The Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens, London
A stunning Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and regal grandeur.
The Albert Memorial is a grand Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, London, dedicated to Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. Unveiled in 1872 and designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, it features a gilded statue of Albert beneath an ornate canopy, surrounded by intricate allegorical sculptures representing arts, sciences, and continents. Located opposite the Royal Albert Hall, it stands as a poignant symbol of Victorian grandeur and royal remembrance.
A brief summary to The Albert Memorial
- Kensington Gardens, London, W2 2UH, GB
- +442072982000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details and gilded statue in natural light.
- Combine your visit with nearby Kensington Palace and the Serpentine Galleries for a full cultural day.
- Bring a camera to capture the monument’s ornate Gothic Revival architecture and surrounding gardens.
- Explore the memorial’s allegorical sculptures to understand Victorian values and Prince Albert’s interests.
- Check for guided tours or talks offered by The Royal Parks for deeper historical insights.
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 Circle or District Line to South Kensington station, then enjoy a 15-20 minute walk through the park to the Albert Memorial. The station is wheelchair accessible, and the walk is mostly flat with paved paths.
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Bus
Buses 9, 52, and 70 serve stops near Kensington Gardens. From the nearest stop, it’s a 10-15 minute walk along accessible paths to the memorial. Bus fares are approximately £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi from central London to the Albert Memorial typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic, costing around £10-£15. Drop-off is available near the park entrance on Albert Memorial Road.
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Walking
If staying nearby, a 20-30 minute walk from Kensington Palace or the Royal Albert Hall offers a scenic route through Kensington Gardens with mostly flat terrain and well-maintained paths.
The Albert Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Albert Memorial
A Monument to Royal Devotion and Victorian Grandeur
The Albert Memorial, located in Kensington Gardens, London, is a magnificent tribute to Prince Albert, the beloved husband of Queen Victoria. Commissioned by the Queen following Albert's death in 1861, the memorial was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the Gothic Revival style and unveiled in 1872. It stands as one of the most ornate and elaborate monuments in London, embodying the Victorian era's artistic sensibilities and deep royal mourning.Architectural Splendor and Symbolic Details
At the heart of the memorial is a 14-foot gilded bronze statue of Prince Albert seated beneath an intricately carved canopy topped by a spire soaring to 176 feet. Albert holds the catalogue of the Great Exhibition of 1851, an event he inspired and helped organize, symbolizing his contributions to arts, science, and industry. Surrounding the statue are nearly 200 allegorical sculptures representing continents, industries, and the arts, including figures for chemistry, geometry, astronomy, and poetry, which reflect the broad interests and achievements of Prince Albert.Context Within Kensington Gardens and Cultural Significance
Situated at the northern end of the area known as Albertopolis, the memorial faces the Royal Albert Hall, a concert venue also dedicated to Albert's memory. This alignment creates a cultural axis celebrating Victorian progress and philanthropy. Kensington Gardens itself is a historic royal park with a rich heritage, hosting other notable landmarks such as the Peter Pan statue, Italian Gardens, and Kensington Palace. The memorial's grandeur and detailed craftsmanship make it a focal point for visitors exploring the park's blend of natural beauty and historical significance.The Memorial’s Role in Victorian Society and Legacy
The Albert Memorial was funded through a combination of public subscriptions and parliamentary grants, costing £120,000 at the time. It was intended not only as a personal tribute but also as a public symbol of Victorian values, including Christian principles, education, and the arts. The memorial encapsulates the era’s worldview, celebrating the British Empire’s global reach and cultural achievements. Its elaborate design and prominent location continue to inspire reflection on Prince Albert’s legacy and Victorian history.Visitor Experience and Surrounding Attractions
Visitors to the Albert Memorial can appreciate its intricate stonework, mosaics, and sculptures up close. The site is accessible within the expansive Kensington Gardens, which offers peaceful walking paths, gardens, and other monuments. Nearby attractions include the Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Palace, and the Serpentine Galleries, making the area a rich cultural and recreational destination. The park’s accessibility features and amenities ensure a welcoming experience for diverse visitors.Preservation and Cultural Events
Maintained by The Royal Parks, the Albert Memorial remains a protected heritage site. The memorial and its surroundings host regular events, including guided tours and talks that illuminate its history and artistic details. Its enduring presence in Kensington Gardens highlights the continuing importance of Victorian heritage in London’s urban landscape, blending history, art, and nature in a unique setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Speke Monument
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A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Empire House
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Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Norwegian War Memorial
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37 Thurloe St
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Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Kensington War Memorial
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A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Edward Jenner Memorial
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Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Béla Bartók Memorial
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Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
The Old Police House
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Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
142 Cromwell Rd
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Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Sussex Gardens
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A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Paddington Bear Statue
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Visit the charming Paddington Bear Statue in London, a delightful tribute to the beloved character that captures the hearts of tourists and locals alike.
