Duke of York Column, London
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
The Duke of York Column is a towering granite monument in central London commemorating Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, the second son of King George III. Standing 42 meters tall, it features a bronze statue of the Duke atop a Tuscan column and is located at Waterloo Place, overlooking The Mall and St James's Park. Built between 1831 and 1834, it honors the Duke's military reforms and leadership during the Napoleonic Wars, funded largely by soldiers' contributions.
A brief summary to Duke of York Column
- London, SW1Y 5AJ, GB
- +443000612000
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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 the golden hour for the best light to photograph the column and statue.
- Learn about the Duke of York’s role in reforming the British Army to deepen your appreciation.
- Explore the surrounding Waterloo Place sculptures and the Duke of York Steps for a fuller historic experience.
- Take a moment to sit on nearby benches along The Mall to soak in the ceremonial atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly or Victoria Line to Green Park station, then walk approximately 10-15 minutes along The Mall to Waterloo Place where the column stands. The station is well-serviced with frequent trains; expect a total journey time of 20-30 minutes from central London. No additional fare beyond standard Underground pricing applies.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including numbers 9, 14, and 19, stop near The Mall or Pall Mall, within a 5-minute walk to the Duke of York Column. Bus journeys vary from 15 to 40 minutes depending on your starting point. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares, typically under £3 per ride.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations like Trafalgar Square to Waterloo Place takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic. Prices generally range from £8 to £15. Note that traffic congestion charges may apply during peak hours.
Duke of York Column location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Duke of York Column
A Monument Honoring Military Reform and Legacy
The Duke of York Column stands as a grand tribute to Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, the second son of King George III. Known for his pivotal role as Commander-in-Chief of the British Army, the Duke implemented crucial reforms that modernized the military during the Napoleonic Wars, shaping the British Army’s future effectiveness. Following his death in 1827, a fund was raised primarily by soldiers who donated a day's pay each, reflecting the deep respect he earned from the troops he led and reformed.Architectural Design and Construction
Designed by architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt, the column was constructed between 1831 and 1834. It rises approximately 42 meters (137 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest free-standing columns in London. The structure is made of granite with a cast iron base, enveloped in Portland stone, showcasing advanced engineering for its time. Atop the column stands a bronze statue of the Duke, sculpted by Sir Richard Westmacott, measuring over four meters tall and weighing over 7,600 kilograms. The statue depicts the Duke dressed in the robes of the Knights of the Garter, symbolizing his noble status.Location and Urban Context
The column is prominently situated at Waterloo Place, where Regent Street meets The Mall, flanked by the elegant Carlton House Terraces. This location was purposefully selected as the southern terminus of John Nash’s grand urban design linking Regent’s Park to Westminster. The column stands above the Duke of York Steps, a monumental flight of stairs leading down to The Mall, a ceremonial route used for royal processions. From its base, visitors can enjoy views over The Mall and St James's Park, adding to its significance within London’s historic landscape.Visitor Experience and Historical Anecdotes
Inside the column is a spiral staircase of 168 steps that once led to a viewing platform at the top, although public access is now restricted. The column’s height and commanding presence have inspired local lore, including jokes that the Duke was trying to escape his creditors, as he died heavily in debt. The column also has a somber history, with recorded suicides from the viewing platform in the 19th century leading to its closure. Today, the column forms a majestic backdrop to events and ceremonies along The Mall, blending history with the vibrant life of the city.Architectural Ensemble and Surroundings
Waterloo Place is home to several other notable sculptures and memorials, including statues of King Edward VII and Florence Nightingale, enhancing the area’s cultural richness. The column’s placement within this ensemble reflects the grandeur of early 19th-century London urban planning and architecture. Its presence complements the nearby Horse Guards Parade and the ceremonial route, making it a key landmark within the city’s historic core.Photographic and Cultural Highlights
For visitors, the Duke of York Column offers excellent photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hour when the light accentuates the Portland stone and bronze statue. Its alignment with The Mall provides a striking visual axis that captures the ceremonial heart of London. Sitting on nearby benches allows visitors to absorb the historic atmosphere and observe the daily rhythms of city life, where the column stands as both a monument and a living part of London’s urban fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
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3 Carlton House Terrace
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Guards Crimean War Memorial
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Royal Marines Memorial
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A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Captain James Cook
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Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
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A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Admiralty Arch
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A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Old Admiralty Building
0.2 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
St James's Square
0.2 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Guards Memorial
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A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
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16-18 Whitehall
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Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Nelson's Column
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A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
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A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Dover House
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Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Carlton House Terrace
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Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Sir Keith Park statue
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Honoring Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, the Defender of London during WWII’s Battle of Britain, through a striking bronze statue in central London.
Waterloo Pl
0.1 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
Carlton Gardens
0.1 km
Elegant Regency architecture and serene gardens meet rich wartime history in the heart of London’s prestigious Carlton Gardens.
Pall Mall
0.2 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.2 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.2 km
Experience London's historic His Majesty's Theatre, home to iconic musicals and timeless theatrical heritage in the vibrant Haymarket district.
Canada House
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Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Theatre Royal Haymarket
0.2 km
Historic West End theatre with rich traditions, elegant design, and acclaimed productions in London’s vibrant Haymarket district.
The Mall
0.3 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
The Fourth Plinth
0.3 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Haymarket
0.3 km
Step into the Theatre Royal Haymarket, a historic West End jewel blending Georgian elegance with three centuries of theatrical brilliance.
Wonderville
0.3 km
Discover Wonderville, London’s captivating cabaret club blending magic, comedy, and variety in an intimate West End setting near Piccadilly Circus.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.3 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Wild Honey St James
0.1 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.4 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Golden Lion
0.4 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Quaglino's
0.5 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
The Garden
0.5 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.5 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Great British Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Kricket Soho
0.6 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
J Sheekey
0.6 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.6 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Bantof
0.6 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Blacklock Soho
0.6 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Mele e Pere
0.7 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Floris London
0.4 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.5 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
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Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
John Lobb St. James
0.5 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Prestat Chocolates
0.5 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Princes Arcade
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A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Cool Britania
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Fortnum & Mason
0.5 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Piccadilly Arcade
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Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
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Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.6 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Unique Britain
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
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Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
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Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
All Bar One Leicester Square
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Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
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Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Harp, Covent Garden
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A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
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Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Gordon's Wine Bar
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Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
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Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
The Thin White Duke
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Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
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A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Ku Bar
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Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Two Chairmen
0.6 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
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Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Duke of Argyll
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Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
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Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Scotch of St James
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Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Zoo Bar & Club
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Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Heaven
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London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Cuckoo Club
0.6 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.6 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.7 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Tabu London
0.7 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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.7 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.7 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
0.7 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Ivy Club
0.8 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Classic
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly