The Tower House: William Burges’ Gothic Revival Masterpiece in London
Explore The Tower House, a Victorian Gothic Revival jewel in London, famed for its striking tower, rich symbolism, and artistic legacy.
The Tower House, located at 29 Melbury Road in London’s Holland Park, is a striking late-Victorian Gothic Revival townhouse designed and built by architect William Burges as his private residence between 1875 and 1881. Known for its distinctive cylindrical tower, rich symbolic decoration, and medieval-inspired interiors, it stands as a unique architectural treasure and Grade I listed building. The house has a storied history, including restoration efforts and ownership by notable figures such as actor Richard Harris and musician Jimmy Page.
A brief summary to The Tower House
- 29 Melbury Rd, London, W14 8AB, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Admire the exterior architecture and distinctive cylindrical tower from Melbury Road, as the house is privately owned and not open for regular tours.
- Research William Burges’s other works and Gothic Revival architecture to fully appreciate the design context of The Tower House.
- Visit nearby Holland Park to experience the artistic neighborhood that inspired Burges and his contemporaries.
- Explore museum collections such as the Victoria and Albert Museum to see original furniture and decorative pieces from The Tower House.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Holland Park station, approximately 10-15 minutes walk to The Tower House. The walk involves some gentle uphill sections and is suitable for most visitors. No entrance fee applies as the house is viewed externally.
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Bus
Bus routes 27, 28, and 31 serve Melbury Road nearby, with a 5-10 minute walk to The Tower House. Buses run frequently during the day, and tickets cost around £1.75-£2.50 with contactless payment or Oyster card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be more costly, typically £10-£20.
The Tower House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Tower House
Architectural Vision and Design Origins
The Tower House was conceived and designed by William Burges, a leading figure of the Gothic Revival movement, as his own home in the artistic enclave of Holland Park, Kensington. Built between 1875 and 1881, the house’s design draws inspiration from Burges’s earlier work on Castell Coch near Cardiff, featuring a compact but commanding form measuring just over 50 feet square. Its exterior is marked by red London gauge bricks, Bath stone dressings, and a distinctive conical tower clad in Cumbrian green slates. The building’s asymmetrical silhouette and geometric forms—triangles, cubes, and cones—create a bold yet balanced composition. Architectural historian J. Mordaunt Crook praised its logical plan and the seamless integration of medieval motifs with Victorian craftsmanship.Interior Splendor and Symbolic Richness
Inside, The Tower House is a treasure trove of High Victorian artistry and symbolism. Burges and his team of craftsmen decorated the interiors with lavish attention to detail, embedding narratives and cultural references throughout. Each principal room was themed—ranging from time and love to literature—featuring mosaics, stained glass, carved capitals, and bespoke furniture. Notable elements include the mosaic floor depicting Burges’s beloved poodle Pinkie, windows illustrating medieval tales like the Storming of the Castle of Love, and hall mosaics of Theseus and the Minotaur. The house’s furnishings, many now housed in museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Higgins Art Gallery, were designed to be both functional and storytelling artworks, embodying Burges’s belief in the unity of art and architecture.Historical Journey and Preservation
After Burges’s death in 1881, The Tower House passed through several hands, including Burges’s brother-in-law and later Colonel E.R.B. Graham. The house suffered neglect and vandalism mid-20th century until preservation efforts began in the 1960s. Lady Jane Turnbull initiated restoration with support from heritage bodies, followed by actor Richard Harris, who believed the house was haunted, and finally musician Jimmy Page, who purchased it in the early 1970s and remains its owner. The house was designated a Grade I listed building in 1949, recognizing its exceptional architectural and historic significance.Setting and Cultural Context
Situated in the Holland Park district, a hub for artists and creatives in the late Victorian era, The Tower House neighbors homes of prominent painters like George Frederic Watts and Frederic Leighton. Its location within a leafy, upscale London neighborhood enhances its aura as a secluded yet culturally rich retreat. The house’s garden features unique details such as a convex mirror designed to catch the sunset’s rays, adding to its poetic character.Legacy and Architectural Importance
The Tower House stands as a rare and complete example of medieval secular interiors produced by the Gothic Revival, often described as Burges’s architectural manifesto. It embodies a fusion of medieval romanticism and Victorian craftsmanship, influencing architectural and decorative arts beyond its time. Its preservation allows visitors and scholars to appreciate the depth of Victorian design philosophy and the artistic ambitions of one of Britain’s most imaginative architects.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Though privately owned and not generally open to the public, The Tower House’s exterior and its story captivate architecture enthusiasts and cultural historians alike. Its imposing tower, intricate brickwork, and evocative symbolism invite contemplation of Victorian ideals and the enduring power of architectural storytelling. The house remains a testament to creative vision, artistic dedication, and the layered narratives embedded in built heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Monument
0.3 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Kensington War Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.2 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
George Orwell Plaque
1.3 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.4 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
1.5 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
Mr Mathias Winkler
1.8 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Space Apart Hotel
1.9 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
The Castle
1.9 km
Experience the charm of a traditional British pub at The Castle on Portobello Road, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of London.
