Apsley House is a very popular and fascinating attraction based in England's capital city of London. One of the finest residences in London, this property was home to the first Duke of Wellington, and because it was the first property that you came across as you passed the toll gate from the countryside into London it became known as 'Number One, London'. For those that like to explore history, culture, and the arts, Apsley House is a fabulous place to visit, with plenty of fascinating exhibitions and sites to explore.
Inside Apsley House you will find a fine collection belonging to the Duke, and this includes porcelain, silver, paintings, sculptures, and furniture. Restored between 1992 and 1995, you will find the collections in Apsley House both intact and fascinating. The property was built between 1771 and 1778 by Robert Adam. It was bought by the Duke of Wellington in 1817, and it was then extended by the Duke, with the fabulous Waterloo Gallery - a ninety foot long gallery - being added for the Duke's fine collection.
The Duke of Wellington was a successful military man, and received gifts from royalty and nobility from all around the world. Many of these gifts, such as paintings and sculptures, form part of the exhibitions at Apsley House. Among the items that are exhibited at Apsley House you will find a huge nude statue of Napoleon, a great collection of paintings and artwork, a variety of dinner and dessert services that were used for entertaining, and exquisite furniture.
Apsley House was not used as a main family residence for the Duke and his family, but rather as a place for the duke to meet and entertain VIP guests - as well as a place that would reflect his success and power. The grand state rooms can be found on the ground floor of Apsley House, with smaller rooms on the first floor, and the quarters of the Duke on the third floor. The house was gifted to the nation in the late 1940s, and is today maintained as part of a rich English heritage, with both unguided and guided tours available.
Apsley House is an absolute must for your itinerary if you enjoy combining exploration with rich history, fascinating culture, and fine arts. You can learn a great deal about the property, its history, and the collections within by taking a tour, particularly if you opt for a guided tour, where you can learn much more about this attraction. In 2001 Apsley House was voted the best small visitor attraction by the London Tourist Board, and was a great hit among tourists.
Located at Hyde Park Corner, this is an attraction that is easy to reach and is a great place for people of all ages. As well as being entertaining and fascinating, this is a place that is also educational. You will also find that this is a very reasonably priced attraction, and a good choice for those that enjoy looking at fascinating architectural treasures.
Why not make mini break of it when you visit Aspley House and stay at one of the local reasonably priced hotels? It's a common misconception there are no cheap hotels in London. Excellent hotels are available any time of year at great prices.
