Nelson's Monument, Glasgow: A Pioneering Tribute on Glasgow Green
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Nelson's Monument in Glasgow Green is a towering 44-meter obelisk commemorating Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson's naval victories. Erected in 1806, it was the first civic monument in Britain funded by public subscription to honor Nelson, predating London's famous tribute. Designed by David Hamilton, the monument bears inscriptions of Nelson's key battles and stands as a historic landmark within one of Glasgow's oldest parks.
A brief summary to Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
- Glasgow, G1 5QA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Glasgow Green early in the day to enjoy the monument in peaceful surroundings before the park becomes busier.
- Explore nearby landmarks like the People's Palace and Doulton Fountain to enrich your visit to Glasgow Green.
- Bring a camera to capture the monument’s impressive height and detailed inscriptions from various angles.
- Look out for the tablet honoring James Watt on the monument’s plinth, connecting Glasgow’s industrial heritage with naval history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Glasgow City Bus service 75 or 77 from the city center to Glasgow Green; the journey takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend variations. A single fare costs around £1.80 GBP.
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Train and Walk
From Glasgow Central Station, take a 10-minute train to Bridgeton Station, followed by a 10-minute walk across Glasgow Green to the monument. Train tickets cost about £2.50 GBP one way. The walk is on flat terrain and accessible.
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Taxi
A taxi from Glasgow city center to Nelson's Monument takes roughly 10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £6 and £10 GBP. Taxis provide direct and convenient access but may be subject to peak-time surcharges.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
A Historic Tribute to a Naval Hero
Nelson's Monument stands proudly on Glasgow Green, one of the oldest public parks in Britain dating back to 1450. Erected in 1806, just a year after Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson's death at the Battle of Trafalgar, it marks a pioneering moment in civic commemoration as the first public monument in Britain funded by popular subscription. This early tribute reflects the deep respect and admiration Glaswegians held for Nelson, a key figure in British naval history and the Napoleonic Wars.Architectural Grandeur Inspired by Antiquity
The monument’s design draws inspiration from Roman architecture, particularly Trajan’s Column. Crafted by renowned architect David Hamilton, known as the 'Father of the Profession,' it features a Doric column rising 44 meters (144 feet) topped by an urn symbolizing Nelson’s funeral statue at St Paul’s Cathedral. The square plinth is inscribed on all sides: one side honors Nelson’s name and title, while the other three sides commemorate his victories at the battles of Aboukir, Copenhagen, and Trafalgar. The entire structure is enclosed by cast-iron railings, adding to its stately presence.Stories Etched in Stone and History
Shortly after its completion, the monument was struck by lightning, causing a long crack that became a notable part of its history. This event was immortalized in a painting by John Knox, now housed in the nearby People's Palace Museum. In 1965, a tablet was added to honor James Watt, commemorating his reflections on Glasgow Green that inspired improvements to the steam engine. The monument’s designation as a category A listed building in 1970 affirms its architectural and historic significance.Experiencing the Monument Today
Situated centrally within Glasgow Green, Nelson's Monument is accessible at all hours, inviting visitors to appreciate its imposing form and historical inscriptions amid the park’s tranquil greenery. While the monument itself is not open for climbing, its commanding height and detailed inscriptions can be admired from all angles during a leisurely stroll. The surrounding park offers a peaceful setting that enhances the monument’s contemplative atmosphere.Glasgow Green: A Cultural and Historic Landscape
Glasgow Green, the setting for the monument, is a vibrant public space rich with history and other landmarks such as the People's Palace and the Doulton Fountain. The park’s long heritage as a gathering place for civic events and leisure complements the monument’s role as a symbol of public pride and remembrance. Together, they form a cultural tapestry that highlights Glasgow’s evolution from its industrial roots to a city valuing heritage and public space.A Lasting Legacy of Civic Pride
Nelson's Monument not only commemorates a national hero but also marks a significant chapter in Glasgow’s civic history. It embodies the power of public subscription and community spirit in shaping the city’s landscape. As one of the earliest monuments dedicated to Nelson worldwide, it stands as a testament to Glasgow’s historical importance and the enduring legacy of Admiral Nelson’s naval triumphs.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
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A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
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Glasgow City Heritage Trust
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George Square
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Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
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Unmissable attractions to see
Doulton Fountain
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McLennan Arch
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St Andrew's in the Square
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Glasgow Green
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Barras Market
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Barrowland Park
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Barrowland Ballroom
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o2 accadamy
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Tron Theatre
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Clutha & Victoria Bar
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Trongate
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"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
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Blackfriars of Bell Street
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Essential places to dine
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
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Mono
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Boteco Do Brasil
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Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
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Cafe Gandolfi
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The Dhabba
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Bar Soba Merchant City
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Table Twenty Eight
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Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
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Turkiye EFES Restaurant
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The Italian Kitchen
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Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
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Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
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Saints of Ingram
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Modern Love Store
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Never miss a gift
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Mr Ben Retro Clothing
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A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Minted
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Boots
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Social Recluse
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Shop local
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Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
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Co-op Food - Glasgow - Crown Street
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Grab n Go convenience store
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Pride of Glasgow
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The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
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Frida and Coco
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The Clydeside Collective
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pig 'n' Whistle
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Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
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Bar 91
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Steps Bar
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Cairns Bar
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Bacchus Bar
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Speakeasy
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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AXM Glasgow
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Club X
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Delmonicas
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La Cheetah Club
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Sub Club
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Classic Grand
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Cathouse Rock Club
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Platinum Lace Glasgow
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Kokomo Glasgow
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- 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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
