History

L’escalier occupies a site rich in history framed by Southampton’s medieval city walls and next to the West Gate.

This area of Southampton still echoes from the feet of many who have passed by and through the West Gate over the centuries. The archers with their long bows who secured victory at Agincourt; the Pilgrim Fathers embarking on their epic voyage to America; the skilled carpenters who equipped Nelson’s fleet, along with writers and royalty, cruise passengers and servicemen from both World Wars, brushing past the walls on their way.

L’escalier has its own story: completed for, and named after the colourful socialite, The Margravine of Anspach, at the height of the Georgian spa craze, the smart house with its castellated facade enjoyed only short period as a residence. The Solent, which lapped the shore less than fifty yards away was reclaimed from the bathers by the sail makers and shipwrights .Fifty years after it was built, Anspach Place opened its doors as,” The Royal Standard” - the bar serving its regulars until the 21st Century.

Alex Aitken’s, Le Poussin acquired the property and the process of restoring the Georgian glamour began.

Below we share an early photo and two artists drawings of the West Gate.