On Saturday, 4 September 2021, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in London will open its doors to the public as part of the 30th edition of the world’s largest architectural festival, the Open House London.
A guided tour of the building at 47 Portland Place, which was once the seat of the Polish Government-in-Exile and this year marks its 100th year as the seat of the Polish Embassy in London, will be a chance for visitors to learn about its fascinating history and enjoy its stunning interiors.
The building of the Polish Embassy is a large terraced townhouse built by Scottish architect brothers James and Robert Adam in the late 1770s, and boasts of a long list of eminent owners, including Field Marshal Frederick Roberts, 1st Earl Roberts, writer, patron of the arts and Olympic boat-racer Thomas Evelyn Scott-Ellis, 8th Baron Howard de Walden and 4th Baron Seaford, and coal magnate, philanthropist and Liberal MP, Sir Arthur Basil Markham. In October 1921, Polish Minister Władysław Wróblewski purchased the lease for the building on behalf of Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the residence has been the seat of the Polish Embassy ever since.
Open House London first opened in 1992 and was founded by Victoria Thornton OBE. By providing free access to architectural buildings in a city, Open House aims to make the general public aware of the benefits of architecture and design.
The Open House London 2021 listings are available to view online from now. Tours of the Embassy will take place from 11am to 2pm. All those interested in visiting the Embassy need to pre-book their trip by emailing london.events@msz.gov.pl and include their full names. For more information about the listings, go to www.openhouselondon.org.uk.
Please note that spaces for the tours at the Polish Embassy are limited and only successful applicants will be notified. Those visiting will need to wear a face covering, observe social distancing and will be subject to airport-style security upon entry. Please do not bring with you any items which may slow down the process of security check, and bring a photo ID with you.
Source: Polish Embassy UK Press Office
Picture: British Poles
