King Charles I Standard Hill Monument, Nottingham
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, marking the start of the English Civil War in Nottingham.
The King Charles I Standard Hill Monument in Nottingham marks the historic site where King Charles I raised his royal standard on August 22, 1642, signaling the start of the English Civil War. Situated on Standard Hill, this landmark commemorates a pivotal moment in British history, set against the backdrop of Nottingham’s rich medieval and civil war heritage. The monument stands near St James’s Church, in an area once known as Hill Close, now Standard Hill.
A brief summary to King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
- 7 Standard Hl, Nottingham, NG1 6FX, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the nearby St James’s Church to explore its historical connection to Standard Hill.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Nottingham Castle’s grounds to appreciate the wider Civil War context.
- Look for the commemorative plaque marking the exact spot where the Royal Standard was raised.
- Explore Nottingham’s Old Market Square and other historic sites to deepen your understanding of the city’s heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take Nottingham City Transport buses 15 or 16 from the city center to Standard Hill; journey time approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run frequently during the day with a single fare around £2.50. Note limited service on Sundays.
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Tram
Use the Nottingham Express Transit tram to the nearest stop at Nottingham Station, then walk approximately 15 minutes uphill to Standard Hill. Tram fares start at £2.40 for a single journey. The walk involves some incline and may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
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Taxi
A taxi from Nottingham city center to Standard Hill takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. This is a convenient option for travelers with limited time or mobility.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
The Historic Significance of Standard Hill
Standard Hill holds a unique place in British history as the site where King Charles I raised his royal standard on August 22, 1642. This act marked the official beginning of the English Civil War, a conflict between the monarchy and Parliament that shaped the future of the nation. Originally, the standard was raised within the grounds of Nottingham Castle, but it was moved to this rocky knoll—then called Hill Close—to encourage more recruits to join the king’s cause. The hill’s renaming to Standard Hill commemorates this momentous event.Setting and Surroundings
The monument is located at 7 Standard Hill, Nottingham, near the west door of St James’s Church, which itself has historical ties to the area. The church was consecrated in 1809, established to serve the spiritual needs of a growing population distinct from the older parishes of Nottingham. The surrounding area, historically known as Castle Hills and later Standard Close, offers a glimpse into Nottingham’s layered past, from medieval times through the turbulent 17th century.Nottingham’s Role in the Civil War and Beyond
Nottingham was a strategic location during the English Civil War, with the castle and town playing key roles. While King Charles I raised his standard here to rally support, the town largely supported Parliament, leading to tense local dynamics. The castle itself was later partially demolished to prevent its use in future conflicts. Nottingham’s history of rebellion and political activism extends beyond the Civil War, with events such as the 1831 riots reflecting its ongoing significance in English social and political life.The Monument Today
The King Charles I Standard Hill Monument stands as a solemn reminder of the city’s pivotal role in national history. Though modest in scale, it marks a site of great symbolic importance. Visitors can reflect on the complex legacy of the Civil War and Nottingham’s rich heritage while viewing the plaque and surrounding area. The monument is accessible year-round and forms part of Nottingham’s historical landscape, inviting contemplation of the city’s past struggles and resilience.Architectural and Cultural Context
While the monument itself is simple, its location near St James’s Church and the remnants of Nottingham Castle enriches its cultural context. The area blends historic architecture with open spaces that have witnessed centuries of change. The juxtaposition of the monument with nearby heritage sites offers visitors a layered experience, connecting the story of a single event to the broader narrative of Nottingham’s evolution from medieval stronghold to modern city.Legacy and Commemoration
The raising of the Royal Standard at Standard Hill is commemorated not only by the monument but also through local memory and historical scholarship. It symbolizes the start of a defining conflict in British history and Nottingham’s role in it. The site continues to inspire interest in the Civil War era, serving as a focal point for education and remembrance within the city and beyond.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Chino Latino
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Las Iguanas - Nottingham
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Vivienne Westwood
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
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
