The Enigmatic Golden Boy of Pye Corner: A Must-See London Landmark
Explore the Golden Boy of Pye Corner, a historic London landmark symbolizing resilience after the Great Fire of 1666.
A brief summary to Golden Boy of Pye Corner
- Giltspur St, London, EC1A 9DD, GB
- 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
The Golden Boy of Pye Corner is a small yet significant landmark located in the heart of London, serving as a symbol of the city's resilience following the Great Fire of 1666. This charming statue, depicting a young boy holding a torch, is positioned at the intersection of Pye Corner and Giltspur Street, a site steeped in history. Originally erected in 1669, the statue marks the spot where the Great Fire was famously stopped, embodying the spirit of renewal and hope for the city’s inhabitants. Tourists flock to this hidden gem not only for its historical significance but also for the charming ambiance that surrounds it. As you stand before the Golden Boy, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the statue, which has undergone several restorations over the centuries. The area around Pye Corner is perfect for leisurely strolls, with quaint cafes and shops nearby that invite you to pause and soak in the atmosphere. Capture memorable photographs against the backdrop of this iconic figure, but be sure to also explore the surrounding streets, rich with stories and architectural marvels that reflect London's diverse heritage. Visiting the Golden Boy of Pye Corner is not just about seeing a statue; it's about immersing yourself in a piece of London's history. Whether you're a history buff or a casual tourist, this landmark offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past, making it a worthwhile stop on your London adventure.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
- Combine your visit with a walking tour of the surrounding historic areas to enrich your experience.
- Look for nearby cafes where you can enjoy a traditional English tea after your visit to the statue.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to read the plaque nearby that provides more insights into the statue's history.
Getting There
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Tube
Start your journey by heading to any London Underground station. If you're near central London, a convenient starting point is Oxford Circus station. Take the Bakerloo Line (brown line) towards Elephant & Castle. Alight at Charing Cross station after 2 stops. At Charing Cross, transfer to the Northern Line (black line) and head north towards Edgware. Alight at Bank station after 1 stop. From Bank station, transfer to the Central Line (red line) towards Liverpool Street. Alight at St. Paul's station after 2 stops.
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Walking
Upon exiting St. Paul's station, turn left onto St. Martin's le Grand. Follow the road straight until you reach the intersection with Giltspur Street. Turn right onto Giltspur Street, and you will find the Golden Boy of Pye Corner on your left, just a short walk away. The landmark is located at Giltspur St, London EC1A 9DD.
Attractions Nearby to Golden Boy of Pye Corner
- Holy Sepulchre Church
- St Bartholomew the Less
- Barts Heritage
- St Bartholomew's Hospital Museum
- Sir William Wallace Memorial
- Great Rising of 1381 Memorial
- St Bartholomew's Gatehouse
- Christchurch Greyfriars Churchyard
- Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden
- St Bartholomew the Great
- Holborn viaduct
- Postman's Park
- St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
- Stationers' Hall
- Paternoster Square Column
Landmarks nearby to Golden Boy of Pye Corner
- London City Wall - Bastion 14
- St. Paul's Cathedral
- London City wall
- Guildhall Library
- Victoria Embankment
- Monument Queen Victoria
- King's Reach commemoration memorial
- Bomber Harris Memorial
- Historic England
- South Bank Community Area
- Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
- Hidden London - Aldwych Station
- National Trust - Strand Lane "Roman Bath"
- The Old Watch House
- Observation Point