Boadicea and Her Daughters Statue, London
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proudly on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Located on the Victoria Embankment near Westminster Bridge, the Boadicea and Her Daughters statue is a striking bronze sculpture depicting the ancient Celtic warrior queen Boudica and her two daughters riding a scythed chariot. Created by Thomas Thornycroft and unveiled in 1902, it commemorates Boudica’s fierce revolt against Roman rule in Britain and stands as a powerful symbol of British resilience and history.
A brief summary to Boadicea and Her Daughters
- Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2JH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and capture the statue with soft natural light.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like the Palace of Westminster and the London Eye for a full historical experience.
- Look closely at the chariot wheels’ scythes—an unusual and striking feature symbolizing Celtic warfare.
- Read the inscriptions on the granite plinth to understand the statue’s historical and poetic significance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Jubilee, District, or Circle lines to Westminster Station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the statue. The station is fully accessible, and trains run frequently with fares ranging from £2.50 to £5 depending on zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes including 11, 24, 148, and 211 stop near Westminster Bridge. Buses run every 5-15 minutes with a single fare of £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment. Note that buses can be slower during peak hours.
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River Boat
Riverboat services stop at Westminster Pier, adjacent to the statue. This scenic option takes 20-40 minutes from various piers along the Thames, with fares from £7 to £15. Service frequency varies seasonally.
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Walking
From Parliament Square or the London Eye, it is a 10-15 minute walk along the Victoria Embankment to the statue. The route is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Boadicea and Her Daughters location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Boadicea and Her Daughters
A Monument to a Legendary Warrior Queen
The Boadicea and Her Daughters statue represents Boudica, the queen of the Iceni tribe who led a major uprising against Roman occupation in Britain around 60-61 AD. This bronze group sculpture shows Boudica standing boldly in a chariot drawn by two rearing horses, holding a spear and gesturing fiercely forward. Her two daughters crouch protectively beside her, bare-breasted and youthful, embodying both strength and vulnerability. The statue captures the spirit of rebellion and the tragic heroism of one of Britain's oldest historical figures.Artistic Vision and Historical Context
The statue is the magnum opus of Thomas Thornycroft, a celebrated English sculptor and engineer, who began work on the piece in the 1850s. Inspired by parallels between Boudica and Queen Victoria—both symbols of victory—the statue was commissioned with royal support from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Thornycroft completed a full-size model before his death in 1885, but the bronze casting and installation were delayed until 1902, when the statue was finally erected on a granite plinth designed by Thomas Graham Jackson.Symbolism and Location Irony
Situated on the north side of the western end of Westminster Bridge, the statue faces the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, placing Boudica in the heart of modern British political power. This location is deeply ironic, as Boudica’s forces famously razed Londinium—ancient London—during her revolt. The statue’s chariot wheels are fitted with scythes, symbolizing the deadly charge she led against the Romans. Inscriptions on the plinth include a poetic tribute from William Cowper, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the lands "Caesar never knew."Design Details and Sculptural Features
The bronze sculpture is larger than life, with dynamic movement captured in the horses’ rearing poses and Boudica’s flowing gown. The chariot is light and agile, with out-thrust curved blades on the wheels designed to cut down enemies, reflecting historical descriptions of Celtic war chariots. The daughters’ bare breasts and long hair emphasize their youth and vulnerability, contrasting with their mother’s fierce stance. The statue’s intricate details highlight Thornycroft’s skill and the Victorian era’s romanticized view of ancient British history.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Since its unveiling, the statue has become one of London’s iconic landmarks, symbolizing British independence, resilience, and imperial identity at the height of the British Empire. It commemorates not only Boudica’s rebellion but also the complex history of Roman Britain and the enduring spirit of resistance. The statue is Grade II listed, reflecting its cultural and historical importance.Surrounding Environment and Visitor Experience
The statue stands amidst a bustling area frequented by tourists and commuters alike, near Westminster Pier and close to other historic sites such as Parliament Square and the London Eye. Despite its prominence, the granite plinth is sometimes obscured by souvenir stalls. Visitors can appreciate the statue’s powerful presence against the backdrop of the River Thames and the Houses of Parliament, making it a compelling stop for those interested in British history and art.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
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- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
