Edith Cavell Memorial
A powerful tribute to a nurse whose courage and compassion left an indelible mark on history.
The Edith Cavell Memorial in St Martin's Place, London, honors the British nurse executed during World War I for helping Allied soldiers escape occupied Belgium. The striking monument features a white marble statue of Cavell and a towering granite pylon inscribed with her famous words: 'Patriotism is not enough, I must have no hatred or bitterness for anyone.' Surrounded by historic landmarks, the memorial stands as a poignant tribute to courage, sacrifice, and humanitarian values.
A brief summary to Edith Cavell Memorial
- 10 St. Martin's Pl, London, WC2N 4JL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest crowds and enjoy a more contemplative atmosphere.
- Take time to read the inscriptions on the memorial, especially the famous quote by Edith Cavell, for a deeper understanding of her legacy.
- Combine your visit with a walk through nearby Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery for a full cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Trafalgar Square, walk north along the east side of the square, passing the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery. The memorial is directly opposite the National Portrait Gallery, just across the road in St Martin's Place. The walk takes about 5 minutes and is fully accessible.
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Public Transport
Take the Underground to Charing Cross station (Northern and Bakerloo lines). Exit the station and walk east along the Strand, then turn left into St Martin's Place. The memorial is about a 7-minute walk from the station, with step-free access throughout.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Trafalgar Square, including the 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 87, 88, 139, 159, and 453. From the stop, walk north along the east side of Trafalgar Square to reach St Martin's Place. The walk takes about 5 minutes.
Edith Cavell Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Edith Cavell Memorial
A Monument to Courage and Humanity
Standing in St Martin's Place, just north of Trafalgar Square, the Edith Cavell Memorial is a powerful tribute to a nurse whose actions during World War I resonated far beyond the battlefield. Edith Cavell, a British nurse working in Belgium, became known for her bravery in helping Allied soldiers escape German-occupied territory. Her execution in 1915 shocked the world and turned her into a symbol of selfless sacrifice and moral integrity. The memorial, unveiled in 1920, captures the gravity of her story and the enduring impact of her legacy.Design and Symbolism
The memorial was designed by Sir George Frampton in a distinctive Modernist style. At its heart is a ten-foot statue of Cavell in her nurse's uniform, carved from white Carrara marble and set upon a grey Cornish granite pedestal. Behind her rises a 40-foot granite pylon, weighing 175 tons, topped with a cross and a sculpture of a mother and child, sometimes interpreted as the Virgin and Child. The inscriptions on the pylon—'Humanity', 'Devotion', 'Fortitude', 'Sacrifice', and 'Faithful until death'—reflect the values Cavell embodied. The most famous words, 'Patriotism is not enough, I must have no hatred or bitterness for anyone,' were added in 1924 after public petitioning and remain a central message of the monument.Historical Significance
Edith Cavell's story is one of quiet heroism and ethical conviction. She was arrested for aiding the escape of Allied soldiers, a crime that led to her execution by firing squad at dawn on October 12, 1915. Her death became a rallying point for Allied propaganda and helped galvanize public opinion during the war. The memorial's location, near the first headquarters of the British Red Cross, underscores her connection to humanitarian efforts. The monument's Grade I listing recognizes its importance as one of the earliest war memorials to commemorate an individual woman, making it a rare and significant landmark in British history.Visitor Experience
The memorial is situated in a bustling part of central London, surrounded by cultural institutions like the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. Visitors can reflect on Cavell's legacy in a quiet corner of the city, away from the crowds of Trafalgar Square. The inscriptions invite contemplation, and the monument's imposing presence encourages a sense of reverence. The site is accessible at all hours, making it a place for both spontaneous visits and organized remembrance ceremonies.Legacy and Impact
Edith Cavell's influence extends far beyond the memorial itself. Her actions helped raise the profile of nursing as a profession and inspired countless others to serve with compassion and courage. The memorial serves as a reminder of the power of individual action in times of crisis and the enduring importance of humanitarian values. It continues to be a place of reflection and inspiration for visitors from around the world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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Location Audience
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