General Charles Gordon Statue in Aberdeen
A dignified bronze tribute to General Charles Gordon, reflecting his military valor and humanitarian legacy in the heart of Aberdeen.
The General Charles Gordon Statue in Aberdeen is a distinguished bronze sculpture by Scottish artist Thomas Stuart Burnett, unveiled in 1888. It honors Major-General Gordon’s military career and humanitarian legacy, depicting him in his Royal Engineers uniform with a walking cane and binoculars. Situated outside Robert Gordon's College on Schoolhill, the statue stands on a pink granite plinth, surrounded by flagstones and granite bollards, symbolizing Gordon’s enduring connection to the city and his clan.
A brief summary to General Gordon Statue
- Schoolhill, Aberdeen, AB10 1JQ, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the detailed bronze work and inscriptions on the pink granite plinth.
- Combine your visit with a tour of nearby Robert Gordon's College and Aberdeen Art Gallery for a rich cultural experience.
- Look for the inscription on the plinth that quotes Gordon’s dedication: 'I have done my best for the honour of our country.'
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take the First Aberdeen bus services 1, 2, or 3 from the city center to the Schoolhill stop near Robert Gordon's College. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-20 minutes. A single fare costs around £1.80.
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Walking
From Aberdeen city center, walk approximately 1.2 km to the statue on Schoolhill. The route is mostly flat on paved sidewalks, suitable for most walkers and wheelchair users. Walking time is about 15-20 minutes.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Aberdeen city center and can reach the statue in about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. The fare typically ranges from £5 to £8.
General Gordon Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about General Gordon Statue
A Tribute to a Complex Military Figure
The General Charles Gordon Statue in Aberdeen commemorates Major-General Charles George Gordon, a celebrated yet controversial figure in British military history. Sculpted by Thomas Stuart Burnett and unveiled in 1888, the statue was funded by the Clan Gordon as a tribute to one of their most famous members. Gordon's military career spanned the Crimean War, leadership in China during the Taiping Rebellion, and his final stand at Khartoum in 1885, where he was killed. His reputation as a Christian military hero and humanitarian is captured in the statue’s dignified yet approachable portrayal.Artistic Details and Symbolism
This full-length bronze figure shows Gordon dressed in his Royal Engineers regimental uniform, complete with a tunic featuring elaborate braided frogging and a great coat with a half-length cape. He wears knee-high riding boots and spurs, standing bareheaded. In his right hand, he leans on a bamboo walking cane, while his left hand holds binoculars, suggesting vigilance and readiness. The statue rests on a pink granite plinth, surrounded by matching pink flagstones and granite bollards, which frame the monument and add to its stately presence.Historical Context and Legacy
Gordon’s career was marked by significant military engagements and humanitarian efforts. He played a key role in the Crimean War and was instrumental in leading the Ever Victorious Army against the Taiping rebels in China. His final mission in Sudan, defending Khartoum, ended in his death but cemented his status as a martyr and imperial hero. The inscription on the plinth honors his dedication: “I have done my best for the honour of our country.” The statue stands as a reminder of his complex legacy, celebrated by his clan and the city of Aberdeen.Location and Setting
The statue is prominently located on Schoolhill, outside Robert Gordon's College and near Aberdeen Art Gallery, placing it within a cultural and educational hub of the city. The setting allows visitors to appreciate the statue’s craftsmanship and reflect on Gordon’s life amid the historic architecture and vibrant urban environment of Aberdeen’s city center.Commemorative Significance and Clan Connection
Commissioned by the Clan Gordon, the statue symbolizes the clan’s pride in one of their most illustrious members. It serves both as a memorial and a cultural landmark, linking local heritage with broader British imperial history. The statue’s presence in Aberdeen underscores the city’s role in commemorating figures of national and international significance.Enduring Symbol of Service and Sacrifice
Beyond its artistic and historical value, the statue invites contemplation of themes such as duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of empire. It stands not only as a tribute to General Gordon’s military achievements but also as a monument to his humanitarian ideals and personal character, preserved in bronze for future generations to explore and interpret.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
