Queen Victoria Statue at Leith Walk, Edinburgh
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
This bronze statue of Queen Victoria, erected in 1907 at the foot of Leith Walk in Edinburgh, commemorates the men of Leith who fought in the Boer War. Standing about 10 feet tall on a sandstone pedestal, the statue is a significant historical landmark symbolizing local pride and remembrance. It has been relocated twice to accommodate urban development and remains a prominent feature in Leith’s cultural landscape.
A brief summary to Queen Victoria Statue
- 1 Duke St, Edinburgh, Leith, EH6 6AE, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 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 of the bronze statue and its sandstone pedestal.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Leith Walk to explore the vibrant local shops, cafes, and cultural spots nearby.
- Look for the plaques on the base of the statue to learn about the men of Leith who fought in the Boer War.
- Notice the nearby modern whale’s tusk sculpture, which contrasts with the historic statue and reflects Leith’s evolving urban character.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 22 or 35 from central Edinburgh, which run frequently and take approximately 20-30 minutes to reach the Leith Walk area near Duke Street. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00. Note that buses operate regularly throughout the day but may have reduced service late at night.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Tram to the York Place stop, then walk about 25 minutes along Leith Walk to reach the statue. The tram journey from the city center takes about 10 minutes, with tickets priced around £2.00. The walk is mostly flat and accessible.
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Taxi
A taxi from Edinburgh city center to the Queen Victoria Statue at Leith Walk takes roughly 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between £8-£12. Taxis provide door-to-door convenience but can be affected by peak-hour congestion.
Queen Victoria Statue 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 Queen Victoria Statue
A Tribute to Local Valor and Royal Legacy
The Queen Victoria Statue at Leith Walk was erected in 1907 as a tribute to the men of Leith who served in the Boer War, a conflict that marked the turn of the 20th century. This 10-foot-high bronze statue captures Queen Victoria in her later years, wearing a crown and holding a sceptre, embodying her status as a powerful monarch and symbol of the British Empire. The inauguration drew a crowd of around 20,000, reflecting the statue’s importance to the local community and its role in commemorating sacrifice and service.Artistic Craftsmanship and Historical Context
The statue was created by John Stevenson Rhind, a noted Scottish sculptor of the period, and rests on a sandstone pedestal added in 1986. The bronze figure’s detailed craftsmanship highlights the regal dignity of Queen Victoria, while the pedestal features plaques that provide historical context and honor the memory of the Boer War soldiers from Leith. The statue’s artistic and historical significance links it to Edinburgh’s broader heritage of commemorative public art.Urban Evolution and Statue Relocations
Over the years, the statue has been moved twice to accommodate changes in the urban environment. Originally positioned further out on the main road, it was relocated in 1968 and again in 2002, when it was shifted a few yards east to make space for a striking 60-foot blue steel sculpture of a whale’s tusk. This modern sculpture commemorates the refurbishment of Leith Kirkgate shopping centre, one of Scotland’s earliest shopping centres from the 1950s. These relocations reflect the evolving character of Leith as a vibrant district blending history with contemporary urban development.Significance Among Edinburgh’s Female Statues
Queen Victoria’s statue at Leith Walk is one of only a few statues of named women in Edinburgh, a city where monuments predominantly honor male figures. It represents not only a royal figure but also a rare public recognition of female historical presence in the city. The statue stands as a reminder of Victoria’s long reign and influence, as well as the local community’s respect for its history and heroes.Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated at 1 Duke Street in Leith, the statue commands a prominent position at the foot of Leith Walk, a bustling thoroughfare rich in cultural and commercial activity. Visitors can appreciate the statue’s detailed bronze work and sandstone base while absorbing the lively atmosphere of Leith, known for its maritime heritage and vibrant arts scene. The surrounding area offers a mix of historic and modern elements, making the statue a meaningful stop for those exploring Edinburgh’s diverse neighborhoods.Preservation and Cultural Value
The Queen Victoria Statue is a protected historical landmark, recognized for its cultural and commemorative value. Its preservation ensures that future generations can connect with the stories of Leith’s past, the legacy of Queen Victoria, and the artistic heritage of early 20th-century Scotland. The statue continues to serve as a focal point for remembrance and local identity in Edinburgh’s evolving urban landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Statue
0.0 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
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Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Robert Burns Statue
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A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
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A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
Queen Mary's Bath House
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Burns Monument
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Dugald Stewart Monument
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A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Forth Lock
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Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
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Martyrs of Reform Monument
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Robert Fergusson Statue
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The Centre of Edinburgh
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Earl of Hopetoun Statue
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A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
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Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Edinburgh World Heritage
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Explore Edinburgh's architectural wonders and rich history at the Edinburgh World Heritage, a hub for conservation and education.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trinity House Maritime Museum
0.2 km
Explore Leith’s seafaring legacy in an elegant Georgian townhouse, home to a remarkable collection of maritime treasures and stories.
