Interesting Facts About Admiralty Arch

When embarking on our Changing of the Guard and Westminster Tour, Admiralty Arch is just one of the notable pieces of architecture that you’ll encounter on the way. Though you won’t see inside Admiralty Arch, there’s a lot to unpack about the building that sets it apart from other world famous monuments. From Admiralty Arch history to its stunning construction, there’s so much to discover about the Admiralty Arch address. So, we’re clear that the Admiralty Arch interior is remarkable, and that the location is rich in history. What else can be learnt about this extraordinary structure via our tours?

The Mall Predates Buckingham Palace

As the Queen’s most recognised London-based place of residence, it’s often assumed that Buckingham Palace is one of the oldest pieces of architecture that the capital has to offer. Despite this, The Mall, which is London’s major processional route, predates Buckingham Palace. Today, The Mall connects the Palace to Trafalgar Square; however, its initial purpose was to be a simple walk in the park.

This sets London apart from other classical capitals such as St Petersburg, Paris, and Rome, as these cities are built upon grand avenues and ceremonial routes. Meanwhile, The Mall is an expression of a time in which Britain was the capital of the largest empire in the world, and all of this was solidified via the building of Admiralty Arch.

So, when was Admiralty Arch built? The arch was completed in 1912 as a symbolic triumphal arch.

Admiralty Arch is More than a Monument

When considering the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Arch of Constantine in Rome, these triumphal arches can be more accurately described as monuments rather than architecture. This is because they’re not designed to accommodate people, and their purpose is to embody victory.

On the contrary, Admiralty Arch was required to do more than impress onlookers. It was a house, an office, and a gate that was only to be used by royalty. Today, it’s set to take on more and more responsibilities. As one of the most central, familiar, remarkable, and unusual monuments, the building is to be turned into apartments and a hotel.

A World-Renowned Architect Built Admiralty Arch

Sir Aston Webb, the builder of Admiralty Arch, contributed to much more than Admiralty Arch. In fact, he was the designer of London’s V&A, Hong Kong’s Supreme Court, and Dublin’s Government Buildings. Similarly, he was also the architect of the new frontage for Buckingham Palace, including the Victoria Memorial.

The Ground Beneath The Mall is a Warren of Secret Tunnels

We’ve all heard about supposed secret underground tunnels that run throughout London; however, the ground beneath The Mall is actually a warren of secret tunnels, passages, and bunkers. The passage is said to connect Admiralty Arch to 10 Downing Street, which is upwards of half a mile away. Additionally, there are remains of vaults that once housed government archives, including files from Margaret Thatcher’s time.

Admiralty Arch Was Once the Residence of Winston Churchill and Earl Mountbatten

As previously mentioned, Admiralty Arch is much more than a monument, acting as a dwelling. Some of the most notable names to take up residence in Admiralty Arch include Winston Churchill and Earl Mountbatten, a British naval officer, colonial administrator, and relative of the British royal family.

James Bond Was Born by Admiralty Arch

We know what you’re thinking, James Bond isn’t a real person, but Ian Fleming was said to have come up with his James Bond plots in and around Admiralty Arch. At the time, Fleming was working in naval intelligence at the Admiralty next door. So, from these famous British residents to beloved English characters, it’s no wonder that Admiralty Arch is believed to represent the heart of London.

The Admiralty Arch Nose

Last but not least, we must touch the nose of Admiralty Arch. On the inside of the wall of the northernmost arch, you’ll find a small protrusion, the size, and shape of a human nose. This was installed in 1997 by the artist Rick Buckley and was a response to the “Big Brother” society that was said to be forming in Britain. The nose sits around seven feet above the ground, which is around waist height for anyone riding a horse.

Discover Admiralty Arch on a Changing of the Guard and Westminster Tour

Admiralty Arch is just one of the many landmarks that you’ll encounter on our Changing of the Guard and Westminster Tour. Read more about our private tours here or book a slot on one of our standard tours.

We look forward to welcoming you and taking you on a journey in which you can discover the royal city of Westminster in all its glory. So, pull up Admiralty Arch on your London map and join us today.