Wellington Arch

Take the lift within this famous landmark to gain wonderful views over Royal London from the balconies.

Set in the heart of the capital at Hyde Park corner opposite Apsley House, Wellington Arch is one of London's most iconic monuments. It is crowned by the largest bronze sculpture in Europe depicting the angel of peace descending on the 'Quadriga' — or four-horsed chariot of war.

On the first floor within the arch you'll discover a display revealing its fascinating and sometimes surprising story. Despite its air of immovably changeless grandeur, the appearance and the siting of Wellington Arch have altered since it was erected in 1825–27.

Intended as a grandOuter entrance to Buckingham Palace, it was originally aligned with the Hyde Park screen. It later take on the role of the victory arch proclaiming wellingtons triumph over Napoleon. In eighteen forty-six a colossal equestrian bronze statue of Wellington was added to the top sparking furious controversy. Though many condemned this as ugly and disproportionate Wellington himself steadfastly blocked proposals to remove it.

By 1883 however the sitting of the Arch was causing serious traffic bottlenecks so it was removed stone by stone some 20 meters (60 feet) to its current position. London smallest police station was installed in its northern pillar, and a controversial Wellington statue was finally taken down. It was replaced in 1912 by the present great bronze sculpture, the work of Adrian Jones, a former army veterinary captain with an unrivalled understanding of horse anatomy.

The balcony is just below the sculpture offer you glorious panoramas over the royal parks and the Houses of Parliament. It's a unique spot from which to view the Household Cavalry passing beneath to and from the Changing of the Guard at the Horse Guards Parade.