Leith Links
0.5 km
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Leith
0.6 km
Historic Edinburgh port transformed into a vibrant waterfront district famed for Michelin-starred dining, lively pubs, and cultural charm.
The King's Wark
0.6 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
Shore
0.6 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Custom House Leith
0.7 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
0 Water of Leith Walkway
0.7 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
Leith Citadel
0.7 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
The Leith Mural
0.7 km
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
Teuchters Landing
0.8 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
Leith Walk
1.0 km
Leith Walk is Edinburgh’s vibrant, historic street linking city centre buzz with the lively maritime charm of Leith’s waterfront.
Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage
1.1 km
Discover the heroic history of Scottish firefighting through vintage engines, interactive exhibits, and authentic stories in Edinburgh’s city-centre museum.
Ocean Terminal
1.2 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Port of Leith Distillery (entrance)
1.3 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Essential places to dine
Tapa
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the heart of Leith at Tapa, Edinburgh’s celebrated tapas bar and restaurant.
Heron
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
Leith's historic gastropub where Scottish seasons meet craft drinks, roaring fires, and port-side charm in a dog-friendly haven of flavor and vibe.
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
0.6 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Domenico's
0.6 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
The Kitchin
0.7 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.8 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Fishers
0.8 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
The Walnut
1.1 km
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
The Gardener's Cottage
1.6 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
1.6 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
1.8 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
Taisteal
1.8 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Fhior
1.8 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Logan Malloch Ltd
0.1 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Destined for Home
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
0.5 km
Discover sustainable tartan magic in Leith: touch lambswool blankets, customize with embroidery, and carry home Scotland's cozy soul from this Edinburgh gem.
ScotClans
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
Georgian Antiques
0.6 km
Explore 50,000 sq ft of Scotland's finest antiques in Leith's historic heart – from Regency cabinets to gilded mirrors in one vast warehouse.
Flux
0.6 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
Wee Leith Shop
0.8 km
Quirky novelties and charming gifts await in this cozy Leith Walk gem, capturing the neighborhood's independent spirit with playful treasures for every home.
The Leith collective
1.1 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
1.1 km
Dive into decades of style at Retro Clothing Outfit in Leith's Ocean Terminal—vintage gems await in Edinburgh's creative coastal enclave.
Build-A-Bear
1.2 km
Craft your own cuddly companion in Leith's lively workshop, where stuffing hearts and dreams creates lifelong memories for kids and families alike.
Planet.A Boutique
1.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
Britannia Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover exclusive royal souvenirs and nautical treasures at the Britannia Gift Shop, where the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II's yacht comes alive in every carefully curated item.
The Cats Miaou
1.4 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
1.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
The Dragonfly
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smoke & Mirrors
0.1 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
The Lioness of Leith
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Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
Leith Dockers Club
0.1 km
Leith's 1946 social heartbeat: massive bar, function suites, beer garden, and community spirit for gatherings big and small.
Three Marys
0.4 km
Leith's stylish cocktail gem with smoked margaritas, eclectic decor, and shareable plates in a historic portside nook—perfect for inventive sips and cozy evenings.
Malt & Hops
0.6 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
The Barologist
0.6 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
The Vine Bar
0.9 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Street
1.8 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
2.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Nightcap
2.1 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Voodoo Rooms
2.2 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Cocktail Geeks
2.3 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Cask
2.3 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The World's End
2.4 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
Bramble Bar
2.4 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
