James Clerk Maxwell Statue on George Street, Edinburgh
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
The James Clerk Maxwell Statue stands proudly on George Street in Edinburgh, commemorating one of Scotland’s greatest scientists. Unveiled in 2008, this bronze sculpture by Alexander Stoddart captures Maxwell seated with his dog Toby at his feet and a spinning colour top in hand, symbolizing his pioneering work in electromagnetism and colour photography. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s elegant New Town, the statue celebrates Maxwell’s profound contributions to physics, which underpin modern technologies like radio, television, and mobile communications.
A brief summary to James Clerk Maxwell Statue
- 22-26 George St, Edinburgh, EH2 2PQ, GB
- +441312405000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the statue during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details and inscriptions on the plinth.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along George Street to explore its Georgian architecture and vibrant shops.
- Take time to read the bas-reliefs depicting Newton and Einstein to understand Maxwell’s scientific context.
- Explore nearby attractions such as the Royal Society of Edinburgh and St Andrew Square for a fuller cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 1, 3, or 23 to stops near St Andrew Square; from there, George Street is a short 5-minute walk. Bus services run frequently throughout the day with single fares around £1.80.
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Tram
Use the Edinburgh Trams service to St Andrew Square tram stop, located at the eastern end of George Street. Trams operate every 7-10 minutes, with tickets costing approximately £1.80 for a single journey.
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Walking
From Princes Street, a 10-15 minute flat walk along Queen Street Gardens and then north to George Street offers a pleasant route through central Edinburgh’s New Town.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in central Edinburgh and can bring you directly to George Street. Typical fares from Waverley Station to the statue area range from £6 to £10 depending on traffic.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about James Clerk Maxwell Statue
A Tribute to a Scientific Giant
The James Clerk Maxwell Statue, unveiled in 2008 and crafted by sculptor Alexander Stoddart, honors the legacy of one of the most influential physicists of the 19th century. Maxwell, born in Edinburgh in 1831, revolutionized science with his formulation of the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation, known as Maxwell’s equations. These equations laid the foundation for technologies such as radio, television, radar, and mobile phones, shaping the modern world. The statue depicts Maxwell seated thoughtfully, holding a spinning colour top—a nod to his groundbreaking work in colour perception and the first colour photograph produced in 1861. At his feet sits his faithful dog Toby, adding a personal touch to the monument.Location and Urban Context
Positioned on George Street, the statue is part of Edinburgh’s New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Georgian architecture and planned urban elegance. George Street itself is a grand boulevard stretching between St Andrew Square and Charlotte Square, lined with historic buildings, upscale boutiques, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. The street’s sophisticated atmosphere complements the statue’s tribute to intellectual achievement, situating Maxwell’s memory within a vibrant, historically rich urban setting. The statue’s plinth features bas-reliefs of Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein, symbolizing Maxwell’s place between these titans of science.Artistic and Symbolic Elements
Alexander Stoddart’s sculpture is notable for its classical style and rich symbolism. The colour top Maxwell holds represents his scientific exploration of colour theory, while the inscriptions on the plinth include the four Maxwell equations in differential form, underscoring the mathematical elegance of his work. The inclusion of Newton and Einstein in the side reliefs visually narrates the scientific continuum Maxwell belongs to, with Einstein famously acknowledging Maxwell’s profound influence on his own theories. This artistic layering invites reflection on the progression of scientific thought and Maxwell’s pivotal role.Maxwell’s Enduring Legacy
James Clerk Maxwell’s contributions extend beyond electromagnetism; he also made significant advances in mathematics, astronomy, and engineering. His pioneering work in electromagnetic waves was confirmed over a century later by NASA probes, validating his theories’ lasting impact. The statue serves not only as a memorial but as an educational symbol, reminding visitors of Maxwell’s role as the father of modern physics and his inspiration to subsequent generations of scientists. It stands as a testament to Edinburgh’s rich scientific heritage and Maxwell’s enduring global significance.Surrounding Attractions and Atmosphere
The statue is situated in a lively yet elegant part of Edinburgh, where Georgian architecture and modern commerce blend seamlessly. George Street’s vibrant atmosphere, with its mix of historic sites, luxury shops, and fine dining, offers visitors a rich cultural experience alongside the statue. Nearby landmarks include the Royal Society of Edinburgh and St Andrew Square, making the area a hub of intellectual and social activity. The statue’s setting invites contemplation amid the bustle of one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious streets.Commemorative Importance and Public Recognition
Though modest in size compared to Maxwell’s monumental scientific achievements, the statue’s presence on George Street fills a long-overdue gap in public recognition. Erected more than a century after Maxwell’s death, it acknowledges his profound influence on science and technology. The statue has become a focal point for those interested in the history of physics and Edinburgh’s cultural landscape, symbolizing the city’s pride in its native son and his groundbreaking discoveries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
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Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Classical
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Architectural Shots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
