Captain James Cook Statue
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
A life-sized bronze statue of Captain James Cook stands near Admiralty Arch on The Mall in London, commemorating the legendary explorer and navigator who circumnavigated the globe. Sculpted by Sir Thomas Brock and unveiled in 1914, the statue depicts Cook in Royal Navy captain's uniform, standing with his foot on a coil of rope beside a capstan. The Grade II listed monument honours Cook's pioneering voyages across the Pacific Ocean and his role in charting the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Newfoundland.
A brief summary to Captain James Cook
- The Mall, London, SW1A 2WH, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography, particularly when the bronze catches the sun's rays beautifully.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions including Admiralty Arch, the Queen Victoria Memorial, and Buckingham Palace for a comprehensive Westminster heritage walk.
- Read the inscription carefully to understand the historical context and the 1928 amendment that acknowledged Cook's contributions to Canadian exploration.
- The statue is best viewed from multiple angles—approach from Trafalgar Square to see it emerge near Admiralty Arch, and view it from the Mall itself for full appreciation of the stone plinth details.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Underground (Tube)
Take the District, Circle, or Bakerloo line to Embankment station. From the station, walk south through the Embankment Gardens and cross the Mall to reach the statue near Admiralty Arch. Journey time approximately 15–25 minutes depending on starting point. Service runs every 2–5 minutes during peak hours.
-
Bus
Multiple bus routes serve The Mall area, including routes 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, and 87. Alight at stops near Admiralty Arch or Trafalgar Square and walk to the statue. Journey time varies from 10–40 minutes depending on traffic and starting location. Buses run frequently throughout the day.
-
Walking
The statue is easily accessible on foot from Trafalgar Square (approximately 5–10 minutes walk) or from Buckingham Palace (approximately 10–15 minutes walk). The Mall is a wide, flat, pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare with clear sightlines. No terrain obstacles or accessibility challenges.
-
Taxi or Ride-Share
Request drop-off at Admiralty Arch or The Mall, near Trafalgar Square. Journey time from central London typically 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. Estimated cost £8–20 depending on origin. Parking is extremely limited in this area; ride-share is recommended over private vehicles.
Captain James Cook location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Captain James Cook
A Monument to Maritime Exploration
The Captain James Cook statue stands as one of London's most significant maritime memorials, positioned prominently near Admiralty Arch on the south side of The Mall. This life-sized bronze sculpture commemorates one of history's greatest navigators and explorers, whose voyages fundamentally shaped the British Empire and expanded geographical knowledge of the Pacific world. The statue occupies a prestigious location within the heart of Westminster, where it commands attention from visitors walking between Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace.Artistic Vision and Sculptural Detail
Sir Thomas Brock, the renowned sculptor who also created the Queen Victoria Memorial nearby, designed this striking bronze figure. Cook is depicted in full Royal Navy captain's uniform, wearing his distinctive tricorn hat and standing with legs astride in a confident, commanding pose. His left hand holds naval charts and maps, referencing his crucial role as a cartographer, while his right hand grips his left glove. A sword hangs from a broad belt slung diagonally across his body. The figure stands upon a stone plinth carved with maritime imagery, including a ship's prow and representations of the globe. Most notably, Cook's foot rests upon a coil of rope beside a capstan—a detail that has long amused sailors, who point out that standing on rope is considered bad luck aboard ship.Historical Commissioning and Unveiling
The impetus for this memorial came from Sir Joseph Carruthers, the recently retired Premier of New South Wales, who published a letter in The Times in November 1908 lamenting the absence of any major Cook commemoration in London. The British Empire League took up the challenge, establishing a memorial committee to raise funds. In March 1911, the Office of Works offered a site on The Mall on the condition that Thomas Brock serve as sculptor, ensuring harmony with his existing works on nearby Admiralty Arch. King George V approved Brock's model in February 1912, and the statue was formally unveiled on 7 July 1914 by Prince Arthur of Connaught, the King's uncle, acting on behalf of the British Empire League. Winston Churchill, then First Lord of the Admiralty, proposed a vote of thanks at the ceremony.Inscription and Later Amendments
The original plinth inscription celebrated Cook as "Circumnavigator of the globe, explorer of the Pacific Ocean, he laid the foundations of the British Empire in Australia and New Zealand." However, following protests from Canada regarding the omission of Cook's significant contributions to charting Canadian waters, the inscription was expanded in 1928 to include: "charted the shores of Newfoundland and traversed the ocean gates of Canada, both east and west." This amendment reflects the broader historical recognition of Cook's comprehensive mapping of North American coastlines.Legacy and Preservation
The statue remains Grade II listed and is maintained by The Royal Parks, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It stands as a tangible reminder of Cook's extraordinary achievements—his circumnavigation of the globe, his exploration of the Pacific, and his role in charting territories that would become crucial to British imperial expansion. The monument attracts visitors year-round who pause to appreciate both the artistic craftsmanship and the historical significance embodied in this bronze figure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Captain James Cook
0.0 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Royal Marines Memorial
0.0 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Old Admiralty Building
0.1 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Admiralty Arch
0.1 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
16-18 Whitehall
0.1 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.2 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Nelson's Column
0.2 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.2 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
Guards Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.3 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.3 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
Dover House
0.3 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Unmissable attractions to see
Canada House
0.2 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Duke of York Column
0.2 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
Carlton House Terrace
0.2 km
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Trafalgar Square
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
The Household Cavalry Museum
0.2 km
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
The Fourth Plinth
0.2 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.2 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
Horse Guards Parade
0.2 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.2 km
Honoring Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, the Defender of London during WWII’s Battle of Britain, through a striking bronze statue in central London.
The Ghost Bus Tours
0.2 km
Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
London by Night Tours
0.2 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
Grand Building
0.2 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
Waterloo Pl
0.2 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.3 km
Experience London's historic His Majesty's Theatre, home to iconic musicals and timeless theatrical heritage in the vibrant Haymarket district.
Theatre Royal Haymarket
0.3 km
Historic West End theatre with rich traditions, elegant design, and acclaimed productions in London’s vibrant Haymarket district.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.2 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Wild Honey St James
0.2 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
The Garden
0.4 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.4 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
J Sheekey
0.5 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Bustronome London
0.6 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Golden Lion
0.6 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Evelyn's Table
0.6 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.6 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Kricket Soho
0.6 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Rules
0.7 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Meet Fresh
0.7 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Clos Maggiore
0.7 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Lillywhites
0.5 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.5 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Unique Britain
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Jermyn St
0.6 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.6 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Floris London
0.6 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.6 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Prestat Chocolates
0.6 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.6 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.2 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
0.2 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.4 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.4 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.5 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.5 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.5 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.6 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.6 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.6 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Ku Bar
0.6 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.1 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Heaven
0.4 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Luxe Club
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
0.5 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.5 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Scotch of St James
0.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.6 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.7 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Cuckoo Club
0.7 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Ivy Club
0.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Sophisticats Soho
0.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.8 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
0.8 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
