Charles George Gordon: Hotels Close to London’s Military Past

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One of the most controversial figures in British history, Charles George Gordon’s career spanned over thirty years and three continents. Best known for his diplomatic work in China and the Sudan, Gordon was one of Queen Victoria’s favorite generals and one of the most notable military men of his time; he was said to be a hero of Winston Churchill’s as well. Even after his death Gordon had a significant impact on British history, making him one of the most influential political figures of his time as well; the movie “Khartoum” immortalized his last tragic stand against the forces of the Mahdi in the Sudan. Travelers to London can visit some of the notable memorials to this celebrated military man and discover some of the heroic deeds for which he is still remembered, while staying at some of the most luxurious hotels in London today.

Hotels Around Gordon’s Birthplace
Gordon’s birthplace in Woolwich, a suburb of London, is commemorated by the General Gordon Square located in the heart of this small community. A number of London hotels in the area offer accommodations to travelers. Many of the hotels in London offer special rates for weekend excursions or extended stays; especially for tourists who want to take in a number of attractions in a short amount of time, finding hotels in London that are centrally located is crucial. Try the Hilton Dartford Bridge – a 4-star luxury hotel close to the M25 and the Bluewater and Lakeside shopping centres. It has air-conditioned rooms, an indoor pool and a gym, sauna, whirlpool and steam room. It’s also just 5 miles from Ebbsfleet International Eurostar station – which will whisk you into Paris in 3 hours. All the rooms at the Hilton Darford were refurbished in 2009.

Hotels Around Chatham and The Royal Engineers Museum
Charles Gordon began his career in the Royal Engineers, and many of his personal possessions and memorabilia are on display at the Royal Engineers Museum in Chatham; located to the east of London, it is within easy traveling distance by train or automobile. Items on display include some of the silks and gifts Gordon was given by the Chinese government in return for his services to the Emperor during the Second Opium War and the Taiping Rebellion. While in Chatham, visitors can also visit Brompton Barracks, the location of the Royal School of Military Engineering, and view the statue of Gordon astride a camel that graces the entryway to the barracks. Accommodations in the area range from a very respectable 4 stars and ratings to 2 stars – giving a broad range of hotels to choose from depending on your style choices and budget. One of the most popular hotels is the Bridgemoor Manor. This is a modern hotel with many amenities and comforts. The Bridgemoor Manor is within an hour to central London and set in the beautiful Kent countryside. Great suites are available at affordable rates or choose connecting rooms for close proximity to family.

Hotels in Trafalgar Square Near the Ministry of Defense
A statue of Gordon that once graced Trafalgar Square now can be found on the Victoria Embankment in front of the Ministry of Defense facility. The statue was the subject of much controversy in the 1940s soon after it was removed from Trafalgar Square; Winston Churchill argued eloquently but unsuccessfully that the statue should be returned to its original location, citing Gordon’s great popularity and the invaluable services he had provided to the British government. Nearby London hotels include the Royal Horseguards, the Trafalgar Hilton, and the Citadines Apart’hotel; this area offers unique advantages to those traveling in the area to explore Gordon’s history since many of the best hotels in London are located in this popular area and historic attractions are clustered around Trafalgar Square.

Gordon’s death in the Sudan is still a subject of discussion among historians. He died at the hands of warriors of the Mahdi, a self-proclaimed redeemer of the Islamic faith who attracted a sizable following of true believers. William Gladstone, the British prime minister at the time, delayed repeatedly in sending aid to Gordon in repelling the military advances made by the Mahdi, and was consequently blamed by many for Gordon’s death. This created significant problems for Gladstone’s administration because Gordon was regarded as a hero by many in England, and eventually contributed to the collapse of Gladstone’s liberal government. The movie “Khartoum” depicted the events leading up to Gordon’s death. A full-sized effigy of Gordon now is displayed in St. Paul’s Cathedral and a bust of the military hero is present in Westminster Abbey as well; Gordon was a devout Christian, though some of his views might seem rather unorthodox by modern standards.

London contains many reminders of this beloved British warrior. Tourists interested in exploring the history of Charles Gordon will find a number of hotels in London close to the memorials of this legendary figure. Try Booking.com to get the best rates on London hotels, ensuring that you get the most out of your foray into England’s rich military history.

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