William Coulson Monument, Newcastle upon Tyne
A moving tribute in Newcastle honoring Colonel William Coulson’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare legacy.
The William Coulson Monument in Newcastle upon Tyne honors Colonel William Lisle Blenkinsopp Coulson (1841–1911), a pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate. Featuring a bronze bust by Arnold Rechberg atop a pink granite plinth with drinking troughs for horses, cattle, and dogs, the statue stands on Horatio Street overlooking the River Tyne. Originally unveiled in 1914 near the Haymarket, it was relocated due to traffic and now serves as a lasting tribute to Coulson’s compassionate legacy.
A brief summary to William Coulson Monument
- 26, Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2BQ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the monument to appreciate the bronze bust and unique drinking troughs designed for animals, reflecting Coulson’s compassion.
- Explore nearby Quayside and Ouseburn to enjoy scenic views of the River Tyne while reflecting on the monument’s history.
- Look for the lion head carvings on the fountain, which are believed to be from a Roman fountain near Corbridge.
- Consider visiting the Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter, founded by Coulson, to connect with his ongoing legacy in animal welfare.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus routes 10 or 11 from Newcastle city center to the Ouseburn area; the journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening service. A single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Walking
From Newcastle Quayside, it is a pleasant 15-minute walk to the monument along paved urban paths. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchair users and families.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from central Newcastle to Horatio Street takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay approximately £6-£10 GBP. Taxis are readily available in the city center.
William Coulson Monument 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 William Coulson Monument
A Champion of Compassion and Animal Welfare
Colonel William Lisle Blenkinsopp Coulson was a notable 19th-century humanitarian and a forerunner of the modern animal rights movement. He was a founding member of the Humanitarian League, which campaigned against corporal and capital punishment, hunting for sport, and vivisection. Coulson’s dedication extended to founding the Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter, which remains active today. His life’s work was devoted to protecting the weak and defenseless among both humans and animals, earning him lasting respect in Newcastle and beyond.The Monument’s Artistic and Functional Design
The monument features a bronze bust of Coulson, sculpted by the French artist Arnold Frederic Rechberg and cast by the Alexis Rudier foundry in Paris. It rests on a sandstone pedestal set upon a pink granite base. Uniquely, the monument incorporates two drinking troughs: a larger one for horses and cattle, and a smaller one for dogs, symbolizing Coulson’s concern for animal welfare. Bronze lion heads, added later, adorn the fountain, thought to be repurposed from a Roman fountain near Corbridge, adding historical depth to the site.History of Location and Relocations
Unveiled on 27 May 1914 by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, the monument was originally sited near the Haymarket, close to the Boer War memorial. Due to increasing congestion, it was moved first to Percy Street in the 1930s and then to its current location on Horatio Street in the 1950s. Though the statue now faces the Sailors’ Bethel rather than the scenic River Tyne, it remains a prominent landmark within the city’s cultural landscape.Legacy and Symbolism
The monument serves as a public reminder of Coulson’s noble character and tireless efforts on behalf of humane causes. The inscription on the statue honors his commitment to justice, pity, and education of higher impulses in society. The drinking fountain aspect of the memorial is a practical tribute to his belief in alleviating animal suffering, particularly from lack of water. The monument is Grade II listed, cementing its importance as part of Newcastle’s heritage.The Coulson Family and Regional Roots
The Coulson family, through William’s marriage to Jane Blenkinsopp in the 18th century, inherited the Blenkinsop estate near Haltwhistle. William restored Blenkinsop Castle in the late 19th century, although much of the estate was sold due to financial difficulties. This connection grounds the monument not only in humanitarian ideals but also in the local history and landscape of Northumberland.Visiting the Monument Today
Situated on Horatio Street near the Ouseburn and Newcastle Quayside, the monument is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich social history. It stands as a testament to one of Newcastle’s most compassionate sons, inviting reflection on the enduring importance of kindness to all living beings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
William Coulson Monument
0.0 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
Blacksmiths Needle
0.5 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Little Buildings
0.5 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
River God
0.7 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Mermaid
0.7 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
The Custom House Plaque
1.0 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
1.0 km
Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.
Quayside
1.1 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
The Guildhall
1.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Castle Wall Well
1.3 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
The High Level Bridge
1.3 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Newcastle Keep
1.3 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
The Black Gate
1.3 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Grey St
1.4 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
1.5 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seven Stories
0.4 km
Discover the magic of children's books at Seven Stories, Newcastle’s vibrant national centre for storytelling, exhibitions, and family fun.
Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd
0.4 km
A vibrant urban farm and charity in Newcastle offering free access to animals, gardens, and sustainable community experiences.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
0.6 km
A striking riverside hub for cutting-edge contemporary art in a converted flour mill with panoramic Tyne views.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
0.6 km
A graceful tilting bridge spanning the Tyne, linking culture and city with iconic elegance and stunning river views.
The Biscuit Factory
0.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s largest independent contemporary art gallery set in a historic warehouse, blending creativity, culture, and community.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
0.9 km
A world-class music venue and education centre on Gateshead Quayside where music lives, grows, and inspires all ages.
Quayside Sunday Market
0.9 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Bonkers About Alice
0.9 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
Trinity House
1.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
All Saints Church
1.1 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
Tyne Bridge
1.1 km
Discover the iconic Tyne Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering and a symbol of Newcastle's rich heritage, offering breathtaking views and historical significance.
John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque
1.2 km
Celebrate Newcastle’s rich heritage with the John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque along Hadrian’s Wall Path, honoring a beloved TV historian and cultural advocate.
Side Photographic Gallery
1.2 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Historic England North East & Yorkshire
1.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s finest Jacobean merchants’ houses, famed for Bessie Surtees’ romantic 1772 elopement and richly preserved period interiors.
Laing Art Gallery
1.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s artistic heritage through historic and contemporary masterpieces at the Laing Art Gallery, a vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Essential places to dine
Cook House
0.4 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
SIX Rooftop at BALTIC
0.6 km
Elegant rooftop dining atop the BALTIC Centre with stunning views, seasonal British cuisine, and a stylish bar in Gateshead’s cultural heart.
Gusto Italian
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
Victors Newcastle
0.6 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
0.7 km
Stylish modern British dining and boutique hotel luxury on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside with riverside views and exclusive private rooms.
Tomahawk Steakhouse - Newcastle
0.8 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
21
0.9 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
The Broad Chare
0.9 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
Dobson and Parnell
1.1 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Aveika
1.1 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Uno's Trattoria
1.1 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
1.2 km
Newcastle’s only fresh pasta bar, serving hand-rolled egg pasta daily in a relaxed city-centre setting with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Babucho
1.2 km
Stylish Italian brasserie in Newcastle offering classic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and attentive service in a chic city-center setting.
Simla Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern touch in Newcastle’s warm and elegant Simla Restaurant, perfect for romantic and lively dining.
Prima Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
37 Studios
0.5 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
Bibelot Nook
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique homewares at Bibelot Nook, Newcastle’s hub for sustainable style and local artistry.
What About This
0.7 km
Explore Byker's vibrant ladies' clothing shop, 'What About This', where unique styles and local charm meet in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Flea Circus
0.9 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant vintage hub blending retro style, handmade crafts, and unique collectibles all under one roof.
Quayside News
1.2 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
UpSide Down Presents
1.3 km
A vibrant, independent gift shop under Newcastle’s railway arch, packed with Geordie souvenirs, original cards, and quirky presents for every occasion.
Souvenirs upon Tyne
1.3 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
Corner Shop
1.3 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
1.4 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
1.4 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
Earl and Coco
1.4 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Waceland
1.5 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
Cath Kidston
1.5 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
Urban Outfitters
1.5 km
Discover stylish fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Newcastle, a vibrant hub of creativity and contemporary lifestyle on Grainger Street.
The Works
1.5 km
Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tyne Bar
0.1 km
A vibrant hub for craft beer, live music, and community spirit nestled in Newcastle’s creative Ouseburn Valley.
Free Trade Inn
0.2 km
A historic riverside pub in Newcastle offering craft beers, stunning Tyne views, and a warm, lively atmosphere all day long.
Billy Bootleggers
0.5 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
0.6 km
A multi-level Quayside bar with panoramic Tyne views, long cocktails and a lively weekend vibe for groups and riverfront people-watching.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.8 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
The Head of Steam Quayside
0.9 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
1.3 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
Alvinos Bar
1.3 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
The Market Lane
1.3 km
Affectionately the 'Monkey Bar,' this Pilgrim Street pub pours quality pints and fosters lively vibes with sports screens, live music, and classic British charm in Newcastle's heart.
Lady Greys
1.3 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
All Bar One Newcastle
1.4 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
Blackie Boy
1.4 km
Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
Mother Mercy
1.4 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
All Seeing Eye.
1.5 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Holy Hobo
1.5 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
1.2 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
1.3 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Greys Club
1.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Flares - Newcastle
1.4 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Tup Tup Palace
1.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
1.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
1.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
1.5 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
Bohemia Newcastle
1.5 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
1.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Popworld - Newcastle
1.5 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Sinners
1.7 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
1.9 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Digital
2.0 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
2.1 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly