Newcastle and District War Memorial
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Standing at the heart of Old Eldon Square on Blackett Street, the Newcastle and District War Memorial is a striking Portland stone monument unveiled in 1923 by Field Marshal Earl Haig. Designed by architects Cackett and Burns with bronze sculptures by Charles Hartwell, this Grade I listed memorial commemorates the men of Newcastle who fell in both World Wars. The centerpiece features a majestic equestrian statue of Saint George slaying the dragon, symbolizing the courage of infantrymen and cavalrymen, while four relief panels depict Memory, Peace, Justice, and the sacrifice of war.
A brief summary to Newcastle and District War Memorial
- Blackett St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7JG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during Remembrance Sunday in November to experience the memorial's central role in Newcastle's annual commemoration ceremony, featuring military parades and services of remembrance.
- Study the four relief panels individually—each tells a distinct part of the memorial's narrative, from Memory and Peace to Justice, revealing the artistic depth of Hartwell's work.
- Approach from different angles within Old Eldon Square to appreciate how the equestrian Saint George statue dominates the composition from various perspectives.
- Combine your visit with exploration of the surrounding Georgian terraces designed by John Dobson, which provide historical context to Newcastle's nineteenth-century urban development.
- Allow time for quiet reflection at the memorial's base, where the inscriptions and sculptures invite contemplation of the sacrifice commemorated.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Walking from Newcastle Central Station
From Newcastle Central Station, walk northwest toward the city center via Neville Street and Grainger Street, approximately 10–12 minutes on foot. The memorial is located on Blackett Street at Old Eldon Square, easily accessible via the main pedestrian routes through the city center. The approach is flat and straightforward, suitable for all mobility levels.
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Metro (Tyne and Wear Metro)
Take the Metro to Monument Station, which is approximately 5–7 minutes' walk from Old Eldon Square. Exit the station and head toward the city center via Northumberland Street. The journey from Newcastle Central Station to Monument Station takes approximately 2–3 minutes. A single journey ticket costs around £1.80–£2.20 depending on zones traveled.
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Bus from Newcastle City Center
Multiple bus routes serve the city center with stops near Blackett Street and Old Eldon Square. Journey times from Newcastle Central Station area are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and route. Single bus fares range from £1.80–£2.20. Services run frequently throughout the day, with reduced frequency on Sundays.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services are readily available throughout Newcastle. Journey time from Newcastle Central Station to Old Eldon Square is approximately 5–8 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Typical taxi fares range from £8–£15. The memorial location has limited on-street parking nearby, though several paid car parks operate within a 5–10 minute walk.
Newcastle and District War Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Newcastle and District War Memorial
A Monument to Sacrifice and Remembrance
The Newcastle and District War Memorial stands as one of the city's most significant commemorative structures, occupying a prominent position at the center of Old Eldon Square. Unveiled on 4 July 1923 by Field Marshal Earl Haig, the memorial was erected by the Municipal Borough of Newcastle-upon-Tyne to honor the district's fallen from the First and Second World Wars. The monument's commanding presence on Blackett Street makes it an unmissable landmark within the city's historic Georgian architecture.Architectural Design and Artistic Vision
The memorial was designed by the architectural partnership of Cackett and Burns, with bronze sculptural elements created by the renowned sculptor Charles Hartwell. The structure comprises a large Portland stone pedestal that rises prominently above the surrounding square. The pedestal's four sides each bear distinct artistic representations, creating a multifaceted narrative of remembrance. The north face displays the inscription "Memory Lingers Here" above a bronze sculptured wreath, while the south side features a lion relief beneath the dates 1914–1918 and 1939–1945. The east face presents a bronze relief of Justice, depicting two grieving women alongside Lady Justice holding her scales, symbolizing the moral weight of sacrifice. The west face showcases a bronze relief of Peace, illustrating a woman with a child and the Angel of Peace, offering a vision of hope amid sorrow.The Iconic Saint George Sculpture
Crowning the pedestal is a large bronze equestrian statue of Saint George, the patron saint of infantrymen and cavalrymen, depicted in the act of slaying the dragon. This powerful image has become synonymous with the memorial and serves as a potent symbol of courage, valor, and the triumph of good over evil. The equestrian figure commands attention from all approaches to the square, drawing visitors' eyes upward in contemplation.Historical Significance and Restoration
As a Grade I listed structure, the memorial represents an important example of early twentieth-century commemorative art and architecture. The monument underwent significant restoration work in 1991 and again in 2007, ensuring that its artistic and structural integrity has been preserved for future generations. These interventions have maintained the clarity of the bronze sculptures and the quality of the Portland stone, allowing the memorial to continue serving as a focal point for remembrance.Setting Within Old Eldon Square
The memorial's location within Old Eldon Square is particularly meaningful. The square itself was developed between 1825 and 1840 as part of Newcastle's grand urban reconstruction, designed by John Dobson. The Georgian terraces surrounding the memorial create an elegant backdrop, with their finely cut ashlar facades and cast-iron balconies providing a dignified setting for this solemn tribute. The square's open green space allows visitors to approach the memorial from multiple directions and to pause for reflection.A Living Place of Commemoration
Beyond its role as a static monument, the memorial functions as an active site of remembrance. Each year, Newcastle's Remembrance Day ceremonies take place at Old Eldon Square, with military parades and services of remembrance drawing the community together to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial thus transcends its role as a historical artifact, remaining a vital gathering place where past and present intersect in collective memory.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Newcastle and District War Memorial
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A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Coast
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The Works
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Solemn
- Reflective
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
- Iconic Views
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
