Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue in Parliament Square, London
London’s first statue of a woman in Parliament Square, honoring suffragist Millicent Garrett Fawcett’s legacy of courage and equality.
The Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue, unveiled in 2018 in Parliament Square, London, is the first monument to a woman and the first sculpture by a woman in this historic political space. Created by Turner Prize-winning artist Gillian Wearing, the statue commemorates Fawcett’s leadership in the British women’s suffrage movement. The bronze figure holds a banner inscribed with 'Courage calls to courage everywhere,' symbolizing the collective struggle for women's voting rights.
A brief summary to Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
- London, GB
- +442035986154
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details of the bronze statue and the etched suffrage campaigners on the plinth.
- Take time to observe the flower beds around the statue, planted in the suffragist colors of red, white, and green.
- Combine your visit with nearby Parliament Square statues of other historical leaders like Gandhi and Mandela for a broader historical context.
- Learn about Millicent Fawcett’s speech ‘Courage calls to courage everywhere’ to deepen your understanding of the banner’s significance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Westminster station on the Jubilee, District, or Circle lines, located approximately 500 meters from Parliament Square. The journey from central London stations typically takes 10-20 minutes. The station is wheelchair accessible, but expect crowds during peak hours. A single journey fare ranges from £2.50 to £4.90 depending on travel zones and payment method.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve Parliament Square, including routes 11, 24, 148, and 211. Buses arrive every 5-15 minutes depending on the time of day. The nearest stops are within 200 meters of the statue. Bus fares are approximately £1.75 with contactless payment or Oyster card.
-
Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to Parliament Square is pleasant and accessible via paved paths. Walking times vary but expect 10-25 minutes from central London landmarks such as Trafalgar Square or the South Bank. Terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
A Historic First in Parliament Square
The Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue stands as a groundbreaking monument in Parliament Square, Westminster, London. Unveiled on 24 April 2018, it is the first statue of a woman and the first sculpture created by a woman to be installed in this politically significant square, which until then featured only male figures. This milestone was achieved following a successful campaign led by activist Caroline Criado Perez, who highlighted the absence of female representation in this iconic public space. The statue’s creation was supported by the Mayor of London and the UK government’s Centenary Fund, commemorating 100 years since some women first gained the right to vote.Design and Symbolism by Gillian Wearing
Turner Prize-winning artist Gillian Wearing designed the statue to depict Millicent Garrett Fawcett as a dignified, determined figure at the age of 50, when she became president of the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies (NUWSS). Fawcett holds a banner bearing the phrase “Courage calls to courage everywhere,” a quote from her speech following the death of suffragette Emily Wilding Davison. The statue’s plinth is etched with 59 images of other suffrage campaigners, representing the collective nature of the movement and honoring the many who contributed to women’s enfranchisement.Millicent Fawcett’s Legacy
Millicent Garrett Fawcett (1847–1929) was a leading figure in the constitutional campaign for women’s suffrage in the UK. She played a vital role in forming the NUWSS in 1897 and worked tirelessly to promote women’s voting rights through peaceful lobbying and advocacy. Her efforts contributed to the passage of the Representation of the People Act 1918, which granted voting rights to some women over 30, and later the Equal Franchise Act 1928, which extended equal voting rights to all women. Beyond suffrage, Fawcett was an influential advocate for women’s education and social reform.The Statue’s Place Among Great Leaders
Situated near statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela in Parliament Square, the Fawcett statue connects her legacy to other global champions of justice and equality. The statue marks a broader recognition of women’s rights activism and serves as a symbol of inspiration for future generations. The surrounding flower beds are planted with the colors of the suffragist movement—red, white, and green—further embedding the statue in the history and symbolism of women’s struggle for equality.Artistic and Cultural Impact
The statue’s unveiling was a significant cultural event attended by political leaders, descendants of Fawcett, activists, and schoolchildren, highlighting the intergenerational impact of the suffrage movement. The statue not only commemorates Fawcett’s achievements but also challenges the historical underrepresentation of women in public monuments. It stands as a testament to the power of activism, art, and collective memory in reshaping public spaces and narratives.Ongoing Commemorations and Related Memorials
In addition to this statue, Millicent Fawcett is commemorated by blue plaques in London and Cambridge, a memorial in Westminster Abbey, and the naming of rooms and schools in her honor. These sites collectively celebrate her contributions to women’s rights and British social history, ensuring her enduring presence in the cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.0 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Westminster Hall
0.1 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
King Charles Street
0.1 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
King Charles Street Arch
0.2 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.2 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Statue of George V
0.2 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Clive of India Memorial
0.2 km
A towering Edwardian statue in London commemorating Robert Clive, founder of British rule in India, embodying imperial triumph and controversy.
Clive Steps
0.2 km
A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
The Cenotaph
0.2 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
10 Downing Street
0.3 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
10 Downing St
0.3 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Cockpit Steps
0.3 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
The Women of World War II
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Chindit Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parliament Square Garden
0.0 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
Parliament Sq
0.0 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.1 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
The Supreme Court
0.1 km
Explore the UK's highest court in a stunning neo-Gothic building at the heart of London’s political and judicial district.
St Margaret's Church
0.1 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
Bridge St
0.1 km
Historic Bridge Street in London offers riverside views, rich heritage, and vibrant urban life beside the iconic London Bridge.
Westminster Abbey
0.2 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
Big Ben
0.2 km
Explore Big Ben, London's iconic clock tower, a cultural landmark and symbol of British history, attracting millions of tourists each year.
The Sanctuary
0.2 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Westminster, with cozy rooms, a classic pub, and sustainable hospitality.
Palace of Westminster
0.2 km
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic heart of British democracy in London.
Churchill War Rooms
0.2 km
Britain's secret wartime headquarters where Churchill directed the fight against Nazi tyranny from underground bunkers beneath Westminster.
Central Hall Westminster
0.2 km
Iconic Grade II* listed venue with Europe’s largest self-supporting dome, hosting historic and modern events in central London.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proud on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Jewel Tower
0.3 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a medieval fortress guarding royal treasures and parliamentary history opposite London’s iconic Houses of Parliament.
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.3 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
Essential places to dine
The Pem
0.4 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Ma La Sichuan
0.5 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Caxton Grill
0.5 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.6 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.6 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
OKAN South Bank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 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.
Sapori
0.6 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Troia Southbank
0.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Garden
0.7 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.7 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Wild Honey St James
0.8 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.1 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.1 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.2 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Browns of London
0.5 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.6 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Crest of London Ltd
0.7 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.7 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Gifts of London
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.9 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.9 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.9 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
John Lobb St. James
1.0 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
The Giftree London
1.0 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Cardinal Place
1.0 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
1.1 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Westminster Arms
0.2 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.2 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Two Chairmen
0.3 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Blue Boar Pub
0.4 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
The Spy Bar
0.5 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Adam & Eve
0.6 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Le Champagne Bar
0.6 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Old Shades
0.6 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Primo Bar, London
0.7 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.7 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.7 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Victoria
0.8 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.8 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.8 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.8 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.
Cirque Du Soul
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.8 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.
The Scotch of St James
1.0 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Tiger Tiger London
1.1 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
1.1 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.1 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.1 km
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.
The Penthouse London
1.1 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Proud Late
1.2 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.
The Cuckoo Club
1.2 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Tabu London
1.2 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist 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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
