The Great Escape
A powerful bronze horse symbolising freedom and human liberation at Liverpool's historic waterfront.
A striking bronze horse sculpture cast from rope by artist Edward Cronshaw, standing at the corner of Liver Street and Strand Street in Liverpool's waterfront district. Created in 2000, this 15-foot tall, 4-ton equine figure symbolises humanity's struggle for freedom and liberation from oppression. Located opposite the Albert Dock, it has become one of Liverpool's most distinctive public artworks, blending industrial heritage with contemporary artistic vision.
A brief summary to 'The Great Escape' statue
- Strand St, Liver St, Liverpool, L1 8JX, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) when sunlight creates dramatic shadows across the rope-textured bronze surface, enhancing the sculpture's visual impact and providing excellent photography opportunities.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions including the Albert Dock, Tate Liverpool, and the Museum of Liverpool, all within walking distance, to experience Liverpool's cultural offerings in a single outing.
- Take time to walk around the sculpture from multiple angles to appreciate the anatomical detail and the interplay of light on the textured bronze surface, which reveals different aspects of Cronshaw's craftsmanship.
- The waterfront location can be windy; dress accordingly and be prepared for potentially wet conditions, particularly during autumn and winter months when Liverpool experiences frequent rainfall.
- Check local event calendars, as the waterfront area frequently hosts festivals, markets, and cultural events that may enhance your visit or create additional crowds during peak seasons.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
From Liverpool city centre, take any bus heading towards the waterfront or Albert Dock area. Journey time is typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Single journey fares range from £1.75 to £2.50 GBP depending on the operator and distance travelled. The sculpture is a short walk from the main bus stops near the Albert Dock.
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Walking
From Liverpool Lime Street railway station, walk northwest towards the waterfront via Whitechapel and Dale Street, a journey of approximately 15–20 minutes on level, well-maintained urban pavements. The route is accessible year-round and passes through the city centre. From the Albert Dock visitor area, the sculpture is a 5-minute walk along Strand Street towards Liver Street.
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Merseyrail Train
Take the Merseyrail to James Street station, which serves the waterfront area. Journey times vary depending on your origin but typically range from 5–15 minutes from central Liverpool. Single fares are approximately £1.75–£2.50 GBP. Exit the station and walk 10 minutes along the waterfront towards Strand Street and Liver Street.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services operate throughout Liverpool. Journey time from the city centre is typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £6–£12 GBP for short journeys. Drop-off is available on Strand Street or nearby streets, with the sculpture visible from the main road.
'The Great Escape' statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about 'The Great Escape' statue
A Monument to Human Struggle
The Great Escape is a monumental bronze horse sculpture created by artist Edward Cronshaw in 2000, standing prominently at the corner of Liver Street and Strand Street near Liverpool's historic waterfront. Rising 15 feet high and weighing 4 tons, this anatomically detailed equine figure has become an iconic symbol of the city's artistic landscape. The sculpture's powerful form was originally fashioned in rope before being cast in bronze, a technique that gives the finished work a distinctive textured quality that catches light and shadow throughout the day.Symbolism and Artistic Vision
The sculpture's title and form carry profound meaning, symbolising man's struggle to free himself from slavery and oppression. Cronshaw's choice to depict a horse—an animal historically bound to labour and servitude—speaks to themes of liberation, resilience, and the human desire for freedom. The work transcends simple representation, functioning as a meditation on emancipation and the breaking of chains. This thematic depth has resonated with visitors and residents alike, transforming it from a mere public artwork into a meaningful cultural landmark that invites reflection.Location and Urban Context
Positioned opposite the Albert Dock, one of Liverpool's most visited destinations, The Great Escape occupies a strategically significant spot in the city's cultural geography. The waterfront setting connects the sculpture to Liverpool's maritime heritage and its historical role as a major port city. The proximity to the dock area, with its mix of museums, galleries, and heritage attractions, places this artwork within a broader narrative of Liverpool's transformation from industrial powerhouse to cultural destination. The sculpture's placement on Strand Street ensures it captures the attention of both deliberate visitors and passing pedestrians.Craftsmanship and Technical Achievement
The creation of The Great Escape represents a significant technical achievement in bronze casting. The process of translating the rope-formed original into a permanent bronze casting required considerable skill and precision. The resulting surface texture, which retains the character of the rope prototype, gives the sculpture a unique visual and tactile quality that distinguishes it from conventional equestrian monuments. This attention to detail and innovative approach to material transformation reflects Cronshaw's commitment to creating work that challenges conventional artistic boundaries.Integration with Liverpool's Sculpture Trail
The Great Escape exists within Liverpool's broader ecosystem of public sculpture, a city renowned for its commitment to outdoor contemporary art. Alongside other notable works such as the SuperLambBanana, A Case History (the Hope Street Suitcases), and Waiting (the Monument to the Liverpool Working Horse), this sculpture contributes to a rich tapestry of artistic expression throughout the city. These works collectively tell stories of Liverpool's identity, heritage, and cultural aspirations, making the city a destination for those interested in public art and urban sculpture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
'The Great Escape' statue
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A powerful bronze horse symbolising freedom and human liberation at Liverpool's historic waterfront.
