Cockspur Street, Covent Garden

Description

Worldly heritageAlmost touched by the shadow of Nelson’s Column is a home with an unusual backstory. Once a members’ club within a Norwegian embassy, Cockspur Street’s walls have seen it all – from gentlemen taking whisky, to attachés taking shelter during the Blitz. And it hasn’t lost a jot of its elegance. Hefty beams overlook modern upholstery, oak panelling is hung with nature-inspired paintings, and the books contain a collection of English wit. And no matter the era, you couldn’t be better located for the sights and sounds of iconic Trafalgar Square, just two minutes’ walk from your doorstep. Wisdom holdersYour hosts love how close they are to one of the city’s most visited squares, and are keen students of their home’s intriguing past. And they’ve done an especially fine job of preserving the old while introducing the new.

Current affairsThough you can spy Admiral Nelson from the sitting room’s window, this home’s marvellous panelled walls, soaring beams and stone fireplace will draw your gaze firmly inside.

The contemporary mustard-hued chairs in the sitting room invite you to indulge in discussion, or follow the panelling to the master bedroom, with its modern art and stately red sofa. And while there’s a strong sense of history here, the bathrooms with walk-in showers and marbled walls could hardly be more up-to-date.