The Blue Door Notting Hill Film
1.9 km
Experience the magic of Notting Hill at The Blue Door, an iconic film location surrounded by vibrant streets and culture.
Portobello Road Market
1.9 km
Discover London’s vibrant Portobello Road Market, a historic treasure trove of antiques, vintage fashion, and street food in the heart of Notting Hill.
The Tabernacle
1.9 km
Discover The Tabernacle in Notting Hill, a vibrant community center and performing arts venue showcasing London's rich cultural tapestry.
Speke Monument
2.0 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Brompton Cemetery
2.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Brompton Cemetery, a Victorian landmark in London offering a unique retreat.
Sussex Mansions
2.0 km
Discover the elegance of Sussex Mansions in South Kensington, a charming apartment building near London's best attractions and cultural hotspots.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leighton House
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite Victorian studio-home of Frederic Leighton, where art, architecture, and Orientalist design create a timeless cultural treasure.
the Design Museum
0.2 km
Explore the cutting-edge world of design in London’s iconic museum, where creativity meets culture and innovation shapes everyday life.
Kyoto Garden
0.4 km
A tranquil Japanese garden in London’s Holland Park, gifted by Kyoto to celebrate cultural friendship and seasonal beauty.
Holland Park
0.4 km
Discover Holland Park’s serene gardens, historic charm, and vibrant recreational spaces in the heart of Kensington, London.
Sambourne House
0.4 km
Step into Sambourne House, a Victorian treasure showcasing the art, design, and life of Punch’s celebrated cartoonist in the heart of Kensington.
Olympia Events
0.7 km
Historic Victorian architecture meets cutting-edge event spaces in London’s premier exhibition and entertainment destination.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
0.8 km
A powerful bronze tribute in London’s Holland Park honoring Saint Volodymyr, the 10th-century prince who Christianized Kievan Rus.
Kensington High St
0.9 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
1.0 km
Discover Hillgate Village’s pastel charm, historic roots, and vibrant local life nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London’s bohemian enclave.
The Gate Picturehouse
1.1 km
Discover a century-old Edwardian cinema in Notting Hill with plush interiors, indie films, and a unique cultural atmosphere.
Kensington Palace Green
1.1 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Earl’s Court Police Box
1.1 km
Discover London’s last classic blue police box, a nostalgic landmark blending history, pop culture, and urban policing heritage at Earl’s Court.
Notting Hill Gate
1.2 km
Historic and vibrant Notting Hill Gate Underground Station links three Tube lines beneath a lively West London street.
Ladbroke Square Garden
1.2 km
Historic Ladbroke Square Garden offers a tranquil, private green oasis in the heart of Notting Hill’s elegant 19th-century garden suburb.
Kensington Palace
1.2 km
Discover centuries of royal history and serene gardens at Kensington Palace, a majestic London landmark and former home to British monarchs.
Essential places to dine
Il Portico
0.3 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.8 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.8 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Grato
1.0 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Zuaya London
1.0 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.0 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.0 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
The Shed
1.2 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.4 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Gold
1.5 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
1.7 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.7 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
0.2 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
0.2 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
the Design Museum Shop
0.2 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
0.4 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Good
0.9 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Jigsaw
0.9 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.9 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Notting hill store
1.1 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.2 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.
The gift store
1.2 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Appletree boutique
1.3 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.4 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
1.4 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
1.5 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Prince of Wales
0.9 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.0 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Builders Arms
1.0 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
AMARO BAR - London
1.1 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
1.1 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
Stables Bar
1.2 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.2 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Curtains Up
1.2 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
The Sun In Splendour
1.3 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.4 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.
Naked & Famous Bar
1.5 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
1.5 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.6 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Bar 190
1.6 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ricco London
0.5 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.2 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.
The Duke of Wellington
1.7 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Metric
1.7 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Electric House
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
The Globe
1.9 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
B London
1.9 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Dolce Night Club , London
2.0 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Lost In Disco
2.1 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Subteranian
2.3 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
2.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
4.3 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
4.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Tabu London
4.4 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.
Le Fez
4.4 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
