Elephant Statue, Chester
A charming bronze baby elephant statue gifted by Chester Zoo, nestled in the historic streets of Chester – a delightful photo stop for all ages.
A charming bronze statue of a baby elephant stands on Northgate Street in Chester, a gift from Chester Zoo to the city. This lifelike sculpture, unveiled in 2010, captures the innocence and playfulness of a young elephant calf and has become a popular photo spot for visitors exploring the historic city centre. Located near the Town Hall and cathedral, it’s an accessible, family-friendly stop that adds a touch of whimsy to a walk through Chester’s streets.
A brief summary to Elephant Statue
- Chester, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the day or in the late afternoon to avoid the busiest shopping crowds and get clearer photos.
- Combine your visit with a walk to Chester Cathedral and the Town Hall, all within a few minutes’ stroll.
- Look closely at the sculpture’s details – the texture of the skin, the position of the ears, and the expression give it a lifelike quality.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Chester Town Hall, head along Northgate Street; the elephant statue is a short walk away, clearly visible on the pavement near the cathedral area. The route is flat and paved, suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
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Public Transport
From Chester railway station, take a local bus towards the city centre and alight near the Town Hall or Northgate Street. From there, follow signs for the cathedral or main shopping streets to reach the statue within a few minutes on foot.
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Cycling
Chester’s city centre has designated cycle routes; follow signs to the town centre and Northgate Street. Secure your bike at nearby racks and walk the short distance to the statue, which is located on a busy but pedestrian-friendly street.
Elephant Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Elephant Statue
A Bronze Baby Elephant in the Heart of Chester
A small but striking bronze statue of a baby elephant stands on Northgate Street, close to Chester’s Town Hall and cathedral. This life-sized sculpture, affectionately known as Janya, depicts a young elephant calf in a natural, relaxed pose, with carefully detailed skin, ears, and trunk. Crafted by sculptor Annette Yarrow, the statue was unveiled in March 2010 as a gift from Chester Zoo to the city, symbolising the strong connection between the zoo and the local community. Its realistic form and gentle expression make it instantly appealing, especially to children and animal lovers.A Symbol of Life and Connection
The name Janya comes from a word meaning 'life', reflecting the statue’s deeper significance as a celebration of vitality and the bond between people and animals. Created by an artist inspired by her childhood in India, the sculpture carries subtle cultural echoes while remaining a distinctly modern piece of public art. It serves as a tribute to Chester Zoo’s conservation work and its role in bringing wildlife into the heart of the city, even in sculptural form. The statue’s placement in a busy urban area ensures it is seen by many, turning a simple street corner into a moment of pause and reflection.Part of Chester’s Historic Streetscape
The elephant stands in a lively section of Northgate Street, surrounded by Chester’s characteristic black-and-white timber-framed buildings, shops, and cafes. Its location near the Town Hall and Chester Cathedral places it within easy reach of the city’s main attractions, making it a natural stop on a walking tour. The contrast between the ancient architecture and this contemporary bronze figure adds to its charm, blending history, art, and a touch of whimsy. Visitors often pause here for photos, and the statue has become a small but memorable landmark in its own right.A Quick, Charming Stop for All Ages
Because it is outdoors and freely accessible at all times, the statue is ideal for a brief visit during a longer exploration of Chester. Families appreciate its child-friendly appeal, while photographers enjoy its photogenic details and the way it fits into the city’s streetscape. There are no formal facilities at the statue itself, but nearby streets offer restrooms, cafes, and seating, making it easy to combine a visit with a coffee break or a stroll through the cathedral grounds. Its compact size means it won’t take long to appreciate, but its warmth and character often leave a lasting impression.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge Of Sighs
3.7 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Pemberton's Parlour
3.9 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
3.9 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
3.9 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Chester Town Hall
3.9 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Uffington House, Chester
3.9 km
Victorian literary landmark where author Thomas Hughes built his Chester residence in 1885.
