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Allies Sculpture: Churchill and Roosevelt on New Bond Street

A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.

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The Allies sculpture on New Bond Street in London 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 artist Lawrence Holofcener and unveiled in 1995 by Princess Margaret, it commemorates 50 years of peace following World War II and celebrates the 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

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities without crowds.
  • Take a moment to sit on the bench between Churchill and Roosevelt for a unique photo.
  • Look for the brass plaque nearby to learn about the sculpture’s sponsors and unveiling.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions in Mayfair and shopping on New Bond Street.
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Getting There

  • London Underground

    Take the Central or Jubilee Line to Bond Street station, located within Travelcard Zone 1. From there, it is a 5-10 minute walk to New Bond Street where the sculpture is located. The station is well-served and accessible, with frequent trains running throughout the day. A single journey fare costs approximately £2.50 with an Oyster or contactless card.

  • Bus

    Multiple London bus routes stop near New Bond Street, including routes 2, 6, 7, 10, 13, 23, 30, 73, 74, 82, 94, 98, 113, 137, 139, 159, 189, 274, and 390. Buses run regularly with fares around £1.65 per journey using an Oyster or contactless card. Bus stops are within a short walking distance of the sculpture.

  • Taxi or Ride-Hailing

    A taxi or ride-hailing service can deliver you directly to New Bond Street. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares starting around £10, increasing during peak hours or heavy traffic.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in central London, walking to New Bond Street can be a pleasant option. The terrain is flat and accessible, with the sculpture located in a busy shopping district. Walking times vary but expect around 15-30 minutes from nearby landmarks such as Oxford Street or Piccadilly Circus.

Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt) location weather suitability

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An Intimate Tribute to Wartime Leadership

The Allies sculpture captures a unique moment of camaraderie between two of the 20th century’s most influential leaders, Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Unlike grandiose war memorials, this life-size bronze artwork presents the two statesmen seated side by side on a wooden bench, engaged in a relaxed and intimate conversation. Churchill is depicted with his trademark cigar, while Roosevelt holds a cigarette holder, symbolizing their distinctive personalities. The sculpture invites viewers to imagine the historic discussions that shaped the Allied victory in World War II.

Creation and Unveiling

Created by Lawrence Holofcener, an artist with dual American and British nationality, the sculpture was gifted to the City of Westminster by the Bond Street Association. It was unveiled on May 2, 1995, by Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, marking the 50th anniversary of peace after World War II. Holofcener, who began his sculpting career later in life, became renowned for his humanizing portraits of famous figures, with Allies being one of his most beloved public artworks.

Symbolism and Historical Significance

The sculpture embodies the special wartime alliance and enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and the United States. It commemorates the Atlantic Charter, a pivotal agreement issued in 1941 by Churchill and Roosevelt that outlined goals for peace, freedom, and security in the post-war world. The open space between the two figures allows visitors to sit alongside them, symbolizing the ongoing partnership and shared values between the two nations.

Location and Public Interaction

Situated a third of the way up New Bond Street, between Grafton Street and Clifford Street, the sculpture is a popular photo opportunity and a beloved landmark in London’s Mayfair district. Its accessible placement amidst the bustling shopping area encourages interaction, with many visitors choosing to sit between the two leaders for memorable photographs. The bronze has developed a polished shine from frequent contact, reflecting its popularity.

Artist’s Legacy and Copies

Lawrence Holofcener produced several copies of Allies, with one notable replica displayed outside the Cato Gallery in Hampstead until 2016 before being sold to a hotel in the Lake District. The original sculpture remains a testament to Holofcener’s ability to humanize historical figures and create approachable public art that resonates with audiences.

Commemorative Plaques and Recognition

Near the sculpture, a brass plaque embedded in the pavement details the sponsors and the unveiling ceremony. Another larger plaque lists the members of the Bond Street Association who funded the work. These markers emphasize the community effort behind the sculpture and its role as a symbol of peace and friendship.

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