Twelve acres of stunning gardens. That’s what greets you at Winfield House. This isn’t just any London residence. This is the official home of the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Winfield House boasts the second-largest private garden in London. Only Buckingham Palace surpasses it in size.
Winfield House’s story is one of transformation. It began as Hertford Villa a grand mansion built in 1825. It later acquired the name St Dunstan’s due to a distinctive clock. This clock was purchased from the demolished church of St Dunstan-in-the-West. Famous figures such as Otto Kahn and Lord Rothermere once resided there. Sadly a fire damaged the original structure in 1936.
American heiress Barbara Hutton purchased the land. She demolished the fire-damaged villa. She then commissioned a new mansion. This Neo-Georgian masterpiece was designed by Leonard Rome Guthrie. Initially it kept the name St Dunstan’s but Hutton changed it. The name Winfield House honors her grandfather Frank Winfield Woolworth. He owned an estate called Winfield Hall in New York.
During World War II Winfield House served the Royal Air Force. It housed a barrage balloon unit and became an officers’ club. Film star Cary Grant visited during this time. He was married to Barbara Hutton. After the war Hutton gifted Winfield House to the US government for a mere dollar.
Since 1955 Winfield House has been the US Ambassador’s residence. It underwent extensive renovations before becoming the official residence. Its previous location at 14 Prince’s Gate was deemed insecure. The house is listed on the US Secretary of State’s Register of Culturally Significant Property. It is a testament to the strong relationship between the US and UK.
Winfield House has welcomed many distinguished visitors. These include the Queen various US presidents and other prominent figures. The grounds themselves are a wonder. They include a small wood a sculpture garden a formal garden and even a tennis court. The house continues to serve as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. A place where history is made and memories are created. A truly remarkable London landmark.