Béla Bartók Memorial in South Kensington, London
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
The Béla Bartók Memorial, located at 9 Old Brompton Road in South Kensington, London, honors the legacy of the renowned Hungarian composer Béla Bartók. This bronze statue, crafted by celebrated Hungarian sculptor Imre Varga, depicts Bartók in a dapper suit and commemorates his visits to London, where he stayed during much of his career. Situated near South Kensington Underground Station, the memorial is a poignant cultural landmark celebrating Bartók's influence on 20th-century music.
A brief summary to Béla Bartók Memorial
- 9 Old Brompton Rd, London, South Kensington, SW5 9HL, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue’s detailed craftsmanship and inscriptions.
- Combine your visit with a walk to 7 Sydney Place to see the Blue Plaque marking Bartók’s London residence.
- Explore nearby cultural sites in South Kensington, including museums and concert venues, to deepen your musical experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly, Circle, or District Line to South Kensington Station, located just steps from the memorial. Travel times from central London stations range from 10 to 20 minutes. The station is wheelchair accessible, and no entrance fee applies.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including the 14, 49, and 70, stop near Old Brompton Road in South Kensington. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with typical journey times of 20 to 40 minutes from central London. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.75.
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Walking
If staying nearby, you can walk to the memorial from central South Kensington in about 10 to 15 minutes. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchair users, with paved sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.
Béla Bartók Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Béla Bartók Memorial
A Tribute to a Musical Pioneer
The Béla Bartók Memorial stands as a significant homage to one of the 20th century’s most influential composers. Born in Hungary in 1881, Bartók was a pioneering ethnomusicologist and composer whose work integrated folk music traditions with classical forms. This memorial in South Kensington, London, marks the city’s connection to Bartók, who first visited London in 1922 and frequently stayed here until 1937. The statue captures his dignified presence, dressed in a coat and hat, symbolizing his stature as a cultural figure bridging Hungarian and British musical worlds.Artistic Craftsmanship and Symbolism
Created by Imre Varga, an award-winning Hungarian sculptor, the bronze statue is detailed and lifelike, standing approximately seven feet tall. The memorial features a marble plinth with inscriptions honoring Bartók’s life and work, including acknowledgments of the Peter Warlock Society and the Hungarian Cultural Centre, who played key roles in its erection. The statue’s base includes a small bird motif on stainless steel leaves, adding a delicate artistic touch that evokes the natural inspirations behind much of Bartók’s folk music research.Historical Context and Location Significance
Originally unveiled in 2004 on a traffic island near South Kensington tube station, the statue was temporarily removed in 2009 due to roadworks but was reinstated nearby in 2011. Its location is historically resonant, situated close to 7 Sydney Place, where Bartók stayed during his London visits, now marked by an English Heritage Blue Plaque. This proximity to his former residence enriches the memorial’s significance, connecting visitors to the composer’s personal and creative life in London.Cultural Legacy and Visitor Experience
The memorial serves as a cultural touchstone for music lovers and visitors interested in early 20th-century classical music and ethnomusicology. It invites reflection on Bartók’s contributions to preserving folk traditions and advancing modern music. The site’s urban setting near South Kensington station makes it accessible for a brief contemplative visit or as part of a broader cultural exploration of London’s rich musical heritage.Commemorative Efforts and Community Involvement
The statue was funded and supported by a range of patrons, including music societies, cultural organizations, and private sponsors, reflecting a broad appreciation of Bartók’s enduring influence. The involvement of the Peter Warlock Society highlights the historical ties between Bartók and British composers, underscoring the cross-cultural exchange that shaped his career. This community effort ensures the memorial remains a vibrant reminder of Bartók’s artistic legacy.Continuing Inspiration and Artistic Presence
Beyond its commemorative purpose, the Béla Bartók Memorial stands as an artistic landmark in South Kensington. It complements other European statues of Bartók, such as those in Budapest, Paris, and Brussels, collectively celebrating his international impact. For visitors, the memorial offers a moment to connect with the composer’s spirit and the timeless power of music as a universal language.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Béla Bartók Memorial
0.0 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
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Albert Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Victoria and Albert Museum
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Natural History Museum
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Science Museum
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Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
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Imperial Cinema
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Knightsbridge
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Essential places to dine
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The Jam
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Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
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Grato
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Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
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Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
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Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
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Zuaya London
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Dishoom Kensington
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Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
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The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
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The Grenadier
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Alexandrie Restaurant
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Il Portico
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Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
V&A Shop
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The Natural History Museum Shop
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Science Museum Shop
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Urban Outfitters
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Jigsaw
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Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
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Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Kensington Palace Shop
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Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Good
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Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
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Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
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the Design Museum Shop
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the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
