14 Princes Gate

14 Princes Gate is a Beaux-Arts building standing at the eastern end of a terrace facing Hyde Park with refined architectural details. The façade features Native American head keystones above the windows and ornamental stonework throughout.

The building was constructed as a private residence and served from the 1920s through the 1950s as the official residence for American ambassadors. Following this period, different institutions occupied the house and adapted it for their own purposes.

Decorative elements like the Native American head keystones above the windows reflect the international connections of this address. These details tell visitors about the building's role in Anglo-American relations.

The building is located across from Hyde Park and can be easily spotted when exploring this famous green space. Its location along Princes Gate makes it simple to walk past while viewing the terrace of period properties.

The building played an unexpected role during the 1980 Iranian Embassy Crisis when Special Air Service operations used rooms within it for planning. Few visitors to the area know of this dramatic historical connection.

Location: City of Westminster

GPS coordinates: 51.50150,-0.17200

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41