A grand London townhouse with aristocratic roots, now serving as the official residence of the Russian Ambassador.
At a glance
13 Kensington Palace Gardens, historically known as Harrington House, stands as a distinguished Georgian-era residence in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The property carries both private and diplomatic significance in London’s architectural landscape.
History
The house served for generations as the residence of the Earls of Harrington, one of England’s prominent aristocratic families. Earlier Harrington Houses occupied notable London locations at Craig’s Court, Charing Cross, and Stable Yard, St James’s, before the family established themselves at Kensington Palace Gardens. The residence eventually transitioned to diplomatic use and now functions as the official residence of the Russian Ambassador.
What you see
The building exemplifies the refined townhouse tradition of Georgian London, with the formal address and prestigious location indicating substantial architectural merit and carefully proportioned interiors befitting aristocratic occupation.
Cultural significance
The house represents both London’s heritage of private aristocratic residences and the city’s role as a diplomatic hub. Its occupation by successive ambassadors reflects the international importance of Kensington Palace Gardens as an address of diplomatic consequence.
Key facts
- Alternative name: Harrington House
- Country: United Kingdom
- City: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London
- Coordinates: 51.507127, -0.190638
- Current use: Official residence of the Russian Ambassador
Practical information & getting there
The property is located in the exclusive Kensington area of west London. As an official diplomatic residence, public access is restricted. The address remains one of London’s most prestigious locations, accessible by public transport via nearby Underground stations and bus routes serving the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
Sources & resources
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