York Water Gate: Hidden London Gem
The York Water Gate, located near Embankment Gardens in London, is a fascinating remnant of 17th century riverside architecture.
Built in 1626, this grand archway originally functioned as a riverside entrance to the mansion of George Villiers, the 1st Duke of Buckingham.
The gate served as an access point from the Thames River to York House, his luxurious residence.
At that time, the Thames' waterline came up much closer to where the gate is located today, allowing noblemen and visitors to disembark directly at the entrance by boat.
As W. Hutchings noted in his 1909 work, London Town, “the presence of this beautiful structure underscores the changes brought about by the Embankment.
”While it now stands hundreds of feet from the river, the tide once reached the steps at its base.”
Back in the day, the Strand had up to 13 huge mansions situated on it – and those on its south side, all had access to the River Thames via their own riverside ‘gates’ – but the York Watergate is the only survivor.
It’s widely thought that the intricately carved York Watergate is constructed from Portland Stone.
Over the past four centuries, the 'gate,' along with its 'poodle' legs and lion sculptures, has certainly weathered the effects of the elements and pollution.
Despite this, it remains in remarkably good condition for something so ancient and perpetually exposed to the weather.
In the 1620s, York House was acquired by George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, a royal favourite.
Following a period during the English Civil War, the property was returned to George Villiers, 2nd Duke of Buckingham.
In 1672, he sold it to developers for £30,000, stipulating that his name and title be honoured with the naming of George Street, Villiers Street, Duke Street, Of Alley, and Buckingham Street.
While some of these street names still exist, Of Alley has been renamed York Place, Duke Street is now John Adam Street, and George Street is now York Buildings.
Villiers Street remains along the eastern side of Charing Cross railway station.
Today, the York Water Gate sits quietly in the Embankment Gardens, surrounded by the bustle of central London.
You'll find the gate within the Victoria Embankment Gardens, which are open daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm.
If you enjoyed this blog post, please follow Exploring GB on Facebook for daily travel content and inspiration.
Don’t forget to check out our latest blog post below!
Thank you for visiting Exploring GB.
