National Covid Memorial Wall, London
A powerful 500-metre-long mural of over 240,000 red hearts commemorating lives lost to COVID-19, facing the UK Parliament on London’s South Bank.
The National Covid Memorial Wall in London is a poignant public tribute stretching over 500 metres along the South Bank of the River Thames. Comprising more than 240,000 hand-painted red hearts, each heart represents a life lost to COVID-19 in the UK. The wall faces the Houses of Parliament and serves as a powerful reminder of the pandemic's profound human cost, maintained by dedicated volunteers known as The Friends of the Wall.
A brief summary to Memorial wall
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during quieter weekday mornings for a more reflective experience with fewer crowds.
- Take time to read the personal messages within many hearts, which offer intimate glimpses into individual stories.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the South Bank to see other landmarks like the London Eye and Westminster Bridge.
- Volunteers maintain the wall weekly; consider supporting or learning about The Friends of the Wall group.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk to the wall along the South Bank. Waterloo is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines. Tickets cost £2.40–£6.00 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near St Thomas’ Hospital and the South Bank, including routes 77, 211, and 381. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations, with fares around £1.75 per journey using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Walking
If you are near Westminster or the London Eye, a scenic 10 to 20-minute walk along the Thames Path will bring you to the wall. The path is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Taxi or Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from central London locations typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8 to £15. Note that the area is within the Congestion Charge zone, which may add to the fare during charging hours.
Memorial wall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Memorial wall
A Living Tribute to Lives Lost
The National Covid Memorial Wall is a deeply moving public memorial located on the Albert Embankment beside the River Thames in London. Stretching for more than 500 metres opposite the Palace of Westminster, this wall is covered with over 240,000 red and pink hearts, each painstakingly hand-painted by volunteers. Every heart symbolizes an individual who died in the United Kingdom with COVID-19 recorded on their death certificate. The sheer scale of the wall, extending from Westminster Bridge to Lambeth Bridge, makes it one of the most extensive visual commemorations of the pandemic anywhere in the world.Origins and Volunteer Dedication
The memorial was conceived and created in March 2021 by the campaign group Led By Donkeys in collaboration with Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice. Over a thousand volunteers painted approximately 150,000 hearts in just ten days, with many more added in subsequent months. The wall was never officially authorized at the start, making it a grassroots act of remembrance. Since then, a dedicated group called The Friends of the Wall has taken responsibility for its upkeep, repainting faded hearts with durable masonry paint, adding new dedications, and removing graffiti. Their weekly maintenance sessions ensure the memorial remains a vivid and respectful space.Location and Symbolism
Situated on the south bank of the Thames, the wall faces the terraces of the Houses of Parliament, creating a powerful dialogue between public grief and political responsibility. The memorial’s proximity to St Thomas’ Hospital, one of London’s largest healthcare institutions, adds further resonance, honoring the sacrifices of health and care workers alongside those lost. The wall also encompasses an older plaque commemorating victims of the 1994-96 BSE outbreak, linking past public health crises with the present.Community and Commemoration
The wall has become a focal point for bereaved families, many of whom visit to leave personal messages within the hearts. It offers a place for collective mourning and reflection, especially for those who were unable to say goodbye to loved ones during lockdowns. The Friends of the Wall also organize remembrance events, including annual ceremonies and seasonal vigils, fostering a sense of solidarity and ongoing remembrance. For those unable to visit, dedications can be requested remotely and added by volunteers.Recognition and Future Preservation
Initially created without official sanction, the memorial has since gained recognition and support from local authorities and the UK government. In November 2025, it was announced that the National Covid Memorial Wall would be made a permanent national memorial. Discussions continue between stakeholders to preserve this unique and heartfelt tribute, ensuring that the memory of those lost and the lessons of the pandemic endure.An Enduring Symbol of Loss and Hope
The National Covid Memorial Wall stands not only as a record of loss but also as a symbol of resilience and community. The vibrant red hearts catch the eye from across the river, a visual plea for remembrance and compassion. The wall invites visitors into a quiet space of contemplation amidst the bustling city, reminding all who see it of the profound human impact of the pandemic and the importance of honoring those who passed.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South Bank Lion
0.1 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
County Hall
0.2 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Westminster Hall
0.4 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.4 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Chindit Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Statue of George V
0.5 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
King Charles Street
0.5 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
The Cenotaph
0.5 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
King Charles Street Arch
0.5 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.5 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
0.5 km
Visit the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament Square, a symbol of peace and non-violence nestled among London's historic landmarks.
Victoria Tower Gardens South
0.5 km
A peaceful riverside park in Westminster featuring iconic memorials and stunning views of the Palace of Westminster and the Thames.
Westminster Abbey
0.5 km
Discover the timeless beauty and rich history of Westminster Abbey, a must-visit landmark in London for every traveler seeking to explore British heritage.
Lambeth Palace
0.5 km
Eight centuries of ecclesiastical power where the Church and Crown converge on the Thames
The Women of World War II
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Unmissable attractions to see
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
0.1 km
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Westminster Bridge
0.1 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning views from Westminster Bridge, an iconic London landmark linking culture and architecture.
Shrek's Adventure London
0.2 km
Step into a magical world of fairy tales and fun with Shrek and friends on London’s South Bank, perfect for families and kids aged 6 to 12.
Florence Nightingale Museum
0.2 km
Explore the inspiring legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, at this engaging museum in the heart of London’s South Bank.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
The London Dungeon
0.2 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
South of the River
0.3 km
A prestigious, fully fitted office building with prime views opposite the Houses of Parliament in London’s thriving South Bank business district.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.3 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
0.3 km
A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
0.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proud on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.3 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
Westminster Pier
0.3 km
A vibrant river gateway beside iconic London landmarks, Westminster Pier invites you to explore the Thames and historic city sights from the water.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.3 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
lastminute.com London Eye
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the towering lastminute.com London Eye on the South Bank.
Essential places to dine
OKAN South Bank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Archduke
0.6 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.6 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
0.6 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.6 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.7 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Garden
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Wahaca Southbank
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.8 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Sapori
0.8 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.8 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Bustronome London
0.8 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Browns of London
0.0 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.3 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.4 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.4 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.5 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
The Giftree London
0.5 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.6 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.6 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Gifts of London
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
0.9 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Sugar And Style
1.1 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
1.1 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.2 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.2 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
1.3 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Primo Bar, London
0.2 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Le Champagne Bar
0.3 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.3 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.3 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.4 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.4 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.6 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.7 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Westminster Arms
0.7 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Spy Bar
0.7 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Two Chairmen
0.8 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Old Shades
0.8 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Blue Boar Pub
0.8 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
0.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Heaven
0.9 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
1.0 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Proud Late
1.1 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.3 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Tiger Tiger London
1.3 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
1.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
1.4 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.4 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Café de Paris
1.4 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Scotch of St James
1.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Ministry of Sound
1.4 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Ivy Club
1.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Reflective
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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
