1903 Visit to the Travellers Club

The Travellers Club was founded in 1819 for gentlemen who could prove they had travelled at least 500 miles from London. In 1832 Charles Barry designed a purpose-built clubhouse on Pall Mall. Barry was inspired by the Palazzo Pandolfini in Florence as well as palatial Venetian gardens, selectively drawing upon Italy’s Renaissance architectural heritage and blending it in a uniquely luxurious and characteristically British manner. This was one of Barry’s most significant London projects prior to winning the competition to rebuild the Houses of Parliament, and he became a member of the Travellers himself in 1834. The Travellers retains many of Barry’s original interior features, including furniture and light fittings. The library is one of the most notable architectural features of the Travellers, and it contains a cast of the Bassae Frieze, excavated by CR Cockerell. Cockerell was one of the club’s founder members. This tour will be led by John Martin Robinson. Note that the club has a formal dress code which is strictly enforced. Men must be in jacket and tie; ladies must be dressed to a similar standard; no jeans or trainers please. Meet at the entrance to the Travellers Club, 106 Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5EP. Tube and rail: Charing Cross. £20 including coffee. Booking required.*