Guards Crimean War Memorial, London
A solemn tribute in central London honoring the valor of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War through evocative bronze and granite sculpture.
The Guards Crimean War Memorial in London’s St James's district commemorates the valor and sacrifice of the Brigade of Guards during the Crimean War (1853–1856). Erected in 1861 and located on Waterloo Place, it features bronze statues of three Guardsmen and a female allegorical figure symbolizing Honour and Victory. Cast from captured Russian cannons, the memorial is a poignant tribute to ordinary soldiers and a significant historic landmark in central London.
A brief summary to Guards Crimean War Memorial
- Waterloo Pl, London, GB
- Visit website
- 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 intricate bronze details and inscriptions.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like Trafalgar Square and St James's Park for a rich historical experience.
- Take time to observe the allegorical figure of Honour/Victory atop the memorial, symbolizing triumph and remembrance.
- Notice the use of bronze cast from captured Russian cannons, a unique feature linking the monument to the war itself.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Piccadilly Circus station, approximately a 5–10 minute walk to Waterloo Place where the memorial is located. The station is served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines. No additional fare is required beyond standard London Underground pricing.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Waterloo Place, including routes 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Oyster and contactless payments are accepted on buses.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London areas such as Trafalgar Square or Covent Garden to Waterloo Place takes approximately 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £7 to £15.
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Walking
For those nearby, walking to Waterloo Place is an excellent option. From Trafalgar Square, it is about a 10-minute walk along well-paved urban streets with street lighting and pedestrian crossings, suitable for most mobility levels.
Guards Crimean War 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 Guards Crimean War Memorial
A Historic Tribute to the Crimean War
The Guards Crimean War Memorial stands prominently on Waterloo Place, at the junction of Regent Street and Pall Mall in London’s St James's district. Unveiled in 1861, it commemorates the Allied victory and the sacrifices made by the Brigade of Guards during the Crimean War of 1853 to 1856. This memorial is notable for being the first war monument to focus on the ordinary soldier rather than commanders or generals, marking a shift in how military valor was publicly honored.Artistry and Symbolism in Bronze and Granite
The memorial’s sculptor, John Bell (1811–1895), crafted the central group of three Guardsmen representing the Coldstream, Grenadier, and Fusilier regiments. These figures are cast in bronze made from Russian cannons captured at the Siege of Sebastopol, embedding the very materials of war into the monument. Above the soldiers, a taller granite pedestal supports a female allegorical figure with outstretched arms, originally known as Honour and later referred to as Victory. She holds a pair of laurel wreaths, symbolizing triumph and remembrance.Inscriptions and Historical Context
The granite base bears inscriptions commemorating the 2,152 officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates of the Brigade of Guards who died during the war. On the sides of the base, circular shields adorned with foliage list key battles such as Alma, Inkerman, and Sebastopol. The memorial was originally placed closer to Pall Mall but was moved 30 feet north in 1914 to make room for statues of Florence Nightingale and Sidney Herbert, figures closely associated with the Crimean War.Controversy and Legacy
At its unveiling, the memorial’s somber and mournful depiction of the soldiers stirred controversy, contrasting with the heroic poses typical of war memorials of that era. Some critics described it as an eyesore, while others appreciated its focus on the human cost of war. Today, it stands as a Grade II listed structure and remains a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the British Guardsmen.Setting and Surroundings
Situated in a busy central London location near Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square, the memorial offers a reflective space amid the city’s bustle. Visitors can appreciate the detailed craftsmanship of the bronze statues and the granite pedestal, as well as the nearby statues of Nightingale and Herbert, which complement the memorial’s historical narrative.A Living Memorial in London’s Urban Fabric
The Guards Crimean War Memorial continues to serve as a poignant symbol of military sacrifice and national memory. Its presence on Waterloo Place integrates history, art, and public remembrance, inviting visitors to contemplate the cost of war and the valor of those who served. The memorial’s enduring significance is reflected in its careful preservation and its role as a focal point in London’s rich tapestry of historic landmarks.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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- Wheelchair Access
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- Vegan Friendly
