Statue of John Biggs at Welford Place, Leicester
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
The John Biggs statue stands prominently at Welford Place in Leicester, commemorating one of the city's most influential Victorian political figures. Crafted from Sicilian marble and unveiled in 1873, the statue honors Biggs’s legacy as a reformer, industrialist, and three-time mayor. Situated on a pedestrian refuge where Belvoir Street curves into Welford Road, this historic landmark offers insight into Leicester’s civic history and 19th-century social reform movements.
A brief summary to Welford Place
- Welford Pl, Leicester, LE1 6ZH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best views and photography opportunities of the statue and surrounding area.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Welford Road to explore Leicester’s Victorian architecture and nearby landmarks.
- Use public transport or nearby parking facilities, as Welford Place is located on a busy city street with limited parking.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Leicester City Bus services 42 or 43, which stop within a 5-minute walk of Welford Place. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes from the city center. A single ticket costs approximately £2.50.
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Train and Walk
From Leicester Railway Station, it is about a 20-minute walk to Welford Place through the city center. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing shops and cafes. No additional cost beyond train fare.
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Taxi
Local taxi services can reach Welford Place in 10-15 minutes from central Leicester. Fares typically range from £6 to £10 depending on traffic.
Welford Place location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Welford Place
A Tribute to a Victorian Reformer
The statue of John Biggs at Welford Place is a significant historical monument dedicated to a man who shaped Leicester’s political and social landscape in the 19th century. John Biggs (1801–1871) was a prominent industrialist and radical politician who championed parliamentary reform and workers’ rights. His efforts to improve the knitting industry by introducing a fairer levy system and his leadership roles, including three terms as mayor, made him a key figure in Leicester’s development during the Victorian era.Artistic Craftsmanship and Historical Significance
Unveiled on April 15, 1873, the statue was sculpted by George Anderson Lawson from Sicilian marble. Originally funded by public subscription, it symbolizes the respect and admiration Biggs commanded in his lifetime. Although the original statue suffered decay by the late 1920s, its presence continues to mark the site as a place of civic pride and historical remembrance. Positioned on a pedestrian refuge at a busy junction, it remains a distinctive landmark within the urban fabric of Leicester.John Biggs’s Life and Legacy
Biggs’s life was marked by dedication to social justice and political reform. A lifelong Unitarian, he believed in business serving society rather than dominating it. His political career included advocating for wider land ownership and parliamentary representation for industrial workers and artisans. Despite personal tragedies and financial difficulties later in life, his impact on Leicester’s governance and industry endures. He was buried at Welford Road Cemetery, with his statue serving as a lasting memorial.The Statue’s Urban Context and Visitor Experience
Located where Belvoir Street becomes Welford Road, the statue occupies a small but prominent traffic island known as Welford Place. Visitors can appreciate the statue’s fine details and the historical narrative it represents amid the bustle of the city. The surrounding area reflects Leicester’s Victorian heritage and offers a glimpse into the city’s evolution from an industrial hub to a modern urban center.Preservation and Cultural Importance
The statue is listed on the National Heritage List for England, underscoring its cultural and historical value. It stands not only as a tribute to John Biggs but also as a symbol of Leicester’s rich civic history and the broader movements for social reform in 19th-century Britain. Efforts to maintain and preserve the statue ensure that future generations can connect with this important chapter of local heritage.Engaging with Leicester’s Past
Engaging with the John Biggs statue offers visitors a tangible link to Leicester’s Victorian past. It invites reflection on the city’s industrial roots, the challenges of social reform, and the individuals who shaped its trajectory. The statue’s presence in a busy urban setting creates a striking contrast between past and present, enhancing its role as a focal point for historical education and civic identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welford Place
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Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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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
