| Exhibit type | Historical exhibits |
| Attraction type | History & culture, Traditional house experience |
Visitors can explore the opulent Georgian interiors of Apsley House, known as "Number 1 London." It houses a massive collection of over 3,000 paintings and sculptures, including lavish royal gifts. The newly opened basement gallery features rarely seen artwork, and the Inner Hall offers a seating area to browse vintage photo albums of the Duke and his family.
Apsley House is historically renowned as the esteemed London residence of Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington. He made it his primary home after his decisive victory at the Battle of Waterloo, overseeing significant renovations to transform it into the grand estate it is today.
While the duration can vary based on individual interest, most visitors typically spend approximately 1.5 to 2 hours exploring Apsley House. This allows ample time to admire the extensive art collection, explore the opulent interiors, and discover the unique exhibits in the basement gallery.
Apsley House is conveniently located directly opposite Hyde Park Corner tube station, which is served by the Piccadilly Line. Upon exiting the station, the house is just a very short walk of about 2-3 minutes, making it easily accessible via London's underground network.
Apsley House no longer functions as a full-time private residence in the traditional sense. While parts of the house are managed by English Heritage as a public museum, the current Duke of Wellington retains a private apartment within the house, though he primarily resides elsewhere.
Apsley House is managed by English Heritage, which oversees the parts open to the public as a museum. However, ownership of the property remains within the Wellington family, with the current Duke of Wellington retaining certain private areas within the house.
Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, acquired Apsley House in 1817. Following his purchase, he commissioned renowned architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt to carry out extensive renovations and redesigns, shaping the house into the magnificent building seen today.
Apsley House boasts an extraordinary collection of over 3,000 paintings and sculptures, including significant works by artists such as Velázquez and Goya. Notably, it houses lavish gifts received by the Duke from various European emperors and kings, alongside rarely seen artworks in its newly opened basement gallery.