Statue of Edmund Burke, Bristol
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Standing on Broad Quay in Bristol, this 1894 bronze statue honours Edmund Burke, the 18th-century philosopher and politician who represented Bristol in Parliament from 1774 to 1780. Crafted by James Havard Thomas, the Grade II listed monument bears a powerful inscription from Burke’s 1780 speech: his wish to be an MP to do good and resist evil. Located near the waterfront, it offers a quiet moment of reflection on political ideals amid the city’s historic streets and harbour views.
A brief summary to Statue of Edmund Burke
- Broad Quay, Bristol, BS1 4DA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
- Take time to read the full inscription on the plinth to appreciate Burke’s words on public service and moral responsibility.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Harbourside to see other historic landmarks and enjoy the riverside atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Bristol Temple Meads station, follow signs toward the city centre and Harbourside; the statue is about a 15–20 minute walk along well-paved, level routes with clear signage.
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Public Transport
Take a local bus towards the Harbourside or Broad Quay stop; several routes serve this area, with a short walk from the stop to the statue along accessible pavements.
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Taxi / Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare to Broad Quay, Bristol BS1 4DA, will drop you very close to the statue; the area is pedestrian-friendly with nearby drop-off points.
Statue of Edmund Burke location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Statue of Edmund Burke
A Philosopher in Bronze
On Broad Quay, near Bristol’s bustling waterfront, stands a dignified bronze figure: the statue of Edmund Burke, unveiled in 1894. Created by sculptor James Havard Thomas, this Grade II listed monument commemorates Burke not as a distant statesman, but as a man of principle who once represented Bristol in Parliament. The statue shows him in formal 18th-century dress, standing tall on a red granite plinth, facing the city he once served. Its presence is both a tribute to Burke’s political thought and a reminder of Bristol’s complex civic history.Words from the Past
The plinth carries an inscription that captures Burke’s sense of duty: “BURKE / 1774–1780 / I wish to be an MP to have my share of doing good and resisting evil / Speech at Bristol 1780.” These words, drawn from his address to Bristol voters, speak to a vision of public service rooted in moral responsibility. They invite passers-by to pause and consider what it means to act for the common good, a question that still resonates in modern political life. The statue’s quiet dignity makes it a natural spot for reflection, especially when contrasted with the busy streets and harbour nearby.History in the Cityscape
Burke served as MP for Bristol from 1774 to 1780, a period of intense debate over empire, trade, and liberty. Though he lost his seat after challenging some of his constituents’ views, his time in Bristol left a lasting mark on his political philosophy. The statue, a gift from a local tobacco magnate and unveiled by Prime Minister Lord Rosebery, reflects late-Victorian efforts to celebrate civic figures. It once stood on a traffic island opposite Colston Avenue, part of a cluster of memorials that together tell a layered story of Bristol’s past, including its connections to trade, empire, and social change.A Twin Across the Atlantic
Interestingly, an identical bronze statue of Burke stands in Washington, D.C., on Massachusetts Avenue, presented to the American people in 1922. This twin statue underscores Burke’s enduring influence on political thought on both sides of the Atlantic. In Bristol, the original statue remains a local landmark, quietly anchoring discussions about representation, ethics, and historical memory. Its presence near the harbour and city centre makes it easy to combine with a walk along the waterfront or a visit to nearby historic sites.Visiting the Monument
The statue is freely accessible at all times, set in a public space where visitors can approach closely and read the inscriptions. It is well suited to a brief stop during a broader exploration of Bristol’s historic core, particularly when combined with a stroll along the quayside or a visit to nearby landmarks. The surrounding area offers cafes, shops, and views of the river, making it a pleasant place to linger. While the statue itself is modest in scale, its historical and philosophical weight gives it a significance that far exceeds its physical presence.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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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
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- Wheelchair Access
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- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
