Background

Statue of Queen Victoria, Bristol

A majestic marble tribute to Queen Victoria on Bristol’s College Green, blending history, art, and royal heritage in the city’s heart.

4.3

The Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol stands prominently on College Green as a distinguished tribute to one of Britain's longest-reigning monarchs. Sculpted by Joseph Edgar Boehm and unveiled in 1888 by her grandson Prince Albert Victor, this Grade II listed marble statue features intricate bronze reliefs on its base and commemorates Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Its historic significance and artistic detail make it a key landmark in Bristol’s cityscape.

A brief summary to Statue of Queen Victoria

  • 38 College Green, Bristol, BS1 5SP, GB
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate bronze reliefs and marble craftsmanship.
  • Combine your visit with nearby Bristol Cathedral and City Hall for a rich historical walking tour.
  • Look out for the time capsule story during your visit, linking you to Victorian-era history.
  • Take photos from the circular limestone steps for a dramatic perspective of the statue.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    Several city buses serve stops near College Green, with routes connecting Bristol city center and surrounding neighborhoods. Travel times vary between 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £4 per journey. Frequent service runs daily, but check schedules for evenings and weekends.

  • Walking

    From Bristol Temple Meads railway station, the statue is a 20-minute walk through flat, paved urban streets. The route is wheelchair accessible and passes several cafes and shops, making for a pleasant stroll.

  • Car

    Metered parking is available behind Bristol City Hall, about a 5-minute walk from the statue. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. Note that College Green itself is pedestrianized, so parking close to the statue is limited.

Statue of Queen Victoria location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of Statue of Queen Victoria

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Statue of Queen Victoria

A Regal Tribute to Queen Victoria's Legacy

The Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol is a striking monument dedicated to Queen Victoria, who ruled the United Kingdom and later became Empress of India from 1837 to 1901. Created by the acclaimed sculptor Sir Joseph Edgar Boehm, the statue was commissioned to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887. Unveiled on 25 July 1888 by Prince Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence and Avondale—one of the Queen’s grandsons—the statue symbolizes the enduring respect and admiration for her long reign.

Artistic Craftsmanship and Design Details

Standing approximately 8 feet 6 inches tall and weighing around four tons, the statue is carved from marble and rests on a square copper base adorned with finely detailed bronze reliefs. These reliefs include depictions of fish, cherubs (putti), and inscribed panels that add layers of artistic richness to the monument. Visitors approach the statue by ascending circular limestone ashlar steps that enhance its prominence on College Green.

Historical Context and Location Significance

The statue replaced a replica of the medieval Bristol High Cross at the apex of College Green, a central public park in Bristol. This location situates the statue amid important civic and religious buildings, including Bristol Cathedral and the Neo-Georgian City Hall. The statue is part of a series of Jubilee statues by Boehm, with similar monuments located in Windsor, Balmoral Castle, Sydney, and Pietermaritzburg, reflecting the widespread celebration of Queen Victoria’s reign across the British Empire.

Preserving History Through Time Capsules

During the statue’s installation, a glass time capsule was embedded in its plinth, preserving artifacts for future generations. This capsule was rediscovered in 2004 during renovation works and is now housed at the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery, enriching the city’s historical archives and connecting present-day visitors with the Victorian era.

The Statue’s Role in Modern Bristol

Today, the statue remains a focal point for visitors exploring Bristol’s historic center. It has witnessed the city’s evolution and even contemporary cultural expressions, such as a 2016 street art intervention that playfully altered the statue’s lower half. The site offers a contemplative space within the lively urban environment of College Green, surrounded by architectural landmarks and green spaces.

Visitor Experience and Surrounding Attractions

The statue serves as an excellent starting point to explore nearby attractions, including the stained-glass windows of the Lord Mayor’s Chapel, the statue of Raja Rammohan Roy outside the Central Library, and the vibrant Bristol Harbourside. Its accessibility and central location make it a must-see for those interested in British history, art, and urban heritage.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Statue of Queen Victoria

Popular Hotels near Statue of Queen Victoria

Select Currency