Leighton House in Holland Park, London W14, is an extraordinary place to visit. Once the home of Frederic Leighton, a celebrated Victorian artist and President of the Royal Academy, this house is a masterpiece of design, blending rich artistic influences from across Europe and the Middle East. Every corner reflects his passion for art and travel, making it an unmissable destination for those interested in Victorian interiors. Alongside its grand rooms, visitors can enjoy the peaceful garden and a charming café, which enhances the experience. Leighton House is a must-visit if you’re looking for galleries in West London, historic houses, fascinating museums or the best things to do in Holland Park.
Leighton House Museum Highlights
The journey begins at the entrance, where a gift shop and café greet visitors. From this point, the garden is accessible, providing a tranquil space to pause before stepping into Leighton’s opulence.
Downstairs, an introductory film offers context for his life and work, while the Leighton and Landscape exhibition currently provides insight into how nature influenced his art.
As you move through the house, the first impression is one of grandeur, established by what was once the morning room. Later remodelled into the entrance hall, this space showcases the house’s distinctive blend of classical and exotic design.
Beyond it, the staircase hall ascends dramatically, inspired by the grand palazzos of Venice. The sweeping stairs rise, flanked by artworks and artefacts collected worldwide, suggesting the eclectic treasures within.
Beyond the staircase, a small yet striking space called Narcissus Hall captures attention with its deep blue tiles. Named after the mythological figure who fell in love with his reflection, this area possesses an ethereal quality, with its glossy surfaces creating a sense of movement and depth.
One of the most breathtaking rooms comes soon after. The Arab Hall is the undisputed jewel of the house, inspired by Leighton’s travels in North Africa and the Middle East. Its walls are adorned with dazzling tiles, many sourced from Damascus, while golden mosaics shimmer in the soft light. A central fountain adds a soothing presence, completing an atmosphere entirely separate from the rest of Victorian London. This space encapsulates Leighton’s fascination with Islamic design and his desire to create a harmonious and immersive environment.
Tucked away in Leighton’s private suite, the silk room contrasts the vast, decorative spaces elsewhere. Lined with richly coloured fabrics and showcasing a selection of paintings, this intimate room reflects his refined aesthetic and appreciation for texture.
While part of the same suite, the adjoining bedroom is surprisingly modest. This simple, almost austere space offers a glimpse into Leighton’s solitary nature in a house meant for artistic display and grandeur.
Further into the house, the library boasts an impressive collection of books, many acquired when Leighton became President of the Royal Academy. This elegant space reflects his intellectual pursuits, serving as a quiet retreat within a house filled with creative energy.
The dining room reminds us of his social life, which is not far from here. Here, he entertained artists, writers, and patrons. Paintings by his contemporaries adorn the walls, making it easy to envision lively discussions over dinner shaped by art, culture, and the changing world outside.
The most spectacular workspace is undoubtedly the studio, a vast, double-height room filled with natural light from an enormous north-facing window. Designed as a functional area and a symbol of artistic success, it features a magnificent domed apse that enhances its grandeur. Here, Leighton painted some of his most celebrated works, surrounded by richly decorated furnishings and sources of inspiration.
A smaller, secondary space, the winter studio, offered a more intimate environment for work during the colder months, ensuring that creativity could continue year-round.
A visit concludes with a stop at the café, where soups, sandwiches, cakes, and afternoon tea offer a final moment of indulgence. The peaceful setting makes it easy to linger, reflecting on the grandeur and vision that make Leighton House so unique.
The Holland Park Circle
Beyond its walls, the house deeply connects to the artistic community of Holland Park Circle, comprised of Victorian painters and sculptors who constructed grand studio homes on the surrounding streets. Many of them hosted open-house exhibitions, fostering a vibrant creative enclave. Only three of these studio houses remain today, with Leighton House being the only one open to the public. A booklet available during visits offers further insight into this fascinating period of London’s artistic history.
Helpful Information About Visiting Leighton House
Located at 12 Holland Park Road, London W14 8LZ, the house is easily accessible from the Kensington (Olympia) and High Street Kensington stations. It is open from Wednesday to Monday, 10.00 am to 5.30 pm, with the last entry at 4.30 pm. Visitors are welcomed for £14 per adult, with concessions available. A joint ticket provides access to nearby Sambourne House, another beautifully preserved Victorian home, for a rewarding cultural exploration day. Full details can be found on the Leighton House website.
If you want to explore the area, you may find this article of interest:
Seven Reasons To Visit Kensington High Street
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.
