Royal Artillery Memorial at Hyde Park Corner
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
The Royal Artillery Memorial, unveiled in 1925 at Hyde Park Corner, London, commemorates the 49,076 Royal Artillery soldiers who died in the First World War. Designed by Charles Sargeant Jagger with architect Lionel Pearson, it is renowned for its powerful realism, featuring a stone howitzer and lifelike bronze figures that depict the harsh realities of war. This Grade I listed monument stands as a profound tribute to artillerymen’s sacrifice and the brutal nature of modern warfare.
A brief summary to Royal Artillery Memorial
- London, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during quieter weekday mornings to fully absorb the memorial’s details and atmosphere without crowds.
- Take time to study the bronze statues and bas-reliefs to appreciate the memorial’s unique realism and symbolism.
- Combine your visit with nearby war memorials at Hyde Park Corner for a comprehensive remembrance experience.
- Look for the inscriptions and the WWII bronze tablets added in 1949 to understand the memorial’s extended significance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly, District, or Circle Line to Hyde Park Corner station. From there, it is a 10-15 minute walk across busy roads and traffic islands to the memorial. The station is well-served, but the walk involves crossing major junctions, so allow extra time for safety.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Hyde Park Corner, including routes 9, 14, 19, and 22. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses drop you close to the memorial, but be prepared for some walking on busy streets.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London can take 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Drop-off is possible near the memorial, but traffic congestion at Hyde Park Corner can delay travel during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the memorial is feasible within 20-30 minutes from central London landmarks like Buckingham Palace. The route involves busy roads and some elevation changes, so suitable footwear and caution are advised.
Royal Artillery Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Royal Artillery Memorial
A Monument Honouring Artillerymen's Sacrifice
The Royal Artillery Memorial, located on the western side of Hyde Park Corner in London, is a striking tribute to the 49,076 soldiers of the Royal Regiment of Artillery who lost their lives during the First World War. Unveiled on 18 October 1925 by Prince Arthur, it was commissioned by the Royal Artillery War Commemoration Fund, reflecting the regiment's desire for a memorial that represented their identity and the realities of their service. Unlike many war memorials that focus on abstract symbolism or comforting imagery, this memorial confronts visitors with the brutal truth of war, embodying the ethos and mentality of the artillery corps.Design and Artistic Innovation
Designed by sculptor Charles Sargeant Jagger, with architectural input from Lionel Pearson, the memorial is celebrated as Jagger’s masterpiece and one of Britain’s finest war memorials. The centerpiece is a full-size 9.2-inch howitzer carved in stone, symbolizing the artillery’s power and role in the war. Surrounding the gun are life-size bronze statues of an officer, a driver, a shell carrier, and notably, a fallen soldier draped in a greatcoat, which was a bold and controversial inclusion at the time. The sides of the memorial feature bas-reliefs depicting trench scenes and the harsh labor of war, rendered in a style influenced by Assyrian art. This realism marked a departure from the more classical and symbolic memorials of the era.Historical Context and Controversy
The memorial’s raw depiction of death and machinery sparked debate upon unveiling. Some critics found the graphic representation of the dead soldier and the imposing artillery piece unsettling or inappropriate for a memorial. However, many veterans and artillerymen embraced the memorial as a truthful and fitting tribute that honored their experiences and sacrifices. The memorial’s orientation and asymmetrical base were carefully designed to complement the surrounding landscape and traffic island. In 1949, bronze tablets were added to commemorate the 29,924 Royal Artillerymen killed in the Second World War, further extending the memorial’s significance.Conservation and Recognition
Over the decades, exposure to pollution and weather caused damage to the memorial’s stone and bronze elements. English Heritage undertook a major restoration in 2011, preserving its intricate details and ensuring its longevity. The Royal Artillery Memorial was originally designated Grade II* listed in 1970 and was upgraded to Grade I status in 2014, recognizing its exceptional historic and artistic importance. The memorial now stands alongside other military monuments at Hyde Park Corner, forming a poignant cluster of remembrance for Britain’s war dead.Symbolism and Legacy
The memorial’s powerful imagery conveys the artillery’s motto, "ubique" (everywhere), reflecting the corps’ presence on every battlefield during the war. The howitzer is not merely a weapon but a symbol of pride and identity for the artillerymen. The fallen soldier figure reminds visitors of the human cost behind the machinery of war. This memorial remains a profound statement about the horrors of modern conflict, the sacrifices of those who served, and the enduring importance of remembrance.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Set on a busy traffic island at Hyde Park Corner, the memorial commands attention with its monumental scale and detailed craftsmanship. Visitors can appreciate the blend of sculpture and architecture, the emotional weight of the figures, and the historical narratives carved into the stone reliefs. Its proximity to other significant war memorials enhances its role as a focal point for reflection on Britain’s military history and the impact of the World Wars.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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