Apsley House: The Duke of Wellington’s London Residence and Historic Treasure
Explore Apsley House, the neoclassical London home of the Duke of Wellington, filled with art, military history, and Regency grandeur at ‘Number One, London.’
Apsley House, located at 149 Piccadilly in London, is a grand neoclassical mansion famously known as ‘Number One, London.’ Once home to Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, it showcases an extensive collection of fine art, military memorabilia, and decorative objects celebrating his victory at the Battle of Waterloo. Managed by English Heritage, the house offers a unique glimpse into Regency-era aristocratic life and Britain’s military history.
A brief summary to Apsley House
- 149 Piccadilly, London, W1J 7NT, GB
- +442074995676
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the Wellington Collection and the historic rooms.
- Look out for the monumental marble statue of Napoleon as Mars the Peacemaker in the main stairwell.
- Check for any special exhibitions or events that may offer deeper insights into the Duke’s life.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Hyde Park Corner station on the Piccadilly Line. From the station, it is a 5-10 minute walk to Apsley House. The station is well-served with frequent trains approximately every 2-5 minutes. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on the travelcard or contactless payment used.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Apsley House, including routes 6, 9, 14, 19, 22, and 38. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. A single fare costs £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card. Buses provide a scenic approach along Piccadilly.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you directly at 149 Piccadilly. Travel time from central London locations typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £10-£20. Note that parking is limited and expensive in the area.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Apsley House is a pleasant option. From Green Park or Hyde Park Corner, it takes approximately 15-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved paths suitable for most mobility levels.
Apsley 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 Apsley House
Origins and Architectural Grandeur
Apsley House was originally constructed between 1771 and 1778 by the renowned architect Robert Adam for Henry Bathurst, 1st Baron Apsley. Situated on Piccadilly at the formal entrance to Hyde Park, it was the first grand house visitors encountered entering London from the west, earning the nickname ‘Number One, London.’ The original design featured a five-bay red brick façade, a spacious entrance hall, and an elegant oval staircase, reflecting neoclassical Georgian style. Later, architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt expanded the house in the early 19th century, adding a three-storey extension with the opulent State Dining Room and the spectacular Waterloo Gallery, which celebrated the Duke’s military triumphs.The Duke of Wellington and His Legacy
Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, purchased the house in 1817 after acquiring it to rescue his brother from bankruptcy. Wellington transformed Apsley House into a palatial London residence befitting his status as a national hero who defeated Napoleon at Waterloo. The house became a symbol of his military and political prestige, hosting grand events such as the annual Waterloo Banquet. The Duke’s personal belongings, military memorabilia, and gifts from European monarchs fill the rooms, offering an intimate portrait of his life and achievements.The Wellington Collection and Artistic Treasures
Apsley House houses the remarkable Wellington Collection, comprising over 3,000 artworks and artifacts. This includes paintings by masters like Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, and Titian, as well as exquisite porcelain, silverware, and military trophies. The Waterloo Gallery is a highlight, adorned with portraits and a centrepiece table crafted from a French cannon captured at Waterloo. A monumental marble statue of Napoleon as Mars the Peacemaker, ironically commissioned by Napoleon himself and gifted to Wellington, dominates the main stairwell, underscoring the house’s rich historical narrative.A Living Museum and Family Residence
Today, Apsley House serves both as a museum open to the public and as the private London home of the current Duke of Wellington. Managed by English Heritage since 2004, the museum showcases Regency interiors and the Duke’s extensive collection. Visitors can explore lavish rooms that blend aristocratic grandeur with personal history, from military artifacts to Wellington’s famous ‘Waterloo teeth’ dentures. The house remains a vibrant testament to Britain’s heritage and the legacy of one of its greatest military leaders.Setting and Cultural Significance
Located opposite Hyde Park Corner and near the Wellington Arch, Apsley House occupies a prestigious site steeped in history. Its presence marks a pivotal point on Piccadilly, once a semi-rural approach to London. The house’s neoclassical façade, grand portico, and richly decorated interiors embody the power and prestige of Regency London society. As a preserved aristocratic townhouse, it offers a rare window into 18th- and 19th-century British history, art, and politics, making it a cultural landmark of national importance.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Walking through Apsley House, visitors encounter a blend of personal and public history. The rooms evoke the life of the Duke and the grandeur of his era, with richly decorated ceilings, sweeping staircases, and a palpable sense of prestige. The collection’s diverse artworks and military memorabilia create a narrative of triumph, diplomacy, and aristocratic life. The house’s atmosphere is both intimate and grand, inviting reflection on the historical forces that shaped modern Britain.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.1 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
0.1 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.
Royal Artillery Memorial
0.1 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.
