King Alfred the Great Statue, Winchester
A towering bronze tribute to England’s Saxon king, standing proudly in Winchester’s historic Broadway since 1901.
The King Alfred the Great Statue in Winchester is a commanding bronze monument erected in 1901 to commemorate the millennium of the Saxon king’s death. Standing 4.5 meters tall on Cornish granite bases, it symbolizes Alfred’s legacy as a warrior, Christian leader, and unifier of England. Despite an upside-down central base, the statue remains a striking historical landmark in the heart of Winchester’s Broadway.
A brief summary to King Alfred the Great Statue
- 65 The Broadway, Winchester, SO23 9BE, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue’s detailed craftsmanship and surrounding historic streets.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Winchester Castle and Abbey Gardens to explore more of the city’s medieval heritage.
- Look closely at the granite base to spot the upside-down central section, a unique quirk of the statue’s assembly.
- Bring a camera for iconic photo opportunities with one of Winchester’s most famous landmarks.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus services to Winchester city centre, with frequent routes from nearby towns; journey times vary from 20 to 60 minutes depending on origin. The Broadway is a short walk from the main bus stops. Tickets typically cost between £2 and £5.
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Train
Winchester Railway Station is about 1.5 km from the statue, with regular services from London, Southampton, and other regional hubs. From the station, a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride will bring you to The Broadway. Train fares range from £10 to £30 depending on departure point.
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Car
Driving to Winchester is straightforward via the M3 motorway. Parking is available in nearby city centre car parks, typically costing £2–£4 per hour. Note that The Broadway is pedestrianised, so parking nearby and walking is recommended.
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Walking
If staying locally, the statue is easily accessible on foot via flat, paved streets. Walking times from central Winchester hotels range from 5 to 15 minutes, suitable for most mobility levels.
King Alfred the Great Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about King Alfred the Great Statue
A Monument to a Legendary Saxon King
The King Alfred the Great Statue stands prominently on The Broadway in Winchester, a city once the capital of the Kingdom of Wessex. Commissioned in 1899 and unveiled in 1901 to mark 1,000 years since Alfred’s death in 899, this bronze statue is a tribute to one of England’s most revered early monarchs. Designed by the sculptor Hamo Thornycroft, it rises 4.5 meters (15 feet) tall and weighs over five tons, making it an imposing figure in the cityscape.Symbolism and Artistic Details
The statue’s design is rich with symbolism. Alfred is depicted wearing a Saxon helmet and cloak, his left hand resting on a circular shield, while his right grasps a cross-hilted sword with the point facing downward—a representation of his dual role as a warrior and a Christian leader. The stance, with the left foot forward, evokes a sense of kingship and authority. The statue stands on two solid Cornish granite bases, although the central base was famously installed upside down during assembly, a quirk that has become part of its story.Historical Legacy Embedded in Stone
Alfred the Great is celebrated for his defense of Wessex against Viking invasions, his legal reforms, and his efforts to unify England. His reign laid foundations for the English nation and its institutions. The statue’s inscription simply reads “AELFRED,” honoring his Saxon name and legacy. Positioned to face down the length of the High Street toward Winchester Castle, the statue connects visitors to the city’s rich medieval heritage.The Victorian Millenary Celebration
The statue was the centerpiece of a grand Victorian celebration marking the millennium of Alfred’s death. The event included public speeches, pageants, and a public holiday in Winchester. It reflected Victorian ideals of leadership, Christian virtue, and imperial strength, projecting contemporary values onto the medieval king. The statue remains a testament not only to Alfred himself but also to how history is remembered and celebrated.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated in the heart of Winchester’s bustling Broadway, the statue is surrounded by historic streets, pubs, and landmarks such as the Great Hall and Abbey Gardens. It serves as a popular photo spot and a starting point for exploring the city’s deep Anglo-Saxon roots. Despite the assembly mishap, the statue’s commanding presence and detailed craftsmanship make it a must-see for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.A Living Symbol of Winchester’s Heritage
More than just a statue, this monument embodies the spirit of Winchester’s past and its role in shaping English history. It invites reflection on Alfred’s achievements—from military victories to cultural and legal reforms—and the enduring legacy of a king who shaped a nation. The statue’s presence in the city centre ensures that Alfred’s story remains a living part of Winchester’s identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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A towering bronze tribute to England’s Saxon king, standing proudly in Winchester’s historic Broadway since 1901.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
