Edith Cavell Memorial, London
A solemn tribute in central London honoring Edith Cavell’s courage, compassion, and sacrifice during World War I.
The Edith Cavell Memorial in St Martin's Place, London, is a striking tribute to the British nurse executed during World War I for aiding Allied soldiers' escape from German-occupied Belgium. Featuring a white marble statue of Cavell and a towering granite pylon inscribed with her famous words, the memorial honors her courage, humanitarian spirit, and sacrifice, standing near Trafalgar Square amidst notable cultural landmarks.
A brief summary to Edith Cavell Memorial
- 10 St. Martin's Pl, London, WC2N 4JL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the detailed inscriptions and the statue’s serene expression.
- Combine your visit with nearby cultural landmarks like the National Portrait Gallery and Trafalgar Square.
- Take time to reflect on the inscriptions, especially Cavell’s famous words about patriotism and forgiveness.
- Attend remembrance ceremonies on or near October 12 to experience commemorations of Cavell’s legacy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Charing Cross station, about a 5-7 minute walk to the memorial. Frequent services run on the Northern and Bakerloo lines. Tickets cost £2.50–£5.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
-
Bus
Several bus routes, including numbers 6, 9, 15, and 23, stop near Trafalgar Square, within a 5-minute walk of the memorial. Buses operate frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.75 using contactless payment.
-
Walking
From Trafalgar Square, it is a short 5-minute walk north along St Martin’s Place on flat, paved paths accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Edith Cavell Memorial location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Edith Cavell Memorial
A Tribute to a Heroic Nurse
The Edith Cavell Memorial commemorates one of World War I’s most inspiring figures—a British nurse whose bravery and compassion transcended national boundaries. Edith Cavell served as matron at a nursing school in Brussels, where she treated wounded soldiers from all sides without discrimination. Beyond nursing, she helped over 200 Allied soldiers escape German-occupied Belgium, an act that led to her arrest and execution by firing squad in 1915. Her story symbolizes selfless sacrifice and humanitarian values that continue to resonate.Design and Symbolism of the Memorial
Designed by Sir George Frampton in a distinctive Modernist style, the memorial features a 10-foot statue of Cavell carved from white Carrara marble, depicting her in nurse’s uniform. This statue stands on a grey Cornish granite pedestal, set before a 40-foot granite pylon weighing 175 tons. The pylon is topped with a cross and a sculpture of a mother and child, often interpreted as the Virgin and Child. Inscribed on the monument are words embodying Cavell’s character and sacrifice, including “Humanity,” “Devotion,” “Fortitude,” “Sacrifice,” and the poignant phrase she spoke before her death: “Patriotism is not enough, I must have no hatred or bitterness for anyone.”Historical and Cultural Significance
Unveiled by Queen Alexandra in 1920, the memorial is located in St Martin's Place, just north of Trafalgar Square, near the former British Red Cross headquarters. It was one of the earliest war memorials to honor an individual woman and holds a Grade I listing for its historic and artistic importance. Cavell’s execution shocked the world and galvanized Allied public opinion during the war, making her a symbol of courage and moral conviction. Her legacy helped elevate the nursing profession and inspired humanitarian efforts worldwide.The Memorial’s Place in London’s Urban Landscape
Situated opposite the National Portrait Gallery and near the National Gallery and London Coliseum, the memorial occupies a prominent cultural and historic setting. The site’s proximity to these landmarks enhances its visibility and invites reflection amid the bustling heart of London. The monument’s imposing granite pylon and serene marble statue create a solemn yet dignified presence, offering a contemplative space within the city’s vibrant environment.Legacy and Reflection
The memorial continues to serve as a place of remembrance and inspiration. Edith Cavell’s philosophy of compassion without hatred, expressed in her final words, remains deeply relevant. Visitors often find themselves moved by the monument’s powerful symbolism and the story it tells of courage in the face of adversity. The memorial stands not only as a tribute to a remarkable individual but also as a reminder of the enduring human values of sacrifice, humanity, and forgiveness.Preservation and Recognition
Recognized for its exceptional significance, the Edith Cavell Memorial was upgraded to Grade I listed status in 2014. Conservation efforts ensure that the monument remains a well-preserved landmark for future generations. Its status highlights the importance of commemorating women’s contributions to history and the unique role Cavell played during a pivotal moment in the 20th century.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.1 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Eleanor Cross
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Nelson's Column
0.2 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.2 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.3 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.3 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Admiralty Arch
0.3 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
16-18 Whitehall
0.3 km
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.
York Watergate
0.3 km
Discover the York Watergate, a rare 17th-century gateway marking the old Thames riverside and London's vanished aristocratic waterfront.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.3 km
Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
Slingsby Place
0.3 km
Explore Slingsby Place, a serene scenic point in London, offering lush greenery and stunning architecture perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.
Café de Paris
0.3 km
Legendary West End cabaret where royalty danced, stars performed, and history was made—now closed after 96 years.
Old Admiralty Building
0.4 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.4 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.4 km
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
London Coliseum
0.1 km
Experience grand Edwardian theatre and world-class opera and ballet at the iconic London Coliseum in the heart of London’s West End.
National Portrait Gallery
0.1 km
Explore the world’s largest portrait collection showcasing British history and culture in a welcoming, accessible London landmark.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
0.1 km
An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
The National Gallery
0.1 km
Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Western European paintings, this grand London gallery offers free access to masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century.
Garrick Theatre
0.1 km
Experience timeless West End theatre in the intimate, historic Garrick Theatre, where classic charm meets captivating performances.
The Duke of York's Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre on St Martin's Lane, home to iconic productions and timeless British theatrical heritage.
Solve A Mystery - London (Pick-Up Point)
0.1 km
Unravel a historic murder mystery through iconic London streets in this immersive self-guided detective adventure.
London by Night Tours
0.1 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.2 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
Cecil Court
0.2 km
Discover Cecil Court, a historic London street famed for its Victorian charm, rare bookshops, early cinema heritage, and a brief Mozart residency.
Trafalgar Square
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
The Fourth Plinth
0.2 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Grand Building
0.2 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
Goodwin’s Court
0.2 km
Step into Goodwin’s Court, a hidden Georgian alley in Covent Garden where history, mystery, and cinematic magic blend in timeless charm.
ODEON Luxe Leicester Square
0.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Art Deco cinema with luxury recliners and the UK’s first Dolby Cinema screen in the heart of Leicester Square.
Essential places to dine
J Sheekey
0.2 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.3 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Clos Maggiore
0.3 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Rules
0.3 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.3 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.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
The Northall
0.4 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.4 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Punch & Judy
0.4 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Chez Antoinette
0.4 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Meet Fresh
0.4 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
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.
Cool Britania
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
M&M'S London
0.3 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Gifts of London
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
House of Spells
0.4 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.4 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Charing Cross Rd
0.4 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
The Moomin Shop London
0.4 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.4 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.4 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.1 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.1 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.2 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.2 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.3 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.3 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.3 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
Mrs Riot
0.3 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Upstairs At Rules
0.3 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Ku Bar
0.3 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Old Shades
0.3 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Oriole
0.4 km
Oriole invites you on a captivating global cocktail journey in Covent Garden, blending exotic flavours, elegant ambiance, and live music.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Heaven
0.3 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.3 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.
TSQ Club
0.3 km
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 Penthouse London
0.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tiger Tiger London
0.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Ivy Club
0.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Roxy
0.6 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 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.
Club49Soho
0.6 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Box Soho
0.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Proud Late
0.6 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
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
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Female Friendly
