The Tower House: William Burges’ Victorian Gothic Masterpiece in London
Discover The Tower House, William Burges’ iconic Victorian Gothic Revival home, a masterpiece of architectural artistry and rich symbolism in London.
The Tower House, located at 29 Melbury Road in London’s Kensington and Chelsea, is a striking late-Victorian townhouse designed and built by architect William Burges as his personal residence. Completed between 1875 and 1881 in the French Gothic Revival style, it is renowned for its richly symbolic interiors, intricate craftsmanship, and distinctive cylindrical tower. Now a Grade I listed building, it stands as a testament to Victorian architectural artistry and Burges’ vision.
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
- 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
- Though The Tower House is a private residence and not open for public tours, admire its striking exterior from Melbury Road and explore the surrounding Holland Park neighborhood.
- Visit nearby museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum to see original furniture and decorative pieces designed by Burges for The Tower House.
- Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate architectural details and vibrant materials of the house’s facade.
- Combine your visit with a walk around the artistic Kensington and Chelsea area, historically home to prominent Victorian artists and architects.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Holland Park station, approximately 15-20 minutes walk from The Tower House. The route is mostly flat but includes some residential streets. No entrance fee; tube fare ranges from £2.50 to £6 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 27, 28, and 31 serve Melbury Road area with stops within 5-10 minutes walk. Buses run frequently during the day but less so in evenings. Single fare costs around £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Ideal for visitors with limited mobility. Estimated fare £10-£20.
The Tower House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Tower House
An Architectural Vision Realized
The Tower House was conceived and designed by William Burges, one of the foremost architects of the Victorian Gothic Revival, as his own home. Constructed between 1875 and 1881, the house occupies a compact footprint of just over 50 feet square but commands attention with its bold geometrical forms and distinctive cylindrical tower capped by a conical roof. Built from London red brick with Bath stone dressings and Cumberland green slate roofs, the exterior embodies a robust yet elegant simplicity. The tower, a focal point on Melbury Road in the Holland Park district, recalls medieval fortifications and echoes Burges’ earlier work at Castell Coch near Cardiff. The building’s Grade I listing since 1949 recognizes its architectural and historic significance.Interiors Rich in Symbolism and Craftsmanship
Inside, The Tower House reveals a treasure trove of High Victorian craftsmanship and artistic detail. Burges and his team of skilled craftsmen designed not only the architecture but also the interiors, including furniture, metalwork, and decorative elements. Each principal room was given a thematic identity, such as time, love, and literature, woven together through symbolic motifs and narratives drawn from medieval, classical, and literary sources. The house features mosaics depicting mythological scenes, stained glass windows illustrating medieval tales, and intricately carved capitals and lintels inspired by ancient civilizations. The interior was described by architectural historian J. Mordaunt Crook as the most complete example of a medieval secular interior produced by the Gothic Revival.Legacy and Restoration
After Burges’ death in 1881, The Tower House passed through several owners and periods of neglect. It suffered vandalism and decay during the mid-20th century until preservation efforts began in the 1960s. Lady Jane Turnbull initiated restoration with support from heritage bodies, followed by ownership by actor Richard Harris, who believed the house was haunted, and later musician Jimmy Page, who continues to reside there. Much of the original furniture and decorative pieces have been preserved and are displayed in museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and The Higgins Art Gallery. The house remains a symbol of Victorian artistic ambition and the integration of architecture and decorative arts.The House in Its Cultural Context
Situated in a neighborhood once home to prominent Victorian artists and intellectuals, The Tower House reflects the era’s fascination with medievalism and the Gothic Revival. Burges’ approach combined historical references with personal symbolism, creating a residence that was both a private sanctuary and a public statement of artistic ideals. The house’s design influenced contemporaries and remains a key example of Victorian domestic architecture that transcends mere functionality to become a work of art.Architectural Features and Symbolism
The Tower House’s exterior is marked by its asymmetry and the interplay of geometric shapes—triangles, cubes, and cones—that give it a fortress-like appearance. The cylindrical staircase tower serves as a visual anchor, while the roof is adorned with lead gargoyles and weather vanes bearing Burges’ personal symbols, such as a mermaid and a menaced heart. A convex mirror set in the garden gable catches the setting sun’s rays, adding a poetic touch. Inside, the furniture and fittings are richly decorated with painted and carved motifs, telling stories and embodying Burges’ belief in the unity of art and architecture.Experience and Atmosphere Today
Though a private residence, The Tower House’s exterior remains a captivating sight for visitors to Holland Park. Its vivid red brick, distinctive tower, and Gothic details stand out amid the elegant Victorian streetscape. The house’s layered history—from its creation by a visionary architect to its restoration by passionate owners—adds depth to its presence. It embodies a world where architecture, art, and storytelling merge, inviting admiration and reflection on Victorian creativity and craftsmanship.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
- Historic
- Unique
- Scenic
- Tranquil
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
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- 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
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
