Nestled in the western part of central London, Earls Court is a district that has carved a unique niche for itself over the years. It has a rich tapestry of history, vibrant cultural offerings, and a bustling atmosphere that draws in locals and tourists alike. In this article, we’ll explore in detail what Earls Court is famous for, from its historical significance to its modern – day allure.
A Storied History
Early Beginnings
Earls Court was once a rural expanse, covered in orchards, green fields, and market gardens. In the pre – Norman Conquest era, the Saxon thegn Edwin held the lordship of the area. Later, according to the Domesday Book of 1086, the land, which was part of the ancient manor of Kensington, came under the lordship of the de Vere family, the Earls of Oxford. They were descendants of Aubrey de Vere I, who held the manor from Geoffrey de Montbray, Bishop of Coutances. By around 1095, the tenure was converted, and the de Vere family held Kensington directly from the crown. A church was constructed there by 1104.
For centuries, Earls Court remained associated with the de Vere family. Their comital title likely lent itself to the manor house that became known as the “Earl’s Court”. In the early 17th century, ownership transferred through marriage to the family of Sir William Cope. His daughter Isabella married Henry Rich, an ambitious courtier who was created the 1st Earl of Holland in 1624. The manor then passed to Rich, and the house later constructed at Holland Park would bear his name as Holland House. Eventually, the estate was divided into two parts. The Earls Court portion was retained and descended to William Edwardes, 1st Baron Kensington.
Transformation in the 19th Century
In the late 18th century, the area started to transition from rural estates to suburban housing developments. The surgeon John Hunter established a home and animal menagerie on the site of the former manor house in 1765. After his death in 1793, the property changed hands several times. It served as a lodging house and asylum for a while in the early 19th century before being demolished in 1886.
There were some early, unsuccessful attempts at development in the 1820s, such as failed housing ventures. The conversion of the insanitary Counter’s Creek into the Kensington Canal (starting in 1826) didn’t attract much traffic and was later replaced by “Mr Punch’s railway”, which ceased operations just six months after opening. Building resumed slowly in the 1840s. By 1852, when Lord Kensington died, development was still mainly confined to the northern part of the estate above Pembroke Road.
The construction of the Metropolitan District Railway from 1865 – 1869, which later became part of the London Underground’s District Line and was joined by the Piccadilly Line after 1907, was a game – changer. It enabled the transformation of Earls Court from farmland into a Victorian suburb. In the quarter – century after 1867, Earls Court became a loosely populated Middlesex suburb, and in the 1890s, it developed into a more dense parish with 1,200 houses and two churches. Streets like Eardley Crescent, Kempsford Gardens, Earls Court Square, and many others were built during this period.
The Famous Earls Court Exhibition Centre
A Premier Venue
One of the things Earls Court is most renowned for is its exhibition centre. The Earls Court Exhibition Centre was one of the largest indoor exhibition halls and concert venues in the country. It was a magnet for a wide range of events.
Throughout its existence, it hosted some of the most prestigious shows. The annual Motor Show attracted car enthusiasts from far and wide, showcasing the latest automotive innovations, concept cars, and high – performance vehicles.
The Royal Agricultural Show was another significant event, highlighting the best in British agriculture, from livestock to farming equipment. Crufts, the world – class dog show, also found a home at Earls Court. It brought together top – quality dogs and their handlers for a display of breeding excellence and dog training.
Over the years, the exhibition centre also became a popular venue for live music. It hosted everyone from visiting philharmonic orchestras to major pop and rock acts. For example, it was the site of Take That’s farewell concert, which was a huge event for their fans. However, in 2015, Earls Court Two was demolished by Capco plc as part of a controversial £8bn redevelopment plan that aimed to replace the entertainment hub with luxury flats.
A Hub for Travelers
Accommodation Options
Earls Court has long been a popular place for travelers to stay. It offers a good selection of lower – priced hotels and guest houses, making it an attractive option for budget – conscious tourists. There seems to be a hotel on every corner, providing a variety of choices in terms of price, amenities, and style. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking for a simple room or a family in need of more space, you’re likely to find something that suits your needs in Earls Court.
The area’s proximity to central London and its excellent transport links also add to its appeal for travelers. You can easily reach major tourist attractions, business districts, and other parts of the city from Earls Court.
Transportation Links
Earls Court is well – connected by public transportation. The Earls Court Underground Station is a key transport hub. It serves both the District and Piccadilly lines, allowing passengers to travel across London with relative ease. You can quickly reach places like the West End for shopping and theater, or head to Heathrow Airport via the Piccadilly Line. There are also numerous bus routes that pass through the area, providing additional options for getting around.
Architectural Charm
Victorian Architecture
The architecture in Earls Court is a testament to its history, with a significant amount of early to mid – Victorian design. There are still many beautiful squares and properties that front them. These buildings often feature ornate facades, decorative ironwork, and large sash windows. The Victorian terraced houses give the area a distinct character, and walking along the streets feels like a step back in time.
For architecture buffs, there’s also a great deal of early cast – iron restoration to admire. During the war, the original cast iron was dedicated to the war effort, but it has since been tastefully restored, much to the delight of tourists staying in the area’s hotels.
Proximity to Notable Attractions
Nearby Landmarks
Earls Court’s location is another one of its major draws. It’s conveniently close to many notable places and areas. Within a comfortable walking distance, you can reach Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most famous parks. Here, you can enjoy a stroll, have a picnic, or watch the various activities taking place, such as horse – riding or open – air concerts.
The Royal Albert Hall is also nearby. This iconic venue hosts a wide range of events, including ballet, concerts, opera, and top – tier pop or rock music performances. It’s a must – visit for anyone interested in the performing arts.
The Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum are all in the vicinity. The Victoria and Albert Museum is a world – class museum of decorative arts, housing everything from furniture and jewellery to sculpture and prints. The Natural History Museum is famous for its dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and exhibits on human biology and habitats. The Science Museum offers hands – on exhibits and displays on engineering, technology, and industry.
A Diverse Community
Multiculturalism
Earls Court has a diverse community, which adds to its vibrant atmosphere. After the Second World War, the area became a magnet for transient New Zealanders and Australians, so much so that it earned the nickname “Kangaroo Valley”. Over the years, people from all over the world have made Earls Court their home or a temporary stop – over.
This diversity is reflected in the local businesses, restaurants, and cultural events. You can find a wide range of international cuisines, from Australian meat pies to New Zealand – style cafes. There are also community festivals and events that celebrate different cultures, bringing the community together.
Notable Residents
Over the years, many notable people have lived or stayed in Earls Court. Alfred Hitchcock, the famous filmmaker, once called the area home. Princess Diana, prior to her marriage to Prince Charles, also had connections to Earls Court. Freddy Mercury of Queen fame was another well – known figure associated with the area. Their presence in Earls Court has added to its allure and cultural cachet.
Conclusion
Earls Court is famous for a multitude of reasons. Its rich history, from its rural beginnings to its transformation into a vibrant urban district, is an integral part of its identity. The now – demolished Earls Court Exhibition Centre was a major landmark, hosting some of the most important events in the country. It remains a popular destination for travelers due to its affordable accommodation and excellent transport links. The architectural charm, proximity to notable attractions, and diverse community all contribute to making Earls Court a unique and fascinating part of London. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just looking for a convenient place to stay while exploring the city, Earls Court has something to offer.
