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King Edward VII Statue, Sheffield: A Bronze Tribute to Regal Legacy

A majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII, standing proudly in Sheffield’s historic Fitzalan Square, blending regal artistry with rich local heritage.

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The King Edward VII Statue in Sheffield’s Fitzalan Square is a distinguished bronze monument unveiled in 1913. Designed by Alfred Drury, it commemorates the British monarch’s reign with intricate symbolic panels representing Fame, Truth, Peace, Philanthropy, and Unity. Set on a robust Aberdeen Kemnay Granite plinth, the statue stands as a historic landmark amid Sheffield’s vibrant city centre, reflecting both artistic mastery and the city’s heritage.

A brief summary to King Edward VII Statue

  • Fitzalan Sq, Sheffield, Sheffield City Centre, S1 2AY, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light to photograph the statue’s intricate details.
  • Take time to examine the four symbolic panels on the plinth, each telling a story of Fame, Peace, Philanthropy, and Unity.
  • Enjoy the surrounding Fitzalan Square, which often hosts markets and events, adding local vibrancy to your visit.
  • Combine your visit with nearby landmarks such as Sheffield Town Hall and the Peace Gardens for a fuller cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport (Bus)

    From Sheffield city centre, take buses 51, 52, or 75 towards Fitzalan Square. Buses run frequently, with a journey time of 5-10 minutes. Alight at the Fitzalan Square stop, located directly at the statue. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3 GBP. Note that service frequency may vary on weekends.

  • Walking

    From Sheffield Train Station, a 20-25 minute walk through the city centre will bring you to Fitzalan Square. The route is mostly flat and paved, suitable for wheelchair users and families with strollers. Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the urban scenery along the way.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from Sheffield Train Station to Fitzalan Square typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £5-£8 GBP. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially suitable for travelers with luggage or mobility considerations.

King Edward VII Statue location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about King Edward VII Statue

A Monument Honoring a Monarch

The King Edward VII Statue was unveiled in October 1913 in Sheffield’s Fitzalan Square as a memorial to King Edward VII, who reigned from 1901 until his death in 1910. Crafted by renowned sculptor Alfred Drury, the bronze statue stands approximately 2.9 metres tall atop a 4.27-metre Aberdeen Kemnay Granite plinth designed to endure Sheffield’s industrial pollution. The statue portrays the king in regal robes, symbolizing his stature and legacy, with his hands by his sides and a sharply defined bare head set on a long neck.

Symbolism Carved in Stone and Bronze

Surrounding the plinth are four intricately carved stone panels, each rich with allegorical meaning. The front panel features the figures of Fame and Truth holding the inscription “Edward VII 1841-1910,” symbolizing the monarch’s widespread renown and integrity. Another panel depicts Peace crowned by Gratitude, with figures representing Liberty, Rest, and Contentment, reflecting the king’s aspiration for harmony. The Philanthropy panel shows a woman presenting the Crippled Children’s Institute to a man representing Labour, surrounded by figures symbolizing anticipation and realization of charitable care. The final panel embodies Unity, with figures representing peoples from India, China, North America, New Zealand, and Australia, emphasizing the imperial connections and multicultural reach of Edward VII’s reign.

Historical Context and Location

Fitzalan Square, the statue’s home, has a rich history as Sheffield’s former market quarter dating back to medieval times. The square was redeveloped in the late 19th century and received a facelift in 2003, including cleaning and lighting enhancements for the statue. The unveiling ceremony in 1913 was a significant civic event, attended by thousands and officiated by the Duke of Norfolk. The statue has witnessed Sheffield’s transformations, including surviving the Blitz during World War II and ongoing urban renewal.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

Alfred Drury was a respected London sculptor, and his design for this statue reflects Edwardian artistic sensibilities and civic pride. The choice of bronze and granite materials was deliberate to withstand Sheffield’s industrial atmosphere. The statue not only commemorates a monarch but also serves as a cultural touchstone, linking Sheffield’s industrial heritage with broader imperial history through its symbolic panels.

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Located in the heart of Sheffield City Centre, the statue is surrounded by the lively atmosphere of Fitzalan Square, which hosts local events and markets. Visitors can appreciate the detailed craftsmanship of the statue and its panels while enjoying the green spaces and urban buzz. The statue is illuminated at night, enhancing its prominence as a landmark and photo opportunity.

Legacy and Preservation

Designated a Grade II listed structure, the King Edward VII Statue is protected for its historical and architectural importance. Its preservation reflects Sheffield’s commitment to honoring its heritage amidst modern development. The statue remains a focal point for cultural memory and public gatherings, bridging past and present in the city’s evolving landscape.

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