London's Historic Houses

Kenwood House. Copyright Britain on View

Creaking doors, dark, spiral staircases and huge portraits hanging from the walls. Did those eyes really move? There's something about historic houses that brings out the child in all of us. Learning about the people who once lived there - and whose ghosts may still stalk the corridors - can be fascinating.

This is particularly true if such historic houses have been cherished and maintained, or carefully renovated and restored, so that their appearance is similar to how it was in times gone by. Whether those that lived there were well-to-do merchants, renowned artists or members of the Royal Family, their stories are waiting to be revealed.

English Heritage

Some of the most intriguing historic houses in the capital belong to English Heritage. A good start for a tour of English Heritage properties would be Apsley House. Otherwise known as "No 1 London", it was the London residence of the first Duke of Wellington. Move on to the stately Kenwood House, on the edge of Hampstead Heath (part of the film Notting Hill was filmed here), and don't miss Eltham Palace, in all its art deco splendour.

Historic Royal Palaces in London

You can uncover the history and heritage of the Royal Family at London's royal palaces. Sparkle with the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London and be impressed by the ceremonial-dress collection at Kensington Palace. Enjoy a lunchtime concert at Banqueting House, and get into character with the costumed guides at Hampton Court Palace.

Leighton House

Leighton House is beautifully preserved and boasts sumptuous interiors. It was the home of the great Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton. There are paintings by Leighton and his contemporaries, including works by John Everett Millais, Edward Burne-Jones and George Frederick Watts.

The National Trust

Like English Heritage, the National Trust owns a collection of remarkable historic houses in London. Fenton House, for example, is a 17th century merchant's residence with a pretty, walled garden. Osterley House boasts Neoclassical architecture, while the 18th century Carlyle's House in Chelsea is the former home of historian and philosopher Thomas Carlyle. Here he hosted guests such as George Eliot and Charles Dickens.

Spencer House

Named after John, 1st Earl Spencer – an ancestor of the late Diana, Princess of Wales – who commissioned its building in 1756, Spencer House is an impressive private palace in St James's. You can take a guided tour of the restored premises. It's a fine place to while away a day and marvel at the splendid views over Green Park..