Landmark
Known as 'Number One, London' for its position as the first house travellers reached after passing the old Knightsbridge tollgate, Apsley House was the London residence of the Duke of Wellington after his victory at Waterloo, and it still displays paintings, silver and memorabilia gifted or captured during the Napoleonic Wars, including pieces from Napoleon's own collection. Reviewers with a 4.6 rating describe an intimate, art-rich museum experience that benefits from being paired with an English Heritage membership if visiting multiple sites. Its position right by Wellington Arch and Hyde Park Corner makes it easy to combine into a compact Napoleonic War-themed morning.
✨ Reasons to go
💡 Good to know
⏱️ Typical visit
1h
🕰️ Best time
morning, lunchtime or afternoon
🚶 Walking intensity
Moderate walking
What people say
"A marvel in the middle of London! I went today to visit with my husband, and what a joy ✨️ an elegant house full of beautiful art. One of the very few remaining aristocratic homes in London. Must See ArtworksAntonio Canova's colossal nude statue of Napoleon (as Mars the Peacemaker)a 3.45m tall marble sculpture at the foot of the grand staircase originally commissioned by Napoleon himself, but captured and given to Wellington. It's one of the most striking and iconic pieces in the house. The "Spanish Gift" paintings .Around 83 Spanish royal collection works (originally looted by Joseph Bonaparte and recovered by Wellington), including masterpieces by Diego Velázquez ( The Waterseller of Seville, Portrait of a Gentleman) Francisco Goya Titian, Rubens, Correggio, Murillo, Brueghel, and others These hang throughout the state rooms and are a major draw for art lovers. The Waterloo Shield! magnificent silver gilt presentation shield honoring Wellington's victory.Porcelains (like the Deccan dinner service), silverware, busts (including Canova works), military orders, swords, and gifts from emperors, tsars, and kings. My favourite was Yellow Drawing Room (or Yellow Room)one of the most elegant and beautiful. Original Adam fireplace, Wyatt interiors, delicate ornamentation, pier glasses, and artworks (including a Canova bust). I'm so happy that I went. I couldn't have left London without seeing this beautiful home. Every room is more beautiful than the last, with so much to see. If you are in London, do not miss this gem . It's near the Hilton hotel and easy to get to by bus or underground."
— Elena
