Charles De Gaulle Statue at Carlton Gardens, London
A commanding tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles De Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
The Charles De Gaulle Statue in Carlton Gardens, London, commemorates the leader of the Free French Forces during World War II. Unveiled in 1993 by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, this life-sized bronze statue portrays de Gaulle in his brigadier general uniform, standing opposite the building that served as the Free French headquarters. The site reflects his pivotal role in rallying French resistance and symbolizes enduring Franco-British ties.
A brief summary to Charles De Gaulle Statue
- Carlton Gardens, London, SW1Y 5AD, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the statue’s details and the surrounding historic plaques.
- Combine your visit with a walk through nearby St James’s Park and other historic London landmarks.
- Attend the annual commemorative ceremony organized by the French Embassy if visiting in June.
- Look out for the blue plaque on 4 Carlton Gardens, marking the Free French Forces headquarters.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly Circus or Green Park Underground stations, each about a 7 to 10-minute walk to Carlton Gardens. Both stations are served by multiple lines including Piccadilly, Victoria, and Bakerloo. The stations are wheelchair accessible, and single fares in central London typically cost £2.50–£4.50 with contactless payment.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Carlton Gardens, including routes 9, 14, and 19. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on starting point and traffic. Buses accept Oyster cards and contactless payments, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in central London, walking to Carlton Gardens is pleasant and accessible, taking 10 to 20 minutes depending on your location. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Charles De Gaulle Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Charles De Gaulle Statue
A Symbol of Defiance and Leadership
The Charles De Gaulle Statue stands proudly in Carlton Gardens, London, marking the location where de Gaulle established the headquarters of the Free French Forces during World War II. This bronze statue, life-sized and set on a plinth of equal height, depicts de Gaulle in his brigadier general uniform, embodying strength and resilience. It commemorates his leadership in rallying the French resistance after the fall of France in 1940 and his determination to continue the fight against occupation.Historical Significance of Carlton Gardens
Carlton Gardens served as the nerve center for the Free French government-in-exile from 1940 to 1944. De Gaulle arrived in London in June 1940 and set up his headquarters here, initially residing at the Connaught Hotel before moving to Hampstead. The building opposite the statue was the operational hub where de Gaulle organized Free French military training and operations. Nearby plaques further memorialize his presence and the stirring 18 June 1940 appeal broadcast from the BBC, which became a rallying cry for French resistance.The Statue’s Creation and Unveiling
Created by sculptor Angela Conner with architectural input from Bernard Wiehahn, the statue was unveiled in June 1993 by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Its installation followed a campaign led by Lady Soames, Winston Churchill’s daughter, reflecting the deep respect held for de Gaulle’s wartime role. The statue’s location near the headquarters and the blue plaques creates a poignant historical ensemble, honored annually by ceremonies organized by the French Embassy.De Gaulle’s London Legacy and Franco-British Relations
During his London exile, de Gaulle was a towering figure, often seen walking through St James’s and Berkeley Square, greeted by applause from locals. Despite occasional political tensions with the British government, his presence symbolized hope and resistance. The statue serves as a reminder of the enduring ties between France and the United Kingdom forged during those challenging years.Architectural and Artistic Features
The statue’s design captures de Gaulle’s commanding presence, with his left hand raised in a gesture that has been interpreted as both supplication and determination. The choice of bronze and the life-sized scale give the monument a timeless quality, blending seamlessly with the historic surroundings of Carlton Gardens and the elegant architecture of St James’s.Commemorative Importance Today
Today, the statue stands as a focal point for remembrance and education. It invites visitors to reflect on the sacrifices and leadership that shaped modern Europe. The site’s proximity to other historic landmarks in London enhances its significance as a cultural heritage destination, preserving the memory of de Gaulle’s pivotal role during World War II.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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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 how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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