Ever strolled south-west along Piccadilly to Hyde Park Corner and noticed the rather regal building facing out onto Wellington Arch?
It’s called Apsley House, was home to the 1st Duke of Wellington for years, but also lays claim to having the address ‘Number 1, London’.
The original house was built on the site in 1778, for Lord Apsley. Being in Hyde Park, the lease for the land was negotiated from the Crown Estate, and the house was the first one on the north side of Piccadilly. At the time, it was next to the main turnpike or toll into central London at Knightsbridge, so became known as ‘Number 1, London’ — because it was the first house you came to once you entered London.
The modern house differs significantly from the original red-brick house built in the 1770s. In 1819, Wellington added a three-storey extension to the north-east, encompassing a state dining room, new bedrooms and dressing rooms. 10 years later when the Duke of Wellington became Prime Minister, he further added a new staircase and the Waterloo Gallery on the west front.
His nickname the ‘Iron Duke’ had nothing to do with his strength on the battlefield, but the iron shutters his fitted on Apsley House’s windows, as protection against rioters. (He was also nicknamed “Nosey” because of his prominent hooter.)
The property’s official address today is 149 Piccadilly, Hyde Park Corner, London, W1J 7NT, but rumours still abound that if you post a letter to ‘Number 1, London’ it will reach this address. If you decide to do it, let us know if you get a reply.
Today, Apsley House is a Grade I listed building, owned and managed by English Heritage and open to the public. Check website for prices and opening times.