Speakers' Corner
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Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Space Apart Hotel
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Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
Animals In War Memorial
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A poignant tribute in central London to the animals that served and died in wars alongside British and Allied forces, from horses and mules to dogs and pigeons.
2 Eastbourne Terrace
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Explore the architectural beauty of 2 Eastbourne Terrace, a stunning landmark in London showcasing the city's rich history and modern charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Royal Albert Hall
0.2 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
Imperial Cinema
0.3 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Serpentine Gallery
0.3 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
Queen's Tower
0.4 km
Discover the Queen's Tower, a stunning historical landmark in South Kensington, showcasing Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.5 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical summerhouse in Kensington Gardens, celebrating Queen Caroline’s artistic and landscape legacy.
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
A serene, interactive water memorial in Hyde Park honoring Princess Diana’s life and legacy through innovative design and tranquil reflection.
Kensington Gardens
0.5 km
Explore Kensington Gardens, a royal London oasis blending historic grandeur, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly adventures across 265 acres of green space.
Round Pond
0.6 km
Historic ornamental lake in Kensington Gardens, home to model yachts and diverse wildlife, set against the iconic backdrop of Kensington Palace.
Science Museum
0.6 km
Explore London’s iconic Science Museum with interactive exhibits, live demos, and iconic artifacts celebrating scientific achievement.
Natural History Museum
0.6 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history through iconic fossils, dazzling exhibits, and tranquil gardens at London’s Natural History Museum.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.7 km
A majestic marble statue of Queen Victoria by her daughter, marking the birthplace and childhood home of one of Britain’s most iconic monarchs.
Victoria and Albert Museum
0.7 km
Explore centuries of art, design, and fashion at London’s iconic Victoria and Albert Museum, where creativity meets history in a stunning Victorian setting.
Kensington Palace
0.7 km
Discover centuries of royal history and serene gardens at Kensington Palace, a majestic London landmark and former home to British monarchs.
The Hole in the Wall
0.8 km
A timeless, authentic London pub near Waterloo station, famed for its hearty ales, no-frills charm, and welcoming local atmosphere.
Kensington Palace Green
0.8 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Essential places to dine
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.8 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
0.8 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Grato
0.8 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.0 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.0 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Town House Kensington
1.1 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.2 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The Shed
1.3 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
The Grenadier
1.6 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Il Portico
1.6 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Rabbit
1.7 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.8 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Science Museum Shop
0.6 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
0.7 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Kensington Palace Shop
0.8 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
V&A Shop
0.8 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
Urban Outfitters
0.8 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.9 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Jigsaw
0.9 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Good
1.0 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
The London Shop
1.3 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.4 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Notting hill store
1.5 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
the Design Museum Shop
1.6 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
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Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
The gift store
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Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
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Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 190
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Stables Bar
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Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
AMARO BAR - London
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Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
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Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
The Builders Arms
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A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
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A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
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A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
K Bar
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Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.1 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
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A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.3 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.3 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Dickens Tavern
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Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.5 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
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Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Metric
0.2 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Dolce Night Club , London
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Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
1.1 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.4 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
The Globe
2.2 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Ricco London
2.3 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Duke of Wellington
2.4 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.5 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
2.6 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Tabu London
2.6 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Subteranian
2.8 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
The Cuckoo Club
2.9 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Scotch of St James
2.9 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Gothic Revival
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
