The Erpingham Gate
The Erpingham Gate
Nelson Statue
Stand before Norwich's tribute to Admiral Nelson: a weathered stone sentinel in Cathedral Close, evoking Trafalgar's glory and Norfolk's naval pride amid Gothic spires.
The Nelson Statue in Upper Close, Norwich Cathedral, honors Admiral Horatio Nelson, Norfolk's heroic son who triumphed at Trafalgar. Commissioned in 1847 by the city for 800 guineas, this Thomas Milnes sculpture depicts Nelson holding a telescope atop a cannon, facing the school he attended as a boy. Located at 23 Tombland, it stands as a poignant tribute amid historic surroundings, accessible 24/7. Though showing signs of age, it evokes naval glory and local pride in a serene precinct setting.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Nelson Statue
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
12 am-12 pm
Tuesday
12 am-12 pm
Wednesday
12 am-12 pm
Thursday
12 am-12 pm
Friday
12 am-12 pm
Saturday
12 am-12 pm
Sunday
12 am-12 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From Norwich Railway Station, 15-min walk (1 km) via Prince of Wales Road and Tombland; free, flat paths, signposted historic route.
Bus
Bus 25 or X55 from station to Tombland (5 mins, £2), then 2-min walk; frequent service, accessible stops nearby.
Car
25-min drive from A11; park at Norwich Cathedral multi-storey (£10/4hrs), 3-min walk; limited street parking in precinct.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
Restrooms
Food Options
Seating Areas
Trash Bins
Information BoardsLocal tips
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Visit early morning for serene views without crowds; the statue faces the historic school Nelson attended.
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Combine with Norwich Cathedral tour; the precinct offers layered medieval and naval history.
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Note the telescope and cannon details symbolizing Nelson's command; best light in late afternoon.
Discover more about Nelson Statue
Historical Significance
The Nelson Statue commemorates Admiral Horatio Nelson, born in nearby Burnham Thorpe, Norfolk. Erected in 1847, it was sculpted by Thomas Milnes and purchased by Norwich for 800 guineas. Positioned in Cathedral Close facing Norwich Grammar School, where Nelson studied briefly in 1767, the statue captures him with a telescope and cannon at his feet on a hexagonal pedestal. This monument reflects Norfolk's deep connection to its naval hero, who secured Britain's dominance at Trafalgar in 1805, dying heroically aboard HMS Victory.Artistic Details
Thomas Milnes crafted the stone figure in a dignified pose, symbolizing vigilance and command. The pedestal features naval motifs, grounding the admiral in his maritime legacy. Surrounded by the medieval Norwich Cathedral precinct, the statue integrates into a landscape of ancient architecture, including the cathedral's Gothic spires and nearby Tombland's medieval streets. Its Grade II listing underscores architectural and historical value.Norfolk's Nelson Legacy
Norwich joins other Norfolk sites honoring Nelson, like the earlier Britannia Monument in Great Yarmouth. Artifacts such as his portrait by William Beechey in Blackfriars Hall and items from Cape St. Vincent at Norwich Castle enrich the story. The statue invites reflection on Nelson's humble origins, rapid rise through ranks—from Cape St. Vincent to the Nile—and his undying patriotism despite personal losses.Visiting the Site
Open around the clock in a public close, the statue suits quick visits or contemplative pauses. Its location near Tombland offers access to markets, cafes, and cathedral tours. Weathered by time, it prompts thoughts on preservation amid urban evolution. Ideal for history buffs tracing Norfolk's naval heritage.Cultural Context
The statue embodies 19th-century civic pride, funded publicly to immortalize a local legend. It stands quietly amid bustling Norwich, a reminder of Trafalgar's echoes in everyday heritage. Pair visits with cathedral exploration or nearby Wellington statue for dual Napoleonic insights.A brief summary to Nelson Statue
Use Nelson Statue as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Plan around the quieter times
A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.
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