Queen Anne Statue at St. Paul's Churchyard, London
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
The Queen Anne Statue in St. Paul's Churchyard, London, is a historic landmark commemorating the completion of St. Paul's Cathedral after the Great Fire of London. Originally erected in 1712 by sculptor Francis Bird, the current statue is a faithful 1886 replica replacing the deteriorated original. The statue features Queen Anne adorned with regal symbols and four allegorical female figures representing Britannia, France, America, and Ireland at its base.
A brief summary to Queen Anne Statue
- St. Paul's Churchyard, London, EC4M 8AY, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best views and photo opportunities of the statue and St. Paul's Cathedral.
- Take time to observe the four allegorical figures at the base, each representing nations linked to Queen Anne’s reign.
- Combine your visit with a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral to deepen your understanding of the historical context.
- Look closely at the statue’s details such as the crown, sceptre, and orb to appreciate the craftsmanship.
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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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to St. Paul's Station on the Central Line. From there, it is a 5 to 7-minute walk across flat terrain to St. Paul's Churchyard. Tube tickets cost approximately £2.50–£6.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near St. Paul's Cathedral, including routes 4, 11, 15, and 25. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Bus fares are around £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8 to £15. Note that traffic congestion charges may apply.
Queen Anne Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Queen Anne Statue
Historical Significance of the Statue
The Queen Anne Statue stands prominently in St. Paul's Churchyard, marking a significant moment in British history. The original statue was commissioned in 1712 by Francis Bird, a renowned sculptor of the era, to celebrate the completion of St. Paul's Cathedral following the devastation of the Great Fire of London in 1666. Queen Anne's reign was pivotal, overseeing the unification of England and Scotland and laying foundations for the modern British monarchy that balanced power with Parliament rather than divine right.Design and Symbolism
The statue depicts Queen Anne wearing a golden crown, holding a sceptre in her right hand and an orb in her left, symbolizing her sovereign authority. Around the base are four allegorical female figures representing the nations over which she ruled or claimed influence: Britannia (England), France, America, and Ireland. These figures reflect the geopolitical landscape of her reign and Britain's emerging imperial reach. The statue’s regal posture and detailed craftsmanship embody the dignity and authority of the queen.The 1886 Replica and Its Backstory
By the late 19th century, the original statue had suffered significant deterioration and vandalism, including damage inflicted in 1769 by a Lascar who removed the globe and broke the sceptre. To preserve this important monument, a replica was commissioned and erected in 1886 at the same location. The sculptor Belt began the work but was imprisoned for fraud, leading to Malempre completing the statue. The original statue was relocated to the grounds of Holmhurst St Mary near Hastings, where it remains today.Queen Anne’s Legacy and Cultural Impact
Queen Anne’s reign marked the creation of the United Kingdom as it is known today and the transition to a constitutional monarchy. Despite her significant contributions, historical perspectives on her have been mixed. The statue has witnessed key events, including Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897, where Victoria famously refused to allow the statue’s removal, fearing it might set a precedent for her own statue’s fate.Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated directly outside the west front of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the statue is a focal point in the churchyard, surrounded by the cathedral’s majestic architecture and bustling London life. Visitors can appreciate the statue’s intricate details and the symbolic figures at its base while absorbing the historic atmosphere of this iconic London location. The statue’s presence connects visitors to the story of London’s resilience and royal history.Conservation and Preservation
The statue is Grade II listed, recognizing its historical and architectural importance. Conservation efforts have ensured the replica remains in good condition, preserving the legacy of Queen Anne and the artistry of Francis Bird. The site is a protected landmark, respected as a cultural heritage asset within the City of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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Location Audience
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