Royal Marines Memorial on The Mall, London
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.
The Royal Marines Memorial, a distinguished bronze sculpture by Adrian Jones, stands proudly on The Mall in London. Erected in 1903, it commemorates Royal Marines who died in the Boxer Rebellion in China and the Second Boer War in Africa. Featuring two dynamic figures on a Portland stone plinth with detailed bronze reliefs and inscriptions, the memorial honors the courage and sacrifice of these servicemen. It was rededicated in 2000 as the national monument for the Royal Marines.
A brief summary to Royal Marines Memorial
- London, St. James's, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best views and to appreciate the detailed bronze reliefs and inscriptions.
- Combine your visit with a walk along The Mall to experience other nearby historic landmarks and royal sites.
- Attend the annual Graspan Parade if your visit coincides, to witness a ceremonial tribute to the Royal Marines.
- Look closely at the carved dolphins on the memorial’s corners, symbolizing the Royal Marines’ naval heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the District or Circle Line to St James's Park station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to the memorial. Note that walking involves crossing The Mall and some busy pedestrian areas. No charge for the tube beyond your fare.
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Bus
Bus routes 9, 11, 12, 15, and 22 stop near The Mall. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Oyster or contactless payment cards are accepted; fares typically range from £1.75 to £2.50.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations takes about 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 to £20. Drop-off is possible near Admiralty Arch, but parking is limited.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking from Trafalgar Square or Buckingham Palace takes 10-20 minutes over flat, paved routes suitable for most mobility levels. The area is pedestrian-friendly but can be busy during events.
Royal Marines Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Royal Marines Memorial
Origins and Artistic Creation
The Royal Marines Memorial was created in 1903 to honor Royal Marines who lost their lives during the Boxer Rebellion in China and the Second Boer War in South Africa. The bronze sculpture was crafted by Adrian Jones, a former military veterinary surgeon turned sculptor, renowned for his detailed and dynamic equestrian and military works. The architectural elements, including the Portland stone plinth, were designed by Sir Thomas Graham Jackson. The memorial features two bronze figures: a wounded marine defended by a comrade, whose poised rifle and bayonet suggest imminent combat. This powerful imagery captures the bravery and sacrifice of the Royal Marines.Symbolism and Design Details
The memorial’s plinth is adorned with bronze reliefs depicting key actions at Graspan during the Boer War and the defense against the Chinese attack on the Peking Legations. These reliefs, though debated in artistic quality, provide historical narrative and commemorate the specific conflicts. Carved dolphins on each corner symbolize the Royal Marines’ naval heritage. Brass plaques bear inscriptions including a Roll of Honour listing 70 men who died in these campaigns, and a dedication from the officers and men of the Royal Marines. Around the base, brass lettering reads: “This memorial was rededicated in October 2000 in honour of all Royal Marines who have served their country by land and sea and who are forever remembered by their friends.”Historical Journey and Preservation
Originally located on the south side of The Mall, the memorial was removed in 1940 during the construction of the Admiralty Citadel, a wartime bunker. It was stored safely before being relocated to its current position next to Admiralty Arch in 1948. The memorial suffered minor bomb damage during World War II but was restored by the late 1940s. In 2000, as part of the Millennium Year Initiative, it was fully restored and rededicated by the Duke of Edinburgh, the Captain General of the Royal Marines, becoming the national monument for the Royal Marines and the focal point for the annual Graspan Parade.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated on The Mall, a ceremonial route in central London, the memorial occupies a prominent and symbolic site near Admiralty Arch and Buckingham Palace. Visitors can appreciate the detailed craftsmanship of the sculpture and plaques while reflecting on the sacrifices commemorated. The open setting allows for unobstructed views and photographic opportunities, enhanced by the historic and grand surroundings of The Mall.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Royal Marines Memorial stands as a testament to the valor and enduring legacy of the Royal Marines across two significant late 19th-century conflicts. Its restoration and rededication underscore the continuing respect and remembrance afforded to these servicemen. The involvement of the Falkland Islands government in the 2000 restoration highlights the long-standing ties between the Islands and the Royal Marines. The memorial remains a place of solemn tribute and historical education within London’s rich tapestry of military monuments.Artistic Contributions of Adrian Jones and Thomas Graham Jackson
Adrian Jones, despite no formal artistic training, brought profound anatomical knowledge to his sculptures, especially of horses and military subjects. His other notable works include the massive bronze quadriga atop Wellington Arch. Sir Thomas Graham Jackson, an esteemed architect, contributed the memorial’s architectural framework, harmonizing sculpture and stonework. Their collaboration resulted in a memorial that is both artistically significant and historically poignant.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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