yet accessible lifestyle. Whether admired from the street or experienced from within, Empire House remains a distinguished feature of South Kensington’s architectural and cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Empire House
0.0 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
37 Thurloe St
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Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Béla Bartók Memorial
0.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
1.0 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.3 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
The Old Police House
1.3 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.4 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.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.4 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Wellington Arch
1.5 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
1.5 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.
Cheyne Walk
1.5 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Speke Monument
1.6 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Commonwealth Memorial Gates
1.6 km
A solemn gateway honoring five million Commonwealth servicemen and women who fought for freedom in two world wars.
Kensington Palace
1.6 km
Experience the royal history and stunning gardens of Kensington Palace, a must-see attraction in London for every tourist.
Unmissable attractions to see
Thin House
0.3 km
Discover London’s iconic Victorian-era Thin House, a wedge-shaped architectural marvel in South Kensington, famed for its extraordinary narrowness and artistic heritage.
The Hole in the Wall
0.3 km
A timeless, authentic London pub near Waterloo station, famed for its hearty ales, no-frills charm, and welcoming local atmosphere.
Barts
0.4 km
Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
Knightsbridge
0.5 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Natural History Museum
0.5 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history through iconic fossils, dazzling exhibits, and tranquil gardens at London’s Natural History Museum.
Science Museum
0.5 km
Explore London’s iconic Science Museum with interactive exhibits, live demos, and iconic artifacts celebrating scientific achievement.
St Simon Zelotes
0.5 km
Discover the serene blend of evangelical faith and historic Anglican tradition at St Simon Zelotes in the heart of Chelsea, London.
Harrods
0.5 km
Experience the grandeur of London’s largest luxury department store, where over 330 departments and world-class dining await in Knightsbridge.
Queen's Tower
0.6 km
Discover the Queen's Tower, a stunning historical landmark in South Kensington, showcasing Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Sussex Mansions
0.6 km
Historic mansion block apartments in vibrant South Kensington, blending classic London charm with cultural richness and urban convenience.
HTB Onslow Square
0.6 km
A vibrant Anglican church blending tradition with contemporary worship in the heart of South Kensington.
St Augustine's Church
0.7 km
Discover the striking Gothic Revival beauty and rich Anglo-Catholic heritage of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a William Butterfield masterpiece.
Sloane St
0.7 km
Sloane Street: London’s iconic luxury shopping street blending designer boutiques, fine dining, and elegant urban living in Chelsea and Belgravia.
Imperial Cinema
0.7 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Royal Albert Hall
0.7 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
Essential places to dine
Town House Kensington
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Rabbit
0.9 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
0.9 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The Grenadier
1.2 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
The Jam
1.3 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Grato
1.5 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.5 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
1.5 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
1.5 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
Dishoom Kensington
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.7 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
The English Grill
1.8 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
V&A Shop
0.2 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
Science Museum Shop
0.4 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
0.4 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Urban Outfitters
1.5 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
1.6 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
Jigsaw
1.6 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.6 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.6 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Kensington High St
1.6 km
Discover London’s vibrant shopping heart, where high-end boutiques meet local charm and royal parks.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.7 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Good
1.8 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Cool Britannia
1.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
1.9 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
Thomas Goode & Co
1.9 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
The Queen's Shop
1.9 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
K Bar
0.7 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
Bar 190
0.8 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
0.9 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Stables Bar
1.3 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
The Builders Arms
1.4 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
AMARO BAR - London
1.5 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
1.5 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
1.6 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
1.6 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.6 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
1.8 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
The Swan, Hyde Park
1.8 km
Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending rich London heritage with classic British dining and lively social scenes.
Bbar
1.8 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 New York Bar
1.8 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dolce Night Club , London
0.5 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
0.7 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Metric
0.8 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.9 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
2.2 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.3 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
2.3 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.
Carwash Nightclub
2.6 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
The Scotch of St James
2.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
2.6 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Castle
2.9 km
Classic Notting Hill gastropub where hearty British dishes, crisp ales, and lively vibes create the perfect London local escape.
Ricco London
2.9 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Tiger Tiger London
3.0 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
3.0 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
3.0 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- 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
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly