Edward VII Statue, Aberdeen
Aberdeen’s grand Edward VII Statue stands in full ceremonial robes, a striking granite and bronze tribute to the British monarch at the heart of the city.
Standing proudly at the corner of Union Terrace and Union Street, Aberdeen’s Edward VII Statue is a striking granite and bronze monument to the British monarch. Designed by Alfred Drury and carved by James Philip, this elaborate sculpture shows King Edward VII in full ceremonial robes, holding a sceptre and orb. Below, a bronze frieze features symbolic figures of Britannia, St Andrew, and imperial unity, all set on a polished red Peterhead granite plinth. It’s a fine example of early 20th‑century civic sculpture in the heart of the Granite City.
A brief summary to Edward VII Statue
- Union Terrace, Aberdeen, Aberdeen, GB
- +443000200293
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in daylight to fully appreciate the intricate bronze frieze and the play of light on the polished granite plinth.
- Combine your visit with a walk through nearby Union Terrace Gardens and a look at the city’s other historic statues and architecture.
- Take a moment to read the inscriptions and motto on the plinth to understand the historical and symbolic context of the monument.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from city centre
From Union Street, walk west along the main thoroughfare and turn onto Union Terrace; the statue is at the corner, just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s main shopping and cultural district.
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From Union Terrace Gardens
Enter Union Terrace Gardens from the Union Street end and follow the path towards the gardens’ western edge; the Edward VII Statue is clearly visible at the corner of Union Terrace and Union Street, a short stroll from the gardens’ entrance.
Edward VII Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Edward VII Statue
A Grand Tribute in Granite
Erected in 1914, the Edward VII Statue stands as one of Aberdeen’s most elaborate civic sculptures, a dignified tribute to King Edward VII, who reigned from 1901 to 1910. Crafted in granite and bronze, the statue was designed by the renowned sculptor Alfred Drury RA and carved by local stonemason James Philip. The king is depicted in the full regalia of the Order of the Garter, holding a sceptre and orb, symbolising royal authority and the unity of the realm. The polished red Peterhead granite plinth elevates the figure, anchoring this imperial presence in the heart of the Granite City.Symbolism in Stone and Bronze
The monument’s lower section features a richly detailed bronze ornamental frieze that tells a story of empire and national identity. To the left, Britannia appears as a figure of peace, breaking a sword. In the centre stands St Andrew, Scotland’s patron saint, a reminder of the nation’s distinct heritage within the United Kingdom. On the right, three allegorical figures represent imperial unity: Britannia with her arm around figures symbolising India and Africa, while a fourth figure, representing Canada and Australia, reaches out in friendship to ‘The Mother of Nations’. The Latin motto ‘Honi soit qui mal y pense’ – ‘Shame on him who thinks evil of it’ – reinforces the chivalric and imperial ideals of the time.Setting Among the Granite City’s Landmarks
Located at the junction of Union Terrace and Union Street, the statue occupies a prominent position in Aberdeen’s historic core, just steps from Union Terrace Gardens and near major cultural institutions like His Majesty’s Theatre and Aberdeen Art Gallery. The surrounding architecture, largely built from the city’s distinctive grey granite, provides a sober, enduring backdrop that contrasts with the statue’s ornate detailing. This setting makes the Edward VII Statue not just a standalone monument, but a key element in the city’s streetscape, linking commercial thoroughfares with green spaces and civic buildings.A Living Part of the City’s Story
The statue has witnessed over a century of change in Aberdeen, from the early 20th‑century heyday of the British Empire to the modern, multicultural city of today. Its unveiling in 1914 coincided with a period of civic pride and investment in public art, and it has since become a familiar landmark for residents and visitors alike. While its imperial symbolism reflects the values of its time, the statue now also serves as a point of reflection on history, heritage, and how cities choose to remember their past. It remains a popular subject for photography and a quiet place to pause amid the bustle of the city centre.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edward VII Statue
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Aberdeen’s grand Edward VII Statue stands in full ceremonial robes, a striking granite and bronze tribute to the British monarch at the heart of the city.
Aedie's House site
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Unmissable attractions to see
Slains
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Aberdeen Sign
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General Gordon Statue
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His Majesty's Theatre
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Essential places to dine
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Cafe 52
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Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
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Namaste Delhi
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Moonfish Cafe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Itskitsch Ltd
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Juniper
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White Stuff Aberdeen
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Oliver Bonas
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Forbes Gallery & Gifts
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EDIT
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Beyond Vintage
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The Vintage Market
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Annie Mo's
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Next
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Soul
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The GasLamp Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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CHEERZ
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Market Arms
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Monumental
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Urban Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
