Charles de Gaulle arrived in London on a fateful June day in 1940, a junior minister fleeing a collapsing government and a junior general leading a dwindling army. His arrival marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would weave itself into the fabric of London’s history.
From Bordeaux to Buckingham Palace: A French Leader’s London Odyssey
Few knew who the enigmatic general was, except for Winston Churchill, who had already noticed de Gaulle’s energy and leadership. This unassuming arrival would soon transform into a symbol of resistance against the Nazi occupation of France.
The following day, de Gaulle stepped into Broadcasting House to deliver a historic speech, calling upon the French to defy the armistice and continue the fight. This defiant message echoed across the airwaves, igniting the spirit of Free France, a movement that de Gaulle would lead for the next three years.
London became the heart of the Free French resistance and de Gaulle’s temporary home. While leading the fight for his country, de Gaulle left an imprinted legacy on the city’s streets – a legacy that London Blue Badge Tourist Guides can bring to life for anyone seeking a glimpse into this historic period.
The Free French in London: A Legacy etched in Stone and Brick
The Free French movement established its first headquarters in London at St Stephen’s House on the Victoria Embankment, later moving to 4 Carlton Gardens, a building that would serve as its nerve center until 1944.
These locations hold a special place in de Gaulle’s story and are marked by memorials that honor his legacy. A blue plaque at Carlton Gardens commemorates de Gaulle as the President of the French National Committee who established the Free French Forces’ headquarters.
Across the road, Angela Conner’s statue stands as a powerful reminder of the general’s unwavering resolve and his unwavering commitment to the liberation of France.
Beyond the Battlefield: A French Family’s London Home
After his arrival in London, de Gaulle found refuge at the Rubens Hotel, where he was reunited with his family – Mme Yvonne de Gaulle and their children, Philippe, Elisabeth, and Anne. The family’s journey to London was just as arduous as de Gaulle’s, a testament to the shared sacrifices they made for their country.
The family’s first London home was in Birchwood Road, Petts Wood, but the constant threat of air raids forced them to relocate to Shropshire and later Little Gaddesden, Hertfordshire.
Their nomadic life reflected the turbulent times they lived in, but it also underscored the unwavering bond between de Gaulle and his family.
Faith and Friendship: De Gaulle’s London Connections
Despite the challenges of war, de Gaulle found solace in his faith. He regularly attended mass at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Hampstead, a place of worship built for French Catholic émigrés centuries ago.
London’s historical connection with French émigrés is evident in Soho, which has been a hub of French culture since the 18th century. The French House, a pub formerly known as the York Minster, stands as a reminder of the Free French community who found refuge and camaraderie in London during the war.
Working Lunches and Diplomatic Dialogues: A Legacy of Leadership
De Gaulle’s presence was not limited to the battlefields of the Second World War. He actively participated in the diplomatic and social life of London, often engaging in discussions over lunch at the Connaught Hotel or French restaurants.
These lunches served as a platform for important conversations about the war, the future of France, and the relationship between France and Britain. De Gaulle’s tall, imposing figure was a familiar sight in London, and he often received warm greetings from passersby, despite the strained relationship between the British government and the Free French.
A Lasting Legacy: De Gaulle’s London Moments
London’s iconic landmarks, from 10 Downing Street to Broadcasting House, hold a special place in de Gaulle’s story. He delivered speeches at the Albert Hall, addressed members of the Lords and Commons at the Houses of Parliament, and laid wreaths at the statue of Marshal Foch in Grosvenor Gardens, marking the Bastille Day commemorations.
The 1960 state visit of President de Gaulle to London was a significant event, showcasing the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations.
From Victoria Station to Buckingham Palace, from Covent Garden to Westminster Hall, de Gaulle’s presence left an unforgettable imprint on London, a city that played a crucial role in shaping the course of his life and legacy.
Exploring de Gaulle’s London: A Journey Through Time
Discover London’s hidden de Gaulle connections with the help of a London Blue Badge Tourist Guide. They can bring the past back to life, guiding you through the streets where history unfolded, and revealing the enduring impact of a general who defied the odds and led his people to freedom.
London’s vibrant tapestry is woven with threads of history, and Charles de Gaulle’s presence serves as a testament to the enduring bond between France and Britain.
