Robert Peel Statue, Bury
Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Standing proudly in Bury’s Market Place, the bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel honours the town’s most famous son: twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern British police force. Erected in 1851, this Grade II listed monument features intricate bas-reliefs and inscriptions celebrating Peel’s legacy in law, trade, and social reform. Located in the heart of Bury town centre, it forms a focal point among historic buildings, the parish church, and the cenotaph, making it a natural stop for those exploring the town’s heritage and civic life.
A brief summary to Robert Peel Statue
- Market Pl, Bury, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in daylight to fully appreciate the statue’s bronze details and the inscriptions on its granite pedestal.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Market Place, the Cenotaph, and the historic Church of St Mary for a fuller sense of Bury’s town centre heritage.
- Look for the bas-relief panels on the pedestal’s sides, which depict commerce and navigation, and read the speech quotation on the back.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bury Interchange, the statue is a 5-minute walk through the town centre along Market Street and into Market Place. Buses and the Metrolink tram serve the interchange regularly, making it easy to reach from across Greater Manchester.
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On Foot
Within Bury town centre, the statue is a central landmark; from the market, shopping areas, or the parish church, it’s typically a 2–8 minute walk across paved, level streets.
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By Car
From nearby roads, park in one of Bury’s town centre car parks and walk to Market Place; the statue is clearly visible in the open square, about 5–10 minutes on foot from most central parking.
Robert Peel Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Robert Peel Statue
A Monument to a Statesman
Rising from Bury’s Market Place, the bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel stands as a powerful tribute to one of Lancashire’s most influential figures. Born in Bury in 1788, Peel served twice as Prime Minister and is best remembered for founding the modern police force, giving rise to the nicknames 'bobbies' and 'peelers'. The statue, unveiled in 1851 shortly after his death, was sculpted by Edward Hodges Baily, a prominent 19th-century artist known for his work on Nelson’s Column in London. At around 3.5 metres tall, the figure is mounted on a substantial granite pedestal, making it a commanding presence in the town centre.Design and Symbolism
The statue’s pedestal is rich with symbolic detail. The front bears the Peel coat of arms and the name 'Peel' in bronze lettering, while the sides feature bas-relief panels representing commerce and navigation, reflecting Bury’s industrial and trading heritage. On the rear, a bronze panel carries a quotation from one of Peel’s speeches, offering a glimpse into his political philosophy and oratory. These elements combine to create more than just a likeness; they form a narrative of Peel’s contributions to British society, from economic reform and the repeal of the Corn Laws to factory legislation and the liberalisation of criminal law.Heart of Bury Town Centre
Positioned in the historic Market Place, the statue sits at the civic and commercial heart of Bury. It faces the Cenotaph and stands near the historic Church of St Mary, creating a cluster of significant local landmarks. The surrounding area is lined with traditional shopfronts, pubs, and restaurants, giving the statue a lively, everyday context rather than a secluded, museum-like setting. This integration into daily life means visitors encounter Peel not as a distant historical figure, but as a constant presence in the town’s streetscape, anchoring Bury’s identity in its most famous son.A Living Heritage Site
The statue is a Grade II listed structure, recognised for its historical and artistic significance. This designation ensures its preservation and underscores its importance as a protected landmark. Locals and visitors alike pass by it regularly, whether shopping, commuting, or exploring Bury’s heritage. The monument serves both as a tourist attraction and as a local point of pride, often mentioned in civic events and historical walks. Its prominent location and detailed craftsmanship make it a natural starting point for understanding Bury’s role in national history and the enduring legacy of one of its most consequential sons.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Peel Statue
0.0 km
Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Sussex Avenue
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Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Peel Tower
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Heaton Park Temple
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Heaton Park Papal Monument
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Manchester Old Town Hall Colonnade
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Tonge Hall
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Lumb Viaduct
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Wayoh Reservoir
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Lowry Footbridge
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Robert Owen Statue
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The Undamaged Red Post Box
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Murrays' Mill
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Dalton Entry
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Mulberry Passage
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bury Transport Museum
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Explore vintage vehicles and interactive exhibits in a historic 1848 railway warehouse celebrating Northwest England’s transport heritage.