Chester War Memorial
3.9 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
4.0 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Eastgate Clock
4.0 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Crypt Chambers
4.1 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Chester Cross
4.1 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Roman South East Corner Tower
4.2 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Queens Park Bridge
4.3 km
A historic Victorian-era suspension footbridge spanning the River Dee with elegant lattice ironwork and timeless charm.
Wishing Steps
4.4 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Chester History & Heritage
4.4 km
Explore Chester's history and heritage at the Grosvenor Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories from the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chester Zoo
0.1 km
Explore the UK's largest zoo, home to 35,000 animals and immersive tropical habitats, championing conservation and unforgettable family adventures.
Camels
0.1 km
Encounter majestic desert dwellers at the UK's premier conservation zoo
Butterflies journey
0.1 km
Step into a vibrant tropical paradise at Chester Zoo’s Butterfly Journey, home to over 30 species of free-flying butterflies and lush exotic plants.
Andean Bear
0.3 km
Discover the captivating Andean Bear in Chester—a unique wildlife experience highlighting conservation and education.
Lions
0.3 km
Explore Chester Zoo's vast wildlife sanctuary, home to thousands of animals and immersive habitats, blending conservation with unforgettable family adventures.
Tropical Realm
0.3 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant warmth and exotic wildlife of Chester Zoo’s Tropical Realm, a lush indoor rainforest habitat.
Flamingos
0.3 km
Discover the stunning Caribbean flamingos and witness rare chick hatchings at Chester Zoo’s vibrant and lively flamingo habitat.
Aquarium
0.4 km
Explore Europe’s largest shark collection and a stunning underwater tunnel at Blue Planet Aquarium, a family-friendly aquatic adventure near Chester.
Giant Otter
0.4 km
Discover the captivating Giant Otters of Chester in a serene, naturalistic setting perfect for wildlife lovers and families alike.
Spirit of the Jaguar
0.5 km
Explore one of the world’s finest jaguar habitats in a lush South American-themed exhibit at Chester Zoo, home to elusive big cats and fascinating rainforest species.
Countess of Chester Country Park
2.5 km
A revitalized 19-hectare country park in Chester offering accessible trails, rich wildlife, cultural art, and community activities for all ages.
The Live Rooms
3.3 km
Chester’s largest live music venue offering intimate gigs, diverse events, and a vibrant nightlife just steps from the train station.
Chester City Sightseeing Tour Bus
3.4 km
Explore Chester’s historic landmarks with a flexible hop-on hop-off open-top bus tour featuring expert commentary and easy accessibility.
Chester Supertrees
3.6 km
Steel giants wrapped in living plants—Chester's answer to urban air pollution and ecological innovation.
Escapism Chester
3.6 km
Dive into Chester’s top escape room with immersive puzzles, captivating themes, and expert hosts for an unforgettable adventure.
Essential places to dine
Made in Italy
3.1 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s vibrant dining scene.
Sticky Walnut
3.1 km
Intimate modern European bistro in Chester’s Hoole, famed for seasonal dishes, warm service, and a cozy, refined atmosphere.
The Faulkner Pub, Bar & Restaurant
3.1 km
A vibrant Hoole gastropub blending fresh local cuisine, lively bar vibes, and welcoming community spirit in the heart of Chester.
Pacinos
3.4 km
Family-run Italian and Mediterranean fine dining in Chester's city centre since 1986.
Chai Station - Vegetarian vegan Indian
3.5 km
Authentic vegetarian and vegan Indian flavors in Chester’s cozy, welcoming eatery with a personal touch.
Pierogi | Handmade Polish Dumplings
3.5 km
Authentic handmade Polish dumplings in Chester’s cozy Brook Street eatery, blending tradition with fresh, comforting flavors.
Siam Thai & Teppan-Yaki
3.7 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and captivating Japanese teppanyaki performances in Chester’s vibrant canal-side restaurant.
