3 Carlton House Terrace: Historic London Townhouse of Distinction
Elegant Regency townhouse on historic royal grounds, blending London’s aristocratic past with modern prestige.
3 Carlton House Terrace is a distinguished Grade I listed townhouse in London’s St James’s district, designed by Decimus Burton and completed in the early 19th century. Situated on the site of the former Carlton House, the residence reflects Regency elegance and has served varied roles from aristocratic home to intelligence service quarters. Today, it stands as a symbol of London’s architectural heritage and elite residential history.
A brief summary to 3 Carlton House Terrace
- 3 Carlton House Terrace, London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Luxury
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Appreciate the architectural details of the Regency façade and its harmonious integration with the terrace.
- Explore nearby landmarks such as the Duke of York’s Column and St James’s Park for a fuller historical context.
- Note the building’s intriguing history as a former MI6 recruitment site during the post-WWII era.
- Consider the significance of Carlton House Terrace in London’s social and architectural evolution.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly or Victoria Line to Green Park Station, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk through St James’s Park to reach 3 Carlton House Terrace. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and fares range from £2.50 to £6 depending on the ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes including numbers 9, 11, and 24 stop near The Mall or Pall Mall, approximately a 5-minute walk from 3 Carlton House Terrace. Buses run regularly throughout the day with an adult single fare of £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £10-£20. Note that parking is extremely limited in the area.
3 Carlton House Terrace location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about 3 Carlton House Terrace
Legacy of Carlton House and Its Transformation
3 Carlton House Terrace occupies a prestigious site with a rich history rooted in the former Carlton House, once the opulent London residence of George IV when he was Prince Regent. Carlton House was renowned for its extravagant remodeling and social prominence in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. However, deemed inadequate by George IV upon his accession, the original building was demolished in 1826 to make way for the elegant terraces that now bear its name. The current terrace was designed by John Nash and Decimus Burton between 1827 and 1833, replacing the royal palace with refined townhouses intended for London's elite.Architectural Excellence by Decimus Burton
Number 3 Carlton House Terrace is a prime example of Decimus Burton’s architectural mastery. The townhouse features a classic Regency façade with white stucco, balanced proportions, and a balustraded first-floor balcony. Its design harmonizes with the adjoining terraces and the surrounding urban fabric, framing views of St James’s Park and The Mall. The building’s three main storeys plus attic and formal private gardens reflect the grandeur expected of a premier London residence. Its Grade I listing underscores its architectural and historic importance.Distinguished Residents and Roles Through Time
Over the centuries, 3 Carlton House Terrace has housed notable figures including diarist Charles Arbuthnot and aristocrats such as Viscount Tredegar. In the 20th century, it played a covert role as MI6’s Section Y headquarters, interviewing recruits after World War II. The building’s secretive past contrasts with its stately exterior, adding layers to its narrative. More recently, it has been a private residence of significant value, reflecting London’s high-end property market and historic preservation.Setting and Urban Context
Situated at the west end of Carlton House Terrace in the St James’s district, Number 3 enjoys a prime location near iconic landmarks including the Duke of York’s Column and The Mall. The terrace forms a monumental civic backdrop to one of London’s most ceremonial avenues, contributing to the area’s distinguished character. The proximity to royal parks and government buildings enhances its prestige and cultural significance within the city.Preservation and Cultural Significance
Despite challenges over the decades, including proposals for redevelopment, 3 Carlton House Terrace remains a well-preserved emblem of Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage. Its survival reflects broader efforts to protect historic urban environments. The building’s elegant design and storied past continue to captivate historians, architects, and visitors interested in London’s layered history.Modern Prestige and Private Ownership
In recent years, 3 Carlton House Terrace has been extensively renovated and is considered one of London’s most valuable private residences. Its blend of historic charm and modern luxury exemplifies the city’s ability to merge heritage with contemporary living. The property’s high-profile sales highlight its status within the global elite real estate market, maintaining its legacy as a symbol of exclusivity and refinement.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
3 Carlton House Terrace
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Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.1 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.1 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
St James's Square
0.2 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.2 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.3 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Captain James Cook
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Guards Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Pickering Pl
0.3 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Admiralty Arch
0.3 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Old Admiralty Building
0.3 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
St. James's Palace
0.3 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.4 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
16-18 Whitehall
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Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Charles De Gaulle Statue
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A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
Carlton House Terrace
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Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Pall Mall
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Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.1 km
Honoring Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, the Defender of London during WWII’s Battle of Britain, through a striking bronze statue in central London.
Duke of York Column
0.1 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
The Mall
0.2 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
Waterloo Pl
0.2 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
The Queen's Chapel
0.3 km
Discover the elegant 17th-century Palladian chapel beside St. James’s Palace, steeped in royal history and architectural refinement.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.3 km
Experience London's historic His Majesty's Theatre, home to iconic musicals and timeless theatrical heritage in the vibrant Haymarket district.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
0.3 km
A serene 7-mile circular walk through London's Royal Parks, honoring Princess Diana’s life, legacy, and connection to iconic royal landmarks.
Christie's London
0.3 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
St James's Park
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London’s oldest Royal Park, a serene green oasis with iconic palace views, historic charm, and a famous pelican colony in the city center.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.3 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite selection of wines at Berry Bros. & Rudd, London's historic wine shop and event venue.
Theatre Royal Haymarket
0.3 km
Historic West End theatre with rich traditions, elegant design, and acclaimed productions in London’s vibrant Haymarket district.
Essential places to dine
Wild Honey St James
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Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Golden Lion
0.3 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Great British Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Quaglino's
0.4 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.5 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.5 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Kricket Soho
0.6 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Evelyn's Table
0.6 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
The Garden
0.6 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.6 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Bantof
0.7 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Mele e Pere
0.7 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Blacklock Soho
0.7 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
J Sheekey
0.7 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
John Lobb St. James
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Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Floris London
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Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Crest of London Ltd
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Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Princes Arcade
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A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Piccadilly Arcade
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Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Fortnum & Mason
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Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
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Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Burlington Arcade
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Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
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Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
M&M'S London
0.6 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Cool Britania
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Unique Britain
0.7 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.7 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
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Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.4 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
0.5 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
All Bar One Leicester Square
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Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.5 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Two Chairmen
0.6 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
0.6 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Thin White Duke
0.7 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.7 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.7 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.7 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Duke of Argyll
0.7 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Blue Boar Pub
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Blind Spot London
0.7 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Ku Bar
0.7 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Adam & Eve
0.7 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.3 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.
The Scotch of St James
0.3 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Luxe Club
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Cuckoo Club
0.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Penthouse London
0.6 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tabu London
0.6 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 Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.6 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.6 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.
Heaven
0.7 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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.7 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.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.7 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
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.
The Box Soho
0.8 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage 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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly