Gracing the banks of the River Thames, The Royal Horseguards began life as the National Liberal Club, offering its members a sanctuary from the rough-and-tumble of Westminster politics. Designed by Alfred Waterhouse, whose architectural legacy in London includes the Natural History Museum, it played host to some of Britain’s greatest writers, thinkers and political leaders: the foundation stone in our cellars was laid by William Gladstone, one of five Club members who went on to serve as Prime Minister.