The Yard Modern Italian Restaurant Chester
3.7 km
A vibrant family-run modern Italian restaurant in Chester serving bold Mediterranean flavors with fresh, artfully presented dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Porta Wine & Tapas Bar
3.7 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Green House
3.7 km
A stylish Chester tapas restaurant blending gourmet small plates, inventive cocktails, and warm hospitality in a modern setting.
Bollicini
3.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and stylish Milanese-inspired dining in the heart of Chester’s historic city centre.
Chez Jules in Chester
3.8 km
Historic French bistro in a converted fire station, celebrated for seasonal cuisine and outstanding value.
Covino
3.8 km
Discover Covino, Chester’s intimate wine bar pairing exceptional organic wines with inventive small plates in a cozy, historic setting.
Blue Bell
3.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a historic 15th-century setting at The Blue Bell 1494, Chester’s charming culinary gem.
Frodsham's Grill Chester
3.8 km
Authentic Mediterranean and Turkish charcoal-grilled delights served in a welcoming Chester setting with attentive service and a lively atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olivia & Smith
3.1 km
Discover bespoke jewellery, stylish handbags, and unique gifts at Olivia & Smith, Chester’s charming boutique for quality and personalized service.
erj Boutique & Lifestyle
3.1 km
Discover curated womenswear, footwear, jewellery, and homeware in Chester’s vibrant Hoole at erj Boutique & Lifestyle.
mirror mirror boutique
3.2 km
Find your unique style at Mirror Mirror Boutique, Chester's premier clothing shop offering trendy apparel and personalized fashion advice.
Lagenlook Clothing Boutique - Pale Grey Boutique
3.3 km
Explore unique Lagenlook fashion at Chester's Pale Grey Boutique, where style and elegance meet individuality in every layer.
The 2nd Floor Independent Shop
3.6 km
Discover quirky, unique fashion and gifts with friendly service in Chester’s charming independent boutique on Upper Northgate Street.
Queens Road Shopping Centre
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Queens Road Shopping Centre in Chester, where retail therapy meets local charm.
CH.ONE
3.8 km
Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
Chester Zoo at The Market
3.9 km
Discover unique wildlife gifts and support global conservation at Chester Zoo’s vibrant market stall in the heart of Chester.
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
3.9 km
Discover the vibrant world of healing crystals and spiritual gifts at The Crystal Hut, Chester’s colorful gem in Exchange Square market.
Lee Louise Chester Ltd
3.9 km
Discover Chester’s oldest timber-framed shop, a vibrant treasure trove of crystals, holistic gifts, and unique fashion in a historic 1571 building.
The Gift Shop
4.0 km
Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
Lily Vintage Boutique
4.0 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Foxy Frox Boutique
4.0 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
Church Gifts Shop
4.0 km
Discover meaningful religious gifts in Chester’s historic heart at the welcoming Church Gifts Shop on Eastgate Street.
The Mug Doctor
4.0 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lodge Bar
3.0 km
A cozy Chester bar blending classic pub charm with modern cocktails and fine wines in the vibrant Hoole district.
The Deva Tap
3.4 km
Discover Chester’s quirky craft beer gem with a vibrant atmosphere, diverse brews, and a welcoming beer garden on Brook Street.
The Old Harkers Arms
3.7 km
A cozy canalside pub in Chester blending historic charm, quality ales, and classic British fare in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cornerhouse
3.8 km
A lively Chester bar blending craft beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for memorable nights and celebrations.
City Tavern
3.9 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Revolution Chester
3.9 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester city centre, perfect for socialising, dining, and celebrations with expertly mixed drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Chester
4.0 km
Chester’s vibrant brewpub serving award-winning craft beers, hearty British classics, and a lively community atmosphere on Love Street.
Metronome Jazz Bar
4.0 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Music Hall Tap
4.0 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Red Door
4.1 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Watergates Bar
4.1 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Under the oak bar
4.1 km
Cozy bar retreat in Ellesmere Port’s Cheshire Oaks, blending local ales, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for shoppers and visitors alike.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
4.2 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Havana Chester
4.2 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Prohibition
4.2 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