Radcliffe Tower
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Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Radcliffe Tower, a must-visit landmark in Manchester that encapsulates the essence of local heritage.
Eagle & Child Inn
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Historic Lancashire pub with five centuries of stories, ghosts, and award-winning hospitality.
Moses Gate Country Park
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Explore Bolton’s largest nature reserve with lakes, woodlands, wildlife, and family-friendly trails at Moses Gate Country Park.
Heaton Park
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Explore Manchester’s largest park with historic Heaton Hall, vast green spaces, family attractions, and year-round events in a stunning natural setting.
Heaton Hall
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Explore Heaton Hall’s exquisite neoclassical architecture and rich history nestled within Manchester’s expansive Heaton Park.
Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, Prestwich
7.2 km
A historic Grade I listed Anglican church in Prestwich with over 800 years of worship, rich architecture, and poignant community heritage.
Jumbles Country Park
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Peaceful reservoir walks, accessible trails, and woodland serenity await at Bolton’s Jumbles Country Park.
Heaton Park Tramway
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Step back in time with vintage tram rides and a charming museum nestled in Manchester’s scenic Heaton Park.
Hall i' th' Wood Museum
8.0 km
A rare Tudor manor house in Bolton, famous as the home where Samuel Crompton invented the Spinning Mule, now a museum of domestic and industrial history.
Uniquely Manchester Ltd
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Modern, secure, and flexible self-storage and workspace solutions in the heart of Middleton, Manchester.
Turton Tower
8.5 km
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Market Place Shopping Centre
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Victoria Sq
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Waugh's Well
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A serene moorland monument honoring Edwin Waugh, Lancashire’s cherished dialect poet and his creative refuge on Scout Moor.
Essential places to dine
Crowded House Restaurant
2.8 km
A vibrant blend of modern British dining, quirky charm, and lively bar culture in the heart of Bury.
Northern Crafthouse
4.5 km
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The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
12.2 km
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Restaurant Metamorphica
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Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
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Contemporary Italian dining with cocktails in Manchester's vibrant Corn Exchange.
Cosy Club
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Eclectic British dining and vibrant bar in Manchester’s historic Corn Exchange with stylish 1970s flair and a welcoming atmosphere.
Climat
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Sophisticated rooftop dining in Manchester with panoramic views, a Burgundy-focused wine cellar, and inventive seasonal sharing plates.
Trof Northern Quarter
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A multi-level Northern Quarter gem serving hearty British comfort food, craft beers, and rare bourbons in a lively, rustic setting.
TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar
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A beloved Northern Quarter gem serving seasonal British cuisine with award-winning roasts and warm, attentive service in a relaxed brasserie setting.
Liquor and Burn
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63 Degrees
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Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
Yard & Coop Manchester
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Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Gaucho Manchester
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Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
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Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Cane & Grain
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Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Salford Shopping Centre
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Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Annea Veleta
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A curated, maker-focused gift boutique in Ancoats offering handcrafted homewares, stationery and tasteful Manchester-themed keepsakes.
Hoot
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Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
GRACIOUS APPARELS
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Discover diverse fashion treasures in Ancoats: custom T-shirts, alterations, designer clothes, and more at this vibrant Manchester clothing hub.
Rams Gift World
12.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
12.8 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
&made
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Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Jessica6 Designs
12.9 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
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Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Menkind
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Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Deadstock General Store
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Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Pulse
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Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Amazonas Gifts
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Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Søstrene Grene
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Nordic Muse Lifestyle Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Nook & Cranny Bromley Cross
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Piggy Banks
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The Old Wellington
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The Washhouse
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Be At One - Manchester
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Wolf at the Door
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Bar Fringe
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The Crown & Kettle
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Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.
Science And Industry
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MOJO
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Corbieres Bar
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The Gas Lamp
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blossom street SOCIAL
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Behind Closed Doors
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KERB
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Underground
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Level Nightclub
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Hidden at Downtex Mill
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Bijou Club
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Cargo
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Club Liv Manchester
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Funkademia
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Mint Lounge
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YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
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Aatma
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Twenty Twenty Two
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Venue Nightclub
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42's
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History Nightclub
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Royal Vida Night Club
13.3 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
- Cultural
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly