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In 1895, William Waldorf Astor, one of the wealthiest men of his time (in fact, he “humbly” called himself the Wealthiest Man in the World… and he wasn’t too far off), commissioned the creation of Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic mansion that overlooks the River Thames. Allegedly, he told his architect that he wanted something grand and extraordinary. So, extraordinarily grand it was: gold leaf, mahogany panels, and whimsical carvings of literary characters like Shakespeare’s Prospero and Caliban filled its halls.
📸: Dominik Gehl
But Astor wasn’t just showing off—he was safeguarding. Deep in the basement, he installed a steel-lined vault reportedly capable of withstanding dynamite. While rumors of hidden treasures persist, the vault mostly housed estate documents. Exciting, but not rare gemstones or pounds of pounds (£) exciting.
The staircase, however, could be considered a rare gem. Adorned with wood carvings of Shakespearean characters, explorers, and even a monkey clutching an apple, it reflects Astor’s love of literature and his eccentric humor. Local lore claims the monkey was added as a cheeky reminder “not to take life too seriously.” Even if that wasn’t at the core of the decision to include the primate, it’s a great reminder… so thank you, Mr. Astor!
📸: Dominik Gehl
After Astor’s death, the building served various purposes, but finally, in 2011, it reopened to the public as a cultural hub, offering exhibitions and stunning riverside views. Visitors occasionally ask about the knight statue that once stood guard outside—its fate remains a mystery. He seems to have disappeared into the knight.
Two Temple Place is now a public treasure, its grandeur and oddities enchanting anyone who steps inside. If Astor could see it today, he’d likely crack a rare smile, proud that his fortress has become a shared delight. Though that smile might fade after he realized his knight rode off.
