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.
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
-
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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
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
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cascade Steps
0.1 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.2 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.2 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.2 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.3 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Prince Street Bridge
0.4 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Old Post Office
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
The Nails
0.5 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.5 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Brandon Hill
0.5 km
Explore Brandon Hill, Bristol's picturesque park featuring stunning views, vibrant gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Cabot Tower
0.6 km
Historic 105-foot tower atop Bristol’s oldest park, offering free panoramic city views and a peaceful nature escape.
Wills Memorial Building Tower
0.6 km
Climb Bristol's iconic 68-metre tower for breathtaking city views and explore a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture.
Medieval Vaults
0.6 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Bristol Bridge
0.6 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.6 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Unmissable attractions to see
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.1 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Harbourside
0.1 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.1 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
Bristol Cathedral
0.1 km
Explore Bristol Cathedral’s majestic medieval hall church with soaring vaults, Gothic Revival nave, and centuries of rich history in the city’s heart.
Watershed
0.1 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
0.1 km
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
Bristol Aquarium
0.2 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
The Centre
0.2 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
0.2 km
Discover Banksy’s cheeky and iconic Well Hung Lover mural, Bristol’s first legal street art and a symbol of urban culture and defiance.
We The Curious
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
The Bristol Wheel
0.2 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Pero's Bridge
0.3 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
Narrow Quay
0.3 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Bristol Beacon
0.3 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
Millennium Square
0.3 km
A lively modern city park in Bristol’s harbourside, known for public art, water features, and festive events like the Vintage Winter Wonderland.
Essential places to dine
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
No.1 Harbourside
0.1 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
The Bristol Stable
0.1 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Under the Stars
0.1 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Pieminister
0.2 km
Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.2 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
The River Grille
0.3 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
Bambalan
0.3 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Rick's
0.3 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.4 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Pasta Ripiena
0.4 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Steak of the Art
0.4 km
A bold Bristol steakhouse where art, design and expertly cooked meat come together in a vibrant Harbourside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
my a2space
0.2 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.3 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.3 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.4 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Ganesha
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Zhyper
0.4 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Orendo
0.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.5 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
This Feeling
0.5 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Over Here
0.5 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
Memories
0.5 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.5 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.5 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
uchi clothing co
0.5 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Urban Fox
0.5 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.2 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.3 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.3 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Small Bar
0.3 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
The Architect
0.3 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Shakespeare Tavern
0.3 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
The Clockwork Rose
0.3 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Kongs of King Street
0.4 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Flight Club Bristol
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
The Milk Thistle
0.4 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.4 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Basement 45
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.2 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
OMG
0.2 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
PRYZM
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
0.3 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.3 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Antix
0.3 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
Silk Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.4 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Thekla
0.5 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
La Rocca
0.7 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
0.7 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.7 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
0.8 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
The Loco Klub
1.2 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly