Alec the Goose
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
A Goose with a Story
Alec the Goose was no ordinary bird. During the 1920s, this beloved goose became a fixture of daily life in East Belfast, earning a place in the hearts of the community. He belonged to a local poultry vendor who operated at St. George's Market, and from there, Alec developed a reputation for his friendly wanderings through the neighborhood. What made Alec truly special was his unusual habit of accompanying local schoolchildren on their way to school, a quirk that endeared him to generations of young Belfasters.The Sculpture and Its Commemoration
In 2009, the Department of Social Development commissioned a bronze sculpture to honor Alec's memory and his unique place in East Belfast folklore. The statue captures the goose in a moment of companionship, depicted alongside a young female figure representing the schoolchildren he so famously escorted. The sculpture stands as a permanent tribute to this unusual friendship between a bird and the community, preserving a charming chapter of local history that might otherwise have faded into obscurity.A Controversial Welcome
Despite its heartwarming subject matter, the sculpture's unveiling was not without controversy. The Markets' Development Association criticized the Department of Social Development's decision to invest in public art rather than direct funding toward social and environmental improvement projects in the area. This debate highlighted the tension between cultural commemoration and practical community needs, though the sculpture has since found acceptance as part of Belfast's distinctive character.Tragedy and Legacy
Alec's story took a tragic turn when the goose was struck by a truck, ending his life prematurely. This unfortunate incident underscores the very real dangers that accompanied his habit of crossing streets with schoolchildren, yet it also cemented his place in local memory. Rather than being forgotten, Alec became immortalized in bronze, ensuring that future generations could learn about this remarkable goose and the bond he shared with the people of East Belfast.A Quirky Landmark Today
Today, the sculpture serves as both a historical marker and a beloved quirk of Belfast's public realm. Positioned near bike stands outside the southern entrance to St. George's Market, Alec remains visible and accessible whether the market is open or closed. The statue has become a popular spot for photographs and a conversation starter for visitors exploring the area, drawing people who appreciate unusual public art and the stories embedded within urban landscapes.Local tips
- Visit during St. George's Market opening hours (Saturday and Sunday) to experience the vibrant market atmosphere alongside the sculpture, which sits just outside the entrance.
- The sculpture is accessible 24/7 and visible even when the market is closed, making it perfect for early morning or evening photography when crowds are minimal.
- Look for the nearby bike stands to locate the sculpture precisely; it's positioned along East Bridge Street at the southern entrance to the market.
- Combine your visit with exploration of St. George's Market itself, which features food stalls, artisan vendors, and local crafts just steps away from the sculpture.
- Ask locals about Alec's story—many Belfast residents know the folklore and enjoy sharing details about this quirky piece of neighborhood history.
A brief summary to Alec the Goose
- 18 East Bridge St, Belfast, BT2 8LN, GB
Getting There
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Walking from Belfast City Centre
From the city centre, walk toward the waterfront and St. George's Market. The sculpture is located outside the southern entrance to the market on East Bridge Street. Journey time is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on your starting point. The area is flat and easily accessible on foot, with clear signage to the market.
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Public Transport (Bus)
Multiple bus routes serve the city centre and stop near St. George's Market. Journey time from the city centre is typically 5–10 minutes. Single fares cost around £1.50–£2.50 depending on distance. The sculpture is a short walk from the bus stops near the market.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Belfast. Journey time from the city centre is approximately 5–10 minutes, with typical fares ranging from £6–£12 depending on traffic. Drop-off is possible directly on East Bridge Street near the sculpture.
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Cycling
Belfast has an expanding cycle network. The sculpture is located near bike stands at St. George's Market, making it a convenient destination for cyclists. Journey time from the city centre is approximately 10–15 minutes. Bike rental services are available throughout Belfast, typically costing £5–£15 per day.