Wellington Arch
0.1 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.8 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Historic Houses
0.8 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.9 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
Republic of Texas Plaque
1.0 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
St. James's Palace
1.0 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Speakers' Corner
1.0 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Pickering Pl
1.0 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Little Ben Clock
1.0 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
1.0 km
A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.
Beau Brummell Statue
1.0 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Buckingham Palace Rd
1.0 km
Discover the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the iconic residence of the British monarchy, and immerse yourself in royal history and heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hyde Park Corner
0.1 km
Historic crossroads and green sanctuary where London's grand Wellington Arch and war memorials meet serene parkland.
Queen Elizabeth Gate
0.1 km
Explore the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth Gate, a historic entryway to Hyde Park, blending rich heritage with natural beauty in the heart of London.
New Zealand War Memorial
0.1 km
Discover the New Zealand War Memorial at Hyde Park Corner, a poignant tribute to bravery and sacrifice amidst London's historic landscape.
Statue of Achilles
0.1 km
A towering bronze tribute to the Duke of Wellington’s victories, blending classical myth and British history near his famed London home.
Bomber Command Memorial
0.2 km
Discover the Bomber Command Memorial in London's Green Park, a poignant homage to the brave souls of the Royal Air Force during World War II.
Commonwealth Memorial Gates
0.2 km
Explore the Commonwealth Memorial Gates in London, a stunning tribute to the bravery of soldiers from various nations during World Wars I and II.
Curzon Mayfair
0.4 km
Experience London’s premier art-house cinema in a stunning Grade II listed 1960s building, blending cinematic heritage with modern luxury.
Horse & Groom
0.5 km
A charming historic pub tucked away in Belgravia’s cobbled mews, blending traditional hospitality with rich celebrity and cultural heritage.
Shepherd Market
0.5 km
Discover Shepherd Market, a charming historic village in Mayfair blending boutique shops, cozy pubs, and rich London heritage.
Constitution Hill
0.5 km
A historic royal route in London linking Hyde Park Corner with Buckingham Palace, rich in heritage and scenic charm.
Belgrave Square
0.5 km
Belgrave Square: A stately garden square in Belgravia, blending 19th-century elegance with exclusive private gardens and rich diplomatic history.
The Green Park
0.5 km
A tranquil Royal Park in central London offering peaceful lawns, historic memorials, and scenic views near Buckingham Palace.
Park Ln
0.6 km
Prestigious Park Lane in London blends historic grandeur with luxury hotels, upscale shops, and serene Hyde Park views along its iconic 1.1 km stretch.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.6 km
Discover nearly two centuries of exquisite craftsmanship and royal heritage at Thomas Goode & Co, London's premier luxury tableware emporium in Mayfair.
Harvey Nichols
0.6 km
Discover Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge, a historic luxury department store blending cutting-edge fashion, gourmet dining, and iconic London style.
Essential places to dine
The Grenadier
0.3 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.6 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
HIDE
0.6 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
0.6 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The English Grill
0.8 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.8 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Great British Restaurant
0.9 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Quaglino's
1.0 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
1.0 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Golden Lion
1.0 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Mercato Mayfair
1.1 km
Experience diverse global street food in a stunning restored church at the heart of London’s Mayfair district.
Apricity Restaurant
1.1 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
sketch
1.2 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
1.3 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
NOPI
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.2 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
The Queen's Shop
0.7 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Buckingham Palace Shop
0.8 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
Cool Britannia
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
John Lobb St. James
1.0 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
1.0 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Burlington Arcade
1.0 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Knightsbridge
1.0 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where world-class shopping, elegant architecture, and cultural attractions blend seamlessly.
Piccadilly Arcade
1.0 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Cardinal Place
1.0 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Bond St
1.0 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
LONGCHAMP
1.1 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Fortnum & Mason
1.1 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Prestat Chocolates
1.1 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Princes Arcade
1.1 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.6 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The New York Bar
0.8 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Bbar
0.8 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 Red Lion, Mayfair
1.2 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Adam & Eve
1.2 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
All Bar One Victoria
1.2 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
1.3 km
Discover a stylish Mayfair speakeasy blending inventive cocktails, retro charm, and attentive service in London's vibrant Pollen Street scene.
Disrepute - Soho
1.3 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
Cahoots London
1.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.4 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
Blue Boar Pub
1.4 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Two Chairmen
1.4 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
The Argyll Arms
1.5 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
The Thin White Duke
1.5 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Duke of Argyll
1.5 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.8 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
0.9 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.
The Scotch of St James
1.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
1.2 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Carwash Nightclub
1.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Tiger Tiger London
1.5 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
1.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
1.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sunset night club
1.5 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
TSQ Club
1.6 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.
Café de Paris
1.6 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Box Soho
1.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.6 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Sophisticats Soho
1.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Penthouse London
1.7 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
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
- 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
- Myth & Legends
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