Marlborough House

Categories: Historic houses in London | Royal buildings in London | Political London | Westminster | British Royal Residences

Marlborough House is a mansion in Westminster, London. It was built for Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough, a close friend of Queen Anne. The Duchess wanted her new house to be "strong, plain and convenient". Designed by Christopher Wren, both father and son, the building was completed in 1711.

In the 19th century the house was substantially enlarged and used by members of the Royal Family. From 1863 until he became King Edward VII in 1901, it was the home of the Prince and Princess of Wales. During this period Marlborough House became the social centre of London.

An Art Nouveau memorial in the Marlborough Road wall of the house commemorates Alexandra, Edward's queen.

In 1936 Malborough House became the London residence of the Queen Dowager, Queen Mary, widow of King George V. Following Mary's death in 1953 Queen Elizabeth II donated it for use by the Commonwealth Secretariat, which continues to use it today.

Malborough House is usually open to the public for Open House Weekend each September.

External links

• Map sources
• The Commonwealth Secretariat