Wellington’s Steps
The Athenaeum Club and the Institute of Directors are a pair of rather exclusive clubs, situated opposite each other on fancy Waterloo Place. Outside each building sit a couple of blocks, each bearing a plaque stating “This horseblock was erected by the desire of the Duke of Wellington 1830”.
The first Duke of Wellington, Arthur Wellesley – commanding officer at the Battle of Waterloo and later Prime Minister – was a member of the Athenaeum Club during his political career, and would often arrive on horseback. Being more advanced in years and therefore less agile than when serving in the military, the Duke suggested that the horseblocks would allow all members of the clubs to mount and dismount with greater ease – and presumably also more grace.
Today of course, the blocks are rarely used by horse riders, though many a tourist guide can be spotted atop the steps telling tales of Wellington’s exploits.