Queen Victoria Statue at Kensington Palace Gardens
A regal marble tribute to Queen Victoria, sculpted by her daughter, standing proudly in the gardens of her birthplace, Kensington Palace.
The Queen Victoria Statue stands proudly in Kensington Palace Gardens, London, commemorating the monarch who was born and raised at Kensington Palace. Sculpted by her daughter, Princess Louise, the statue portrays Victoria at 18 in her coronation robes, symbolizing the start of her long reign. Erected in 1893 for Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, it remains a historic landmark reflecting Victorian heritage and royal legacy.
A brief summary to Queen Victoria Statue
- Kensington Palace Gardens, London, W8 4PU, GB
- +443000612000
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue’s intricate details and the surrounding garden views.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Kensington Palace’s State Apartments and the Sunken Garden nearby.
- Look out for the subtle restorations on the statue’s nose, a result of World War II damage.
- Photography enthusiasts will find excellent framing opportunities with the palace façade as a backdrop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to High Street Kensington station on the Circle or District lines, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk through Kensington Gardens to reach the statue. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and the walk is accessible and scenic.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including the 9, 27, and 28, stop near Kensington Palace Gardens. From the nearest stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the statue. Buses run regularly throughout the day with fares starting at £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London to Kensington Palace Gardens typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be more expensive, with fares ranging from £10 to £20.
Queen Victoria Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Queen Victoria Statue
A Royal Tribute Sculpted by Family
The Queen Victoria Statue in Kensington Palace Gardens is a unique monument crafted by Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, who was not only Queen Victoria’s daughter but also a talented sculptress. Created to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in 1887, the statue was unveiled in 1893. It depicts the young Queen at 18, seated in her coronation robes, wearing her crown and holding a scepter. Princess Louise worked on the statue in her studio within the palace grounds, completing a deeply personal tribute to her mother. This familial connection adds an intimate layer to the statue’s historical significance.Historical Significance and Royal Connections
Queen Victoria was born Alexandrina Victoria at Kensington Palace in 1819 and lived there until ascending the throne in 1837. Her reign, known as the Victorian Era, lasted 63 years and was marked by profound industrial, political, and cultural transformations across the United Kingdom and beyond. The statue’s location in front of Kensington Palace, where Victoria spent her childhood, reinforces the deep connection between the monarch and this royal residence. The statue also survived damage during World War II, when shrapnel removed its nose; it was restored in 1952 and again in 2012 for Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee.Artistic and Cultural Context
The statue is carved from marble and stands on a plinth designed by Sir Aston Webb, a notable architect who also designed the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace. The statue’s design was inspired by a painted portrait of Victoria in her coronation robes by Sir George Hayter. The statue is a Grade II listed monument, recognizing its architectural and historical importance. Nearby, visitors can also explore other royal landmarks within Kensington Palace and Gardens, including the Sunken Garden and the statues of other notable figures such as Diana, Princess of Wales.Legacy and Public Engagement
The statue symbolizes both Queen Victoria’s personal history and her enduring legacy as a monarch who shaped an era. In 1899, Victoria opened parts of Kensington Palace to the public, a tradition that continues today, allowing visitors to explore the State Apartments and royal collections. The statue stands as a focal point for visitors, linking the palace’s past with its present role as a cultural and historical site. The statue also reflects the artistic talents of Princess Louise, who contributed significantly to the royal family’s cultural heritage.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Maintained as part of the royal estate, the statue is protected and preserved to retain its historical integrity. Visitors to Kensington Palace Gardens can view the statue in a tranquil setting framed by the palace’s garden façade. The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful environment, enhancing the contemplative experience of this royal monument. The statue’s presence enriches the cultural landscape of Kensington, inviting reflection on the life and reign of one of Britain’s most iconic monarchs.Symbolism and Artistic Details
The statue’s depiction of Queen Victoria in her youthful coronation robes captures the moment she became queen at just 18 years old. The scepter and crown signify her royal authority, while the serene expression conveys dignity and composure. The statue’s placement in front of her birthplace underscores the continuity of her life story from childhood to sovereign. This artistic representation serves not only as a historical marker but also as a symbol of Victorian values and the monarchy’s enduring presence in British culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kensington War Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Speke Monument
0.6 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Edward Jenner Memorial
0.9 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Space Apart Hotel
1.1 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
George Orwell Plaque
1.1 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Sussex Gardens
1.1 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.2 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.3 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.4 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
The Old Police House
1.5 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
37 Thurloe St
1.5 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Empire House
1.5 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.6 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
Queen Victoria Monument
1.6 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Thin House
1.6 km
Explore the unique architectural beauty of Thin House in South Kensington, a must-see tourist attraction in London showcasing history and charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kensington Palace
0.1 km
Discover centuries of royal history and serene gardens at Kensington Palace, a majestic London landmark and former home to British monarchs.
Round Pond
0.2 km
Historic ornamental lake in Kensington Gardens, home to model yachts and diverse wildlife, set against the iconic backdrop of Kensington Palace.
Kensington Palace Green
0.3 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Diana Memorial Playground
0.4 km
A magical, inclusive Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, offering imaginative play and adventure for children of all abilities.
Kensington Gardens
0.5 km
Explore Kensington Gardens, a royal London oasis blending historic grandeur, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly adventures across 265 acres of green space.
Kensington High St
0.5 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Notting Hill Bike tours
0.6 km
Discover London’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods on a safe, fun, and engaging bike tour through Notting Hill and beyond.
QUEENS skate dine bowl
0.6 km
London’s oldest year-round ice rink, bowling lanes, and vibrant dining combine for nonstop fun at QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl on Queensway.
The Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and gilded grandeur.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.7 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical summerhouse in Kensington Gardens, celebrating Queen Caroline’s artistic and landscape legacy.
Clanricarde Gardens
0.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Clanricarde Gardens, a hidden gem in London, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature in the bustling city.
Serpentine Gallery
0.8 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
Royal Albert Hall
0.8 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
Lancaster Gate
0.8 km
Elegant Victorian terraces bordering Hyde Park, offering tranquil sophistication and superb access to London’s cultural heart.
Imperial Cinema
0.8 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Essential places to dine
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.4 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
0.4 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Grato
0.6 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.6 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
The Shed
0.7 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.2 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Il Portico
1.2 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.2 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Gold
1.4 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.4 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kensington Palace Shop
0.1 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Good
0.5 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.5 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Jigsaw
0.5 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
The London Shop
0.7 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Notting hill store
0.9 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
The gift store
1.0 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Appletree boutique
1.0 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.0 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
the Design Museum Shop
1.2 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Science Museum Shop
1.2 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
1.2 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
1.3 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.3 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piano Kensington
0.3 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
Stables Bar
0.4 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
AMARO BAR - London
0.4 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
0.5 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
0.6 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Builders Arms
0.7 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Bar 190
0.7 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
0.9 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Sun In Splendour
1.0 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.4 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.4 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Dickens Tavern
1.4 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Walmer Castle
1.4 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.4 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Notting Hill Arts Club
0.7 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Metric
0.8 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Dolce Night Club , London
1.5 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
1.5 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
The Globe
1.6 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
The Duke of Wellington
1.7 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
Ricco London
1.8 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
Subteranian
2.1 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Carwash Nightclub
3.0 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
LUXX CLUB LONDON
3.0 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
3.1 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Lost In Disco
3.2 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
The Cuckoo Club
3.4 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
