Apsley House

Apsley House stands alone at Hyde Park Corner, facing the Wellington Arch. Designed by Robert Adam in the 1770s, it is a Grade I listed neoclassical townhouse built for Lord Apsley. The house was later purchased by Richard Wellesley and passed to his brother Arthur, the first Duke of Wellington, in 1817. It was once known as Number One, London, as it was the first grand house encountered by travellers entering the city. The building is the only preserved example of an English aristocratic townhouse from this period. The house serves as the Wellington Museum, housing the Wellington Collection. This includes paintings, artworks and memorabilia from the first Duke’s career, including items from the Battle of Waterloo. The 9th Duke retains a private apartment on the ground floor, while the public rooms remain largely unchanged from the first Duke’s time. The Waterloo Gallery, added in 1828, was designed to host annual banquets commemorating the Duke’s victory, seating up to 74 guests. Visitors find the grand Waterloo Gallery with its French-inspired interiors and ornate stair-rail. The Piccadilly Drawing Room and Portico Room retain Adam’s original neoclassical design. Outside, the Duke’s equestrian statue overlooks the busy road, flanked by infantrymen. The house’s red-brick exterior was later clad in Bath stone, adding to its imposing presence. The gates and railings are also Grade I listed, reflecting the building’s historical significance.