Temple Bar Memorial: Commemorating Queen Victoria’s Historic City Gateway
Historic gateway memorial with majestic statues of Queen Victoria and Edward VII, crowned by the iconic City of London dragon.
The Temple Bar Memorial, erected in 1880 at the junction of Fleet Street and Strand in London, marks the historic site of the original Temple Bar gateway that once served as the ceremonial entrance to the City of London. Featuring bronze statues of Queen Victoria and her son Edward VII by Sir Joseph Boehm, topped with a symbolic dragon, the monument celebrates royal visits and the City’s rich heritage.
A brief summary to Monument Queen Victoria
- Temple Avenue, London, Temple, EC4Y 9AY, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the detailed bronze reliefs and statues.
- Be cautious crossing the busy road junction where the memorial is located.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like the Royal Courts of Justice and St Paul’s Cathedral.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central or District Line to Temple Station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to the memorial. The station is well connected but can be busy during peak hours. No additional cost beyond standard fare zones applies.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including routes 11, 15, and 23, stop near Fleet Street and Strand. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses operate frequently but may be affected by road congestion.
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Walking
If you are in central London, walking is an excellent option. From St Paul’s Cathedral, it takes about 10 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The area is pedestrian-friendly but be aware of traffic when crossing roads near the memorial.
Monument Queen Victoria 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 Monument Queen Victoria
Origins and Historical Significance of Temple Bar
The Temple Bar Memorial stands where the original Temple Bar gateway once guarded the boundary between the City of London and Westminster. The gateway, attributed to Sir Christopher Wren and constructed in the late 17th century, was removed in 1878 due to traffic obstruction. The memorial was erected in 1880 to mark this historic site, preserving the ceremonial importance of the location where monarchs were traditionally welcomed by the Lord Mayor of London. It symbolizes the City’s unique administrative status and its historic relationship with the British monarchy.Artistic Features and Symbolism
Designed by City Architect Sir Horace Jones, the memorial is crowned by a large bronze dragon, the emblem of the City of London, clutching a shield bearing the Cross of St George. The dragon, often mistaken for a griffin, represents the City’s guardianship and pride. On the north and south sides are bronze statues of Queen Victoria and her son Edward VII, sculpted by Sir Joseph Boehm. Victoria is depicted in regal robes holding the orb and sceptre, symbols of her monarchy, while Edward is shown in a Field Marshal’s uniform. The monument’s base features intricate reliefs by Charles Mabey and Samuel Kelsey, illustrating key royal progresses and events connected to the City.Commemorating Royal Visits and City Ceremonies
The reliefs on the memorial capture significant moments such as Queen Victoria’s first visit to the City in 1837, where she was presented with the sword of state and keys to the City, and the 1872 thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral following the Prince of Wales’s recovery from typhoid. These scenes highlight the ceremonial tradition of royal entries into the City, underscoring Temple Bar’s role as the historic gateway for such occasions. The memorial also honors the Lord Mayor of London at the time of its erection, Sir Francis Wyatt Truscott, whose portrait and coat of arms adorn the monument.Location and Urban Context
Situated in the middle of a busy road junction near the Royal Courts of Justice, the Temple Bar Memorial marks the boundary between the City of London’s financial district and the West End. Despite being somewhat isolated on a traffic island, it remains a striking Victorian landmark amid the urban bustle. The memorial’s detailed carvings include allegories of peace and war, arts and sciences, and figures representing the City’s cultural heritage, blending Victorian artistry with civic pride.Legacy and Preservation
Though the original Temple Bar gateway was relocated to Paternoster Square in 2004, the memorial continues to serve as a symbolic reminder of the City’s historic boundaries and royal connections. It has undergone cleaning and conservation efforts to protect its intricate sculptures from pollution damage. The Temple Bar Memorial remains a focal point for understanding London’s ceremonial traditions and the enduring legacy of Queen Victoria’s reign within the City.Exploring the Details Up Close
Visitors who take time to study the memorial will notice the rich symbolism embedded in its design—from the mythical dragon guarding the City’s treasures to the detailed bronze reliefs depicting historic royal progresses. The memorial invites reflection on London’s layered history, the evolution of its urban landscape, and the ceremonial customs that continue to define the City’s identity today.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
