Carlton House Terrace: London's Regal Georgian Landmark
A majestic Georgian terrace in London, built on royal grounds with rich history and timeless architectural elegance.
Carlton House Terrace is a distinguished Grade I listed Georgian terrace in London, designed by John Nash and built between 1827 and 1833 on the site of the former Carlton House, once the lavish residence of the Prince Regent, later King George IV. The terrace comprises elegant white stucco-faced townhouses overlooking The Mall and St James’s Park, blending architectural grandeur with rich historical significance, including associations with British aristocracy, political figures, and wartime roles.
A brief summary to Carlton House Terrace
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to enjoy tranquil views of The Mall and St James’s Park without crowds.
- Explore the British Academy at Nos. 10-11 to see preserved interiors and attend cultural events.
- Look for architectural details like the black marble staircase and classical stucco façades.
- Combine your visit with a walk through nearby historic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Charing Cross station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Carlton House Terrace. Frequent services run on the Northern and Bakerloo lines. Expect a total travel time of 30-45 minutes from central London hubs. No direct parking is available nearby.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near The Mall and Trafalgar Square, including routes 9, 11, and 24. From these stops, expect a 5-10 minute walk to the terrace. Buses run frequently during the day, with fares around £1.75 per single journey using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Note that The Mall and surrounding roads may have restrictions or congestion charges. Estimated fare ranges from £10 to £20.
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 Carlton House Terrace
From Royal Residence to Architectural Masterpiece
Carlton House Terrace stands on the historic grounds of the former Carlton House, the opulent London home of George IV during his tenure as Prince Regent. Originally an aristocratic townhouse rented by Baron Carleton in the early 18th century, the property passed through noble hands before being granted to George, Prince of Wales, in 1783. The prince extensively expanded and lavishly remodeled Carlton House, creating a social hub rivaling the royal court. However, upon ascending the throne in 1820, George IV deemed Carlton House inadequate and relocated to Buckingham Palace. The original Carlton House was demolished in 1826, with some architectural elements repurposed for London's National Gallery.John Nash’s Vision and the Terrace’s Construction
Between 1827 and 1833, architect John Nash designed and oversaw the construction of Carlton House Terrace on the cleared site. The terrace consists of two elegant white stucco-faced blocks separated by the Duke of York’s Column, intended as a grand backdrop to St James’s Park and The Mall. Nash’s design drew inspiration from the Place de la Concorde in Paris, featuring classical proportions and refined detailing. Despite Nash’s ambitions to profit from leasing the houses, the project was more a legacy of urban grandeur than financial success. The terrace quickly became one of London’s most fashionable addresses, admired for its impressive scale and architectural finesse.Notable Residents and Social History
The houses of Carlton House Terrace have hosted a distinguished roster of occupants. Numbers 10 and 11, now home to the British Academy, were once residences of the Ridley family, Lord Monson, the Duke of Norfolk, and Prime Minister William Gladstone, who held Cabinet meetings there. During World War I, No. 10 was converted into a hospital for wounded officers, reflecting the terrace’s role in national service. The Guinness family later leased No. 11, and the buildings have also housed clubs, learned societies, and government offices, including the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Foreign Press Association. The terrace’s rich social tapestry embodies London’s evolving aristocratic, political, and cultural life.Architectural Features and Preservation
Carlton House Terrace is recognized as a Grade I listed site, placing it among the top 2% of protected buildings in the UK. The terrace’s white stucco façades, grand porticos, and classical detailing exemplify Regency-era elegance. Interior features include a notable black marble staircase with a bronze balustrade at No. 10, installed in the early 20th century, and richly corniced ceilings. Despite some wartime damage, much of the Edwardian interior survives. The terrace’s architectural significance is enhanced by its setting overlooking The Mall and St James’s Park, creating a harmonious urban landscape that balances stately grandeur with scenic greenery.Modern Use and Cultural Legacy
Today, Carlton House Terrace serves primarily institutional and cultural functions, with the British Academy occupying Nos. 10 and 11. The buildings have been carefully restored and adapted, including the addition of a modern auditorium and linked spaces for events. The terrace remains a symbol of London’s Regency heritage and aristocratic history, frequently referenced in literature and drama, such as Oscar Wilde’s "Lady Windermere’s Fan." Its proximity to key landmarks and royal parks makes it a serene yet prestigious urban enclave.Enduring Symbolism and Urban Context
Carlton House Terrace encapsulates the transformation of royal London from private palaces to public grandeur. Its development marked a shift in urban planning, linking Regent’s Park to central London via Regent Street and The Mall. The terrace’s elegant façades and historic associations continue to evoke the Regency era’s cultural vibrancy and architectural ambition. As part of the Crown Estate, it remains under stewardship that preserves its heritage while supporting contemporary use, offering visitors a tangible connection to London’s royal and civic past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.0 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.1 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.1 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.2 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.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.2 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Captain James Cook
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
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.
Admiralty Arch
0.2 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Old Admiralty Building
0.2 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
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.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.3 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
16-18 Whitehall
0.3 km
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.
Nelson's Column
0.3 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.4 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.4 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Duke of York Column
0.0 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.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.0 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.
Waterloo Pl
0.1 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
Carlton Gardens
0.1 km
Elegant Regency architecture and serene gardens meet rich wartime history in the heart of London’s prestigious Carlton Gardens.
Pall Mall
0.2 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.2 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.2 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
0.2 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
Theatre Royal Haymarket
0.2 km
Historic West End theatre with rich traditions, elegant design, and acclaimed productions in London’s vibrant Haymarket district.
Canada House
0.3 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
The Mall
0.3 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
Haymarket
0.3 km
Step into the Theatre Royal Haymarket, a historic West End jewel blending Georgian elegance with three centuries of theatrical brilliance.
Wonderville
0.3 km
Discover Wonderville, London’s captivating cabaret club blending magic, comedy, and variety in an intimate West End setting near Piccadilly Circus.
The Fourth Plinth
0.3 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Comedy Carnival Leicester Square
0.3 km
Experience London’s top unapologetic stand-up comedy club with award-winning international acts in an intimate, lively setting near Leicester Square.
Essential places to dine
Wild Honey St James
0.1 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Golden Lion
0.4 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.4 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.
Quaglino's
0.5 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Great British Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Kricket Soho
0.5 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
The Garden
0.5 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.5 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
J Sheekey
0.6 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.6 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Bantof
0.6 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Blacklock Soho
0.6 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Mele e Pere
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Floris London
0.4 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.4 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
Prestat Chocolates
0.4 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
John Lobb St. James
0.5 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Princes Arcade
0.5 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Fortnum & Mason
0.5 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.5 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.5 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.6 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.
Unique Britain
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.3 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
0.4 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.6 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.6 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
The Thin White Duke
0.6 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Ku Bar
0.6 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.6 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
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.
Duke of Argyll
0.6 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.6 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.7 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.2 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
0.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 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.
The Cuckoo Club
0.6 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Heaven
0.6 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.
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.
Tabu London
0.7 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.
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.
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.
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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.7 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.
The Box Soho
0.7 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Ivy Club
0.8 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Classic Georgian
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- 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
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
