Statue of Horatio Nelson in Birmingham
Historic bronze statue honoring Admiral Horatio Nelson’s naval victories, located in Birmingham’s Bull Ring since 1809.
The Statue of Horatio Nelson in Birmingham is a historic bronze monument honoring the famed British naval admiral. Created by Richard Westmacott and unveiled in 1809, it was the first public statue of Nelson in Britain, funded by local citizens. The statue depicts Nelson in naval uniform beside a model of his flagship HMS Victory, symbolizing his naval victories. Located in the Bull Ring area, it stands as a significant cultural and historic landmark in Birmingham.
A brief summary to Horatio Nelson Statue
- Edgbaston St, Birmingham, B5 4BU, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during Trafalgar Day celebrations in late October to experience local commemorations of Nelson’s legacy.
- Explore nearby Bullring shopping center and St Martin’s Church to appreciate the statue’s urban context.
- Look closely at the statue’s details, including the HMS Victory model and the original iron railings restored in 2005.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Birmingham’s historic Market Hall area to understand the statue’s original setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Number 8 or 11 bus from Birmingham New Street Station towards the Bull Ring area; journey time is approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. A single ticket costs around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
From Birmingham New Street Station, walk about 15 minutes through the city center to reach the Bull Ring and the statue. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.
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Car
Driving to the Bull Ring area is possible, but parking is limited and can be expensive. Expect to pay £3-5 per hour in nearby car parks. Traffic congestion is common during peak hours.
Horatio Nelson 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 Horatio Nelson Statue
Origins and Historical Significance
The Statue of Horatio Nelson in Birmingham holds the distinction of being the first public statue of Lord Nelson in Britain, unveiled on October 25, 1809, coinciding with King George III's Golden Jubilee. Funded by a public subscription that raised £2,500, the statue commemorates Nelson’s visit to Birmingham in 1802 and celebrates his naval heroism during the Napoleonic Wars. Sculpted by Richard Westmacott, this was also his earliest public work, marking an important moment in British commemorative art.Artistic Details and Symbolism
The statue portrays Nelson in his naval uniform, with a relaxed yet dignified pose, resting his left arm on an anchor. Beside him is a detailed model of his flagship, HMS Victory, which includes a facsimile of the flagstaff truck from the French ship L'Orient, sunk at the Battle of the Nile. This symbolism highlights Nelson’s naval victories and his role in securing British maritime dominance. Originally, the statue stood on a circular marble pedestal adorned with carvings representing Birmingham and its citizens, surrounded by iron railings and lanterns mounted on old cannons.Location and Relocations
Initially placed near the Old Cross, close to the Birmingham Market Hall, the statue has witnessed several relocations due to urban redevelopment. In 1961, it was moved during Bull Ring’s reconstruction, which resulted in the loss of its original carved base, cannons, and lanterns. After further redevelopment, the statue was returned near its original site, now positioned on a high balcony between the Bullring shopping center and Selfridges, overlooking St Martin’s Church. The original iron railings were reinstated in 2005, preserving a link to its historical setting.Cultural Role and Commemoration
The statue remains a focal point for Birmingham’s Trafalgar Day celebrations, honoring Nelson’s most famous victory. In 2009, the bicentenary of the statue’s unveiling was marked by the creation of a commemorative medal produced in Birmingham. The monument symbolizes local pride and national heritage, reflecting Birmingham’s early 19th-century civic spirit and its connection to British naval history.Architectural and Artistic Context
Westmacott’s work on the statue is noted for its simplicity and democratic tone, avoiding heroic exaggeration. The composition balances the figure of Nelson with naval symbols and allegorical elements representing the city’s mourning and consolation. This approach contrasts with later, more elaborate Nelson monuments, emphasizing a rugged and approachable heroism.Preservation and Status
The statue has been designated a Grade II* listed structure since 1952, recognizing its architectural and historic importance. Despite changes to its surroundings and pedestal, it remains a protected landmark within Birmingham’s urban landscape, continuing to inspire reflection on Britain’s naval legacy and the city’s historical identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
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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
