4 Buildings that are Living Examples of Victorian Architecture in London

Did you know that architecture as a profession is largely a Victorian creation? It was in the 18^th century that architects started to act as developers and surveyors too. However, by the 1820s, architects were left free to experiment with a profusion of styles. “Victorian” refers to anything that was contemporary to the reign of Queen Victoria, from 1837 to 1901, also known as the Victorian era. During this time, even architecture saw specific styles of construction become popular. Victorian architecture can be called as a series of architectural revival styles in the mid-to-late 19^th century.

However, experts at The Westbourne Hyde Park, one of the leading luxury hotels in London, believe that the city’s buildings are too diverse to be characterised by any particular architectural style. But even they agree that it is the remarkable Victorian architecture that really amazes tourists to the city. And it is advisable to book 4 star hotels in Hyde Park & near Bond Street when you do visit London, so that you are centrally located and can see the best attractions with ease.

4 Victorian Buildings You Must See

1. The Palace of Westminster

The palace lies on the north bank of River Thames. Situated in the City of Westminster, in central London, it is the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, which are the two houses of Parliament in the United Kingdom. The Palace of Westminster features three main towers. Designed by a classical architect, Sir Charles Barry, the collaborative design of the palace uses a perpendicular gothic style and the paintings inside are done in fresco. The Clock Tower of the Palace, known as the Big Ben, is one of London’s most famous landmarks.

2. Royal Albert Hall

Inaugurated by Queen Victoria in 1871, Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall situated on the northern edge of South Kensington. It has a capacity of up to 5, 272 seats. Since 1941, the concert hall holds concerts each summer. The special thing about the stage is that it has hosted the world’s leading artists from many performance genres. Royal Albert Hall has thus become one of the UK’s most treasured and distinctive buildings. Each year, more than 390 shows are hosted in the main auditorium, including classical, rock and pop concerts, ballet, opera, film screenings with live orchestra, and more.

3. Victoria Building, University of Liverpool

This building is situated on the corner of Brownlow Hill and Ashton Street in Liverpool. It was the first purpose-built building designed by Alfred Waterhouse and completed in 1892, to become the University of Liverpool. It has accommodation for administration, teaching, common rooms and a library. However, in 2008, it was converted into the Victoria Gallery & Museum.

4. Manchester Town Hall

A Victorian, non-gothic municipal building in Manchester, this building was also designed by Alfred Waterhouse and was completed in 1877. Inside the building, there are offices and grand ceremonial rooms, such as the Great Hall. The entrance and Sculpture Hall contain busts and statues of influential figures from UK’s past, including Dalton, Joule and Barbioli. There is a clock tower in the exterior, housing Great Abel, the clock bell.

The list doesn’t end here. London has a lot more to offer. However, the next time you plan a visit, book yourself into one of the 4 star hotels near Hyde Park & Bond Street for easy access to all parts of the city.