Queen Victoria Statue at Clifftown Parade, Southend-on-Sea

Historic marble statue of Queen Victoria overlooking Southend’s seafront, symbolizing Victorian heritage and seaside charm.

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Queen Victoria Statue

The Queen Victoria Statue in Southend-on-Sea is a historic marble monument commemorating Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897. Originally unveiled at Pier Hill in 1898, the statue depicts the Queen enthroned in neo-Gothic style, carved from a massive block of Carrara marble. Relocated in 1962 to Clifftown Parade, it overlooks the seafront, symbolizing Southend’s Victorian heritage and seaside charm.

A brief summary to Queen Victoria Statue

4-7 Clifftown Parade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1DP, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate marble details and coastal views.
Combine your visit with a walk along Clifftown Parade to explore Southend’s Victorian seaside atmosphere.
Look for the wrought iron fence around the statue base, installed to protect it from vandalism.
Photography enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities capturing the statue against the backdrop of the sea.

Getting There

Bus

Take local bus services running to Southend town center; from there, Clifftown Parade is a 10-15 minute walk along the seafront. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4, with frequent service during the day.
Train

Southend Central railway station is approximately 1.5 km from Clifftown Parade. From the station, a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride costing around £5 will bring you to the statue.
Car

Driving to Clifftown Parade is straightforward with parking available in nearby public car parks. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. Note that weekends and holidays may see higher demand for parking spaces.

Queen Victoria Statue location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Windy Conditions
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about Queen Victoria Statue

Origins and Artistic Heritage

The Queen Victoria Statue was commissioned to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897, a significant milestone marking 60 years of her reign. Gifted to Southend-on-Sea by then-mayor Bernard Wiltshire Tolhurst, the statue was sculpted by Joseph Swynnerton in his Italian studio using a 19-tonne block of pristine Carrara marble. The monument stands approximately 20 feet tall and features the Queen seated on a throne designed in neo-Gothic style by architect Edward Goldie, known for his Roman Catholic church designs. This artistic collaboration blends regal symbolism with Victorian architectural elegance.

Historical Placement and Relocation

Originally unveiled on 24 May 1898 at Pier Hill, the statue was strategically positioned to face north towards the River Thames, symbolically watching over passing vessels. It was a prominent landmark near the Royal Hotel, though local humor once noted its orientation towards the gentlemen's toilets. In the 1960s, changing urban development and architectural trends prompted the relocation of the statue to Clifftown Parade, where it has since presided over the Southend seafront. This move preserved the statue’s visibility while adapting to the evolving cityscape.

Symbolism and Physical Features

Queen Victoria is depicted enthroned, embodying dignity and authority. The statue originally featured the Queen holding a sceptre, which has since been lost due to vandalism. Over the years, damage to the statue included the breaking and theft of the Queen’s fingers, but restoration efforts in 2020 saw local sculptors craft a new hand to restore its integrity. The statue’s nose shows signs of weathering, a testament to its age and seaside exposure. A wrought iron fence now protects the monument from further vandalism, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Connection to Southend’s Victorian Seaside Identity

Southend-on-Sea’s identity as a Victorian seaside resort is closely linked to this statue. The monument not only commemorates the Queen but also reflects Southend’s historical significance as a popular retreat during the Victorian era. Positioned on Clifftown Parade, the statue overlooks the coastline, connecting visitors to the town’s maritime past and its cultural heritage. It stands as a reminder of the town’s evolution and its enduring ties to the Victorian period.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Today, the Queen Victoria Statue is a cherished historical landmark and a photographic highlight along the Southend seafront. Visitors can appreciate the intricate marble craftsmanship while enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. The statue’s serene presence contributes to the tranquil and reflective atmosphere of Clifftown Parade, inviting contemplation of the town’s rich history and the legacy of Queen Victoria herself.

Preservation and Community Value

Despite challenges from weather and vandalism, local authorities and community groups have actively worked to maintain and protect the statue. The installation of protective fencing and restoration of damaged parts demonstrate a commitment to preserving this emblem of Southend’s heritage. The statue continues to be a focal point for cultural pride and historical education, linking past and present in a meaningful way.

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Unmissable attractions to see

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Prittlewell Gardens

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Pulp Kitchen

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Never Never Land

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The Shrubbery

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Southend Observation Tower

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The Royals Shopping Centre

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Adventure Island

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

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Africa Crafts Centre

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The Works

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Nightclubs & after hour spots

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Queen Victoria Statue at Clifftown Parade, Southend-on-Sea

A brief summary to Queen Victoria Statue

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Train

Car

Queen Victoria Statue location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Queen Victoria Statue

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Queen Victoria Statue

Origins and Artistic Heritage

Historical Placement and Relocation

Symbolism and Physical Features

Connection to Southend’s Victorian Seaside Identity

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Preservation and Community Value

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial

Laindon War Memorial

Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower

Barnards Miniature Railway

Tilbury Fort

Ingatestone Hall

St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham

Hylands House

Falklands Island Monument

Chelmsford Cathedral

Mountnessing Windmill

Upside Down House – Lakeside

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary

Mersea Island Museum

The Tiptree Jam Museum

Unmissable attractions to see

Cliff Lift

Prittlewell Gardens

Rocket01 street art mural

Pulp Kitchen

Never Never Land

The Shrubbery

Southend Observation Tower

The Royals Shopping Centre

Talking post

Southend Pier and Railway

Adventure Inside

Adventure Island

Focal Point Gallery

Westcliff clifton parade

Spinning Turtle Ride

Essential places to dine

La Petite Petanque

Aurum Restaurant

San Fairie Ann

The Mews

The Royal Hotel

Tomassi's

Clarence Restaurant & Cafe

Waves Restaurant

The Pipe of Port

The Sunflower Bistro

Rose Restaurant

Molo Lounge

Il Pescatore

Great Tides Restaurant & Bar

ASK Italian

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

By the Sea Vintage

Linked UK Clothing Limited

Books-on-Sea

Santas Surprise Letter

Africa Crafts Centre

The Works

That's Bizarre

Clinton Cards

ideal gift shop

Victoria Shopping Centre

Teddy Station