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Allies Sculpture: Churchill and Roosevelt on New Bond Street

An intimate bronze sculpture of Churchill and Roosevelt sharing a bench, symbolizing 50 years of peace and the enduring UK-US alliance on London’s New Bond Street.

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The Allies sculpture is a life-size bronze artwork depicting Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt seated together on a bench, engaged in relaxed conversation. Created by Anglo-American sculptor Lawrence Holofcener and unveiled by Princess Margaret in 1995, it commemorates 50 years of peace following World War II. Located on New Bond Street in London’s Mayfair district, this intimate monument invites visitors to sit between the two iconic leaders, symbolizing the enduring 'special relationship' between the UK and the USA.

A brief summary to Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)

  • 51°30′38″N 0°08′33″W, New Bond St, London, W1S 2RE, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the sculpture’s details and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of New Bond Street.
  • Take a photo sitting between Churchill and Roosevelt to capture a unique souvenir of this iconic monument.
  • Look for the nearby plaque on the pavement listing the Bond Street Association members who sponsored the sculpture.
  • Combine your visit with exploring the luxury shops and galleries in Mayfair for a full cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • London Underground

    Take the Central or Jubilee line to Bond Street station, located in Travelcard Zone 1. From there, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the sculpture on New Bond Street. The station is fully accessible with lifts. Typical fare ranges from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on ticket type.

  • Bus

    Multiple London bus routes serve the area around New Bond Street, including routes 2, 6, 7, 10, and 13. Buses run frequently with journey times varying from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Contactless payment and Oyster cards are accepted.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Licensed London taxis and rideshare services can drop you off near New Bond Street. Travel times vary with traffic but typically range from 10 to 25 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares from approximately £8 to £20.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby in Mayfair or Soho, walking to the sculpture is a pleasant option. The terrain is flat and paved, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Walking times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point.

Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt) location weather suitability

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Discover more about Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)

A Unique Tribute to Wartime Friendship

The Allies sculpture captures a historic moment of camaraderie between two of the 20th century’s most influential leaders: British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Unlike many grand, imposing war memorials, this life-size bronze artwork presents the two statesmen in a casual, approachable manner, seated side-by-side on a wooden bench as if deep in friendly conversation. The sculpture was created by Lawrence Holofcener, an artist with dual American and British nationality, and was unveiled on May 2, 1995, by Princess Margaret to mark the 50th anniversary of peace following World War II.

Artistic Details and Symbolism

Holofcener’s design emphasizes intimacy and human connection. Churchill is depicted holding his trademark cigar, while Roosevelt holds a cigarette holder, both with subtle smiles suggesting a shared joke or moment of understanding. The space between them is intentionally left open, inviting visitors to sit and symbolically join the dialogue between these historic allies. This interactive aspect has made the sculpture a beloved photo opportunity and a popular stop for tourists and Londoners alike.

Historical Context and Legacy

The sculpture commemorates the vital alliance that shaped the outcome of World War II and the post-war world order. Churchill and Roosevelt’s partnership was instrumental in defeating the Axis powers and establishing the Atlantic Charter, which laid out principles for peace and security. The monument stands as a reminder of the enduring 'special relationship' between the United Kingdom and the United States. It was a gift from the Bond Street Association to the City of Westminster and the people of London, with a plaque nearby listing the association’s members who sponsored the work.

Location and Visitor Experience

Situated on New Bond Street between Grafton Street and Clifford Street in the upscale Mayfair neighborhood, the sculpture is easily accessible amidst one of London’s premier shopping districts. The bronze figures have developed a polished sheen from countless visitors who have sat between them for photographs. The setting combines the bustle of a fashionable urban street with a moment of reflective calm, making the sculpture a unique cultural landmark.

Artist Background and Cultural Impact

Lawrence Holofcener, who began his sculpting career relatively late, gained recognition for his life-size portraits of famous figures. Allies remains one of his most celebrated works, blending historical significance with approachable artistry. The sculpture’s popularity has led to several smaller replicas and copies, including one sold at auction for a record price. Its presence on Bond Street continues to inspire reflection on leadership, friendship, and peace.

Enduring Symbol of Peace and Cooperation

Beyond commemorating a historical alliance, the sculpture invites contemplation of the values that underpin international cooperation. It stands not only as a tribute to two leaders but as a symbol of hope for peaceful collaboration in the future. Visitors often find themselves drawn into the scene, experiencing a personal connection to history through this evocative and accessible work of public art.

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