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Museum of Liverpool
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Unmissable attractions to see
Liverpool City Sights Tour Bus
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Beatles Magical Mystery Tour
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Liverpool's longest-running Beatles tour: visit iconic homes, legendary landmarks, and the Cavern Club where it all began.
Salthouse Quay
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Nordic Church and Cultural Centre
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Dukes Dock Liverpool
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One of Britain’s oldest docks, Duke's Dock blends historic canal heritage with tranquil riverside leisure in Liverpool’s city centre.
The Dock Traffic Office, Liverpool
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Historic Grade I listed Dock Traffic Office in Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, a symbol of maritime heritage and Victorian industrial design.
Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
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A beautifully restored 19th-century dock turned vibrant waterfront hub of culture, dining, and history on the River Mersey.
Liverpool wheel
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Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront from the 60-meter Wheel of Liverpool at Royal Albert Dock.
Magical Mystery Tour
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Explore Liverpool’s Beatles heritage on the iconic Magical Mystery Tour, visiting legendary sites from childhood homes to the world-famous Cavern Club.
The Beatles Story Museum, Liverpool
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Pump House
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Wheel Of Liverpool
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Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront from the 60-meter-high Wheel of Liverpool.
Maritime Museum
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Explore Liverpool’s maritime past at the free Merseyside Maritime Museum, nestled in the historic and vibrant Royal Albert Dock.
Liverpool ONE
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Liverpool ONE: The UK’s largest open-air shopping and leisure hub in the vibrant heart of Liverpool city centre.
RENNIE BRIDGE
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Historic iron swing footbridge linking Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, showcasing John Rennie’s engineering legacy and maritime heritage.
Essential places to dine
Floating Grace
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Madre
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Miller & Carter Albert Dock
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The Exchange Restaurant
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Elegant British dining with seasonal menus and scenic park views at Hilton Liverpool City Centre’s premier restaurant.
Churrasco Steak House - City - Liverpool
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Revolución de Cuba Liverpool
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Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Revolución de Cuba Liverpool—where vibrant culture meets exquisite flavors in a lively lounge setting.
Maray Albert Dock
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Mediterranean and Middle Eastern small plates in a vibrant waterfront setting at Liverpool’s historic Royal Albert Dock.
Amalia - Italian Restaurant Liverpool
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Amalia, Liverpool’s beloved family-inspired Italian restaurant in Campbell Square.
Gusto Italian
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Stylish Italian dining in Liverpool’s Edward Pavilion, blending classic Milanese flavors with a sleek, inviting atmosphere.
Salt House Tapas
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Lunyalita
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Albert's Schenke
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Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Albert Dock
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Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Liverpool
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Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature dishes in a stylish, lively brasserie setting at Liverpool ONE’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar.
PANAM Restaurant & Bar
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Savor Scouse stew and craft cocktails amid Albert Dock's glittering waters—PANAM blends Liverpool's maritime soul with vibrant brunches and live music nights.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Fab4 Store
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Liverpool's ultimate Beatles emporium: official merch, rare finds, and Fab Four magic at Albert Dock's heart.
Off The List Luxury
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Discreet luxury watch boutique in Liverpool's business heart, offering Rolex Datejust and elite timepieces with expert, professional service.
Oliver Bonas
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Colourful, design-led fashion and homeware in Liverpool ONE — a boutique atmosphere for stylish gifts and everyday statement pieces.
Annabel's Accessories
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Fashion accessories in Liverpool's historic Royal Albert Dock, blending style with UNESCO heritage at The Colonnades.
With Love From Liverpool
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Liverpool's ultimate souvenir haven in the Royal Albert Dock, brimming with Beatles treasures, Scouse spirit, and authentic gifts that capture the city's unbeatable vibe.
Nature's Treasure
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Intimate jewellery boutique in The Colonnades, offering handcrafted pieces, bespoke commissions and restoration inside Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock.
Utility
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The Nest Liverpool
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Urban Outfitters
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Lost Soles
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Pride of Liverpool
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KENJI Liverpool ONE
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Menkind
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Revolution Liverpool - Albert Dock
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Baltic Fleet
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The Long Shot Bar
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The Bierkeller Liverpool
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Brass Monkey
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Present Company
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Motel Bar
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The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
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The Duck and Swagger
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Soho Bar Liverpool
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Aura
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Cool It
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
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
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
