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Statue of Sir Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, London

Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing Britain’s wartime resilience and leadership.

4.5

The Statue of Sir Winston Churchill, located in Parliament Square, London, is a prominent 12-foot bronze sculpture commemorating the iconic British Prime Minister. Sculpted by Ivor Roberts-Jones and unveiled in 1973 by Churchill’s widow, the statue captures Churchill in his military greatcoat with a walking stick, symbolizing his wartime leadership during World War II. Positioned facing the Palace of Westminster, it is a key historical monument and one of twelve statues in the square.

A brief summary to Sir Winston Churchill statue

  • Parliament Sq, London, SW1P 3JX, GB
  • +442079834000
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late evening for quieter moments to appreciate the statue and take unobstructed photos.
  • Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben for a full historical experience.
  • Look for the inscription 'Churchill' on the plinth to identify the statue easily among Parliament Square’s many monuments.
  • Be aware that the statue is often a gathering point for political demonstrations, which can add a dynamic atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Westminster Station, served by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. The station is approximately a 5-minute walk from Parliament Square. Trains run frequently, and a single journey costs around £2.50–£6.00 depending on time and ticket type.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes stop near Parliament Square, including routes 11, 24, 148, and 211. Buses run every 5–15 minutes during the day. A contactless payment or Oyster card fare costs £1.75 per ride.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby in Westminster or Central London, walking to Parliament Square is an easy option. Expect a 10–20 minute walk over mostly flat, paved terrain. The area is pedestrian-friendly and accessible.

Sir Winston Churchill statue location weather suitability

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Discover more about Sir Winston Churchill statue

A Monument to a Wartime Leader

The Statue of Sir Winston Churchill stands proudly in Parliament Square, London, as a bronze tribute to one of Britain’s most renowned Prime Ministers. Created by sculptor Ivor Roberts-Jones, the statue was unveiled on 1 November 1973 by Clementine, Lady Spencer-Churchill, Winston Churchill’s widow. The statue is approximately 12 feet (3.7 meters) tall, mounted on an 8-foot (2.4 meters) plinth inscribed simply with "Churchill." It depicts Churchill in his iconic military greatcoat, with his hand resting on a walking stick, a pose inspired by a famous photograph taken after the 1941 bombing of the House of Commons chamber during World War II.

Historical Significance and Location

The statue’s location is deeply symbolic. Churchill himself, when shown redevelopment plans for Parliament Square in the 1950s, circled the spot where the statue now stands and declared, "That is where my statue will go." Positioned directly opposite the Palace of Westminster, the statue faces the heart of British political power, underscoring Churchill’s enduring legacy as a wartime leader and parliamentarian. This placement situates the statue among twelve other statues of notable statesmen and historical figures, making Parliament Square a focal point of British history and memory.

Artistic and Cultural Context

Ivor Roberts-Jones’s sculpture is noted for its lifelike and imposing presence. The artist’s friend, Kyffin Williams, served as a model for Churchill’s figure, lending the statue a dynamic and human quality. The statue has become one of the most photographed in Parliament Square, often serving as a backdrop for political demonstrations and public gatherings. Over the years, it has witnessed moments of both reverence and controversy, reflecting changing perspectives on Churchill’s complex legacy.

Creation and Funding

The statue was funded through public appeal, raising around £32,000 from 4,500 donors. The casting was done by the Meridian Foundry in Peckham Rye, London. The unveiling ceremony was attended by Queen Elizabeth II, who gave a speech, as well as the serving Prime Minister and four former Prime Ministers, highlighting the broad respect Churchill commanded across political lines.

Legacy and Replicas

This statue is the official and most famous representation of Churchill in London. It was featured in the 2012 London Olympic Games opening ceremony, symbolizing Churchill’s lasting place in British cultural identity. Replicas of this statue exist in cities such as Oslo, Canberra, Halifax, Toronto, and Prague, further cementing Churchill’s international stature as a leader.

Enduring Symbol of Leadership

The statue not only commemorates Churchill’s wartime leadership but also serves as a symbol of resilience and determination. His stance and gaze toward Parliament evoke his role in guiding Britain through its darkest hours. The statue remains a significant cultural landmark, inviting reflection on Churchill’s impact on British history and the complexities of his legacy.

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