Chindit Memorial, London
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
The Chindit Memorial in London honors the brave soldiers of the Chindits, a special forces unit that operated behind Japanese lines in Burma during World War II. Located in Victoria Embankment Gardens near the Ministry of Defence, the memorial features a tall Portland stone pillar topped with a bronze sculpture of the mythical Burmese guardian lion, the chinthe. It commemorates both the soldiers and their leader, Major General Orde Wingate, and became a Grade II listed building in 2020.
A brief summary to Chindit Memorial
- Chindit Memorial, London, SW1A 2JL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for quieter surroundings and optimal light for photography.
- Take time to read the inscriptions to appreciate the full history and valor of the Chindits.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey for a comprehensive historical day.
- Visit during Remembrance Day events in November to experience the memorial’s community significance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the District or Circle Line to Embankment Station, approximately a 10-minute walk to Victoria Embankment Gardens where the memorial is located. The station is well-serviced and accessible, with ticket prices ranging from £2.50 to £6 depending on travel zones.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including numbers 11, 24, and 148, stop near Victoria Embankment Gardens. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, with single fares around £1.75 using contactless payment.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central London, a walk of 15 to 25 minutes through the historic Whitehall area offers a pleasant route to the memorial. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
Chindit Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Chindit Memorial
A Tribute to the Chindits’ Courage and Sacrifice
The Chindit Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the extraordinary bravery and resilience of the Chindits, a British-Indian special forces unit active during World War II. Formed under Major General Orde Wingate, these troops conducted daring long-range penetration operations behind Japanese lines in the Burma Campaign of 1943 and 1944. Their name derives from the chinthe, a mythical lion guardian of Burmese temples, symbolizing protection and strength. The memorial commemorates not only the soldiers but also Wingate himself, who died in active service in Burma in 1944.Design and Symbolism of the Memorial
Designed by architect David Price and featuring a bronze chinthe sculpture by Frank Forster, the memorial is a tapering Portland stone pillar approximately four meters tall, set on three red granite steps. The chinthe atop the pillar connects the memorial visually and symbolically to Burmese culture and the theatre of war where the Chindits operated. The front bears the Chindit badge on a blue enamel background, alongside their motto, "The boldest measures are the safest." It also honors four Chindit soldiers awarded the Victoria Cross for exceptional bravery.Inscriptions and Dedications
The sides of the memorial list the various army units that formed the Chindits, reflecting the multinational composition of the force including British, Indian, Burmese, and Nepalese soldiers. The rear is dedicated to Major General Orde Wingate, featuring a blue plaque with his portrait and a quote from Winston Churchill praising him as "A man of genius who might well have become a man of destiny." The memorial also references Wingate’s influence on the formation of the Israel Defence Forces, stemming from his earlier service in Palestine.Historical Context and Legacy
The Chindits were formed to execute deep penetration raids in the dense Burmese jungle, relying on endurance, stealth, and air supply drops. Their operations were among the most grueling of the war, with high casualty rates from combat and disease. The memorial, unveiled in 1990 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, stands near the Ministry of Defence headquarters in central London, offering a place of reflection amid the city’s historic landscape.Preservation and Recognition
In August 2020, the Chindit Memorial was granted Grade II listed status, recognizing its architectural and historic significance. This designation ensures the memorial’s protection as a heritage asset, marking the 75th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day and the memorial’s 30th anniversary. The site remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these special forces and their enduring legacy.Visiting Experience and Surroundings
Set within the tranquil Victoria Embankment Gardens, the memorial provides a peaceful environment for contemplation. Its proximity to other notable landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey makes it an accessible and meaningful stop for visitors exploring London’s rich military history. The memorial’s distinctive design and cultural symbolism make it a unique and evocative landmark in the capital.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chindit Memorial
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A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
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Location Audience
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