Soldier's Statue, Windsor: A Modern Tribute to Valor
A striking modern military memorial in Windsor honoring the Irish Guards with materials from Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Soldier's Statue in Windsor stands as a powerful modern military memorial honoring the sacrifices of soldiers, especially those of the Irish Guards. Crafted from bronze salvaged from the Iraq War and set on a plinth incorporating rubble from Afghanistan, this imposing statue depicts a soldier in contemporary battle fatigues. Located near Windsor Castle, it offers a reflective space with benches and shade, blending history and solemn remembrance in a serene setting.
A brief summary to Soldier's Statue
- 3 St Alban's St, Windsor, SL4 1PF, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue’s details and enjoy the shaded benches nearby.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Windsor Castle and the Long Walk for a rich historical experience.
- Take a moment to reflect quietly at the statue, which serves as a solemn tribute to modern military service.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local buses from Windsor town center to nearby stops on St Alban's Street take approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run frequently during the day with fares around £2-£4. Note that some routes may have limited evening service.
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Train and Walk
From Windsor & Eton Central railway station, it is a 15-minute walk along pedestrian-friendly streets to the statue. The walk is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors.
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Taxi
Taxis from Windsor town center to the Soldier's Statue typically take 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5-£10. Taxi ranks are available near the train stations and town center.
Soldier's Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Soldier's Statue
A Contemporary Memorial Honoring Service and Sacrifice
The Soldier's Statue in Windsor is a striking modern tribute dedicated to the courage and sacrifices of soldiers, particularly those who served with the 1st Battalion of the Irish Guards. Unveiled in 2011, the statue stands over 4.5 metres (about 15 feet) tall, making it an imposing figure along the roadside. Unlike traditional military monuments, this statue features a soldier clad in modern combat fatigues, symbolizing the ongoing commitment and bravery of contemporary armed forces.Materials Steeped in Recent Military History
The statue’s bronze was uniquely sourced from materials recovered from the Iraq War, giving it a tangible connection to recent conflicts. The plinth supporting the figure incorporates rubble brought back from Afghanistan, linking the monument physically and symbolically to two of the most significant theatres of war where the Irish Guards have served and suffered casualties. This use of authentic materials deepens the statue’s role as a living memorial to modern military history.Location and Surroundings Enhancing Reflection
Situated at 3 St Alban's Street, close to Windsor Castle and the Long Walk, the statue occupies a serene and accessible spot. The area around the statue is thoughtfully designed with benches and shaded spaces, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the sacrifices commemorated here. Its proximity to historical landmarks adds layers of meaning, connecting Windsor’s royal heritage with the valor of its military defenders.Artistic Design and Symbolism
Created by a former paratrooper, the statue’s detailed craftsmanship captures the solemn dignity of the soldier’s role. The modern style contrasts with Windsor’s historic surroundings, emphasizing the continuity of service from past to present. The statue serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the ongoing dedication of those in uniform.A Place for Quiet Remembrance
Beyond its artistic and historical significance, the Soldier's Statue functions as a peaceful retreat within the bustle of Windsor. Visitors often find the space conducive to quiet contemplation, supported by the calm atmosphere and seating areas. It stands as a poignant counterpoint to the grandeur of the nearby castle, focusing attention on individual sacrifice and collective memory.Connecting Past and Present Through Memorialization
The monument bridges Windsor’s rich royal and military traditions with contemporary realities of warfare. By incorporating materials from recent conflicts, it personalizes the experience of remembrance, making history immediate and relevant. The Soldier's Statue thus enriches Windsor’s cultural landscape, offering a meaningful site for education, reflection, and respect.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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John F Kennedy Memorial
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ancient well
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Windsor Parish Church of St John the Baptist
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Bachelor's Acre
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Windsor Guildhall
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Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
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The Crooked House of Windsor
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Queen Charlotte Street
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Discover England’s shortest street, a charming cobblestone lane steeped in history and Victorian elegance, right by Windsor Castle.
Queen Elizabeth II: Windsor memorial drinking fountain
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A regal and sustainable tribute to Queen Elizabeth II offering free drinking water in the historic heart of Windsor.
Historical Windsor
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Step into Windsor’s rich past and vibrant present on historic Peascod Street, where royal heritage meets charming shopping.
The Long Walk
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A majestic 2.65-mile tree-lined ceremonial avenue connecting Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse, steeped in royal history and natural splendor.
St George's Chapel
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Discover the majestic St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, a Gothic masterpiece and royal sanctuary steeped in centuries of British history.
FUZZY BEAR Cocktails & Comedy
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Experience vibrant comedy nights and creative cocktails in a unique railway arch venue in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife.
Windsor Castle
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Explore Windsor Castle, the historic royal residence, and uncover centuries of British history within its majestic walls and beautiful gardens.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
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Theatre Royal Windsor
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Essential places to dine
À la Russe
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Meat At The Parish
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1423 China Kitchen
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Latino
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Maison Meejana
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The Queen Charlotte
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Eighteen
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Leaf At The Castle
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Clarence Brasserie & Tea Room
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Plate at No. 6
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Bluegrass BBQ
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K Kitchen
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The Ivy Windsor
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Sebastian's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great British Gifts
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Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs
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House Of Gifts
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A Little Present
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King & Queen Gift Shop
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Glorious Britain
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Indelibly Windsor
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Crew Clothing
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huttons
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Marks and Spencer
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Windsor Royal Station
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Temptation Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Corner House
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The Two Brewers
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The Prince Harry
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The Cobbles
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The Shambles
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The Carpenters Arms
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The Horse & Groom
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The Acre
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The Sinner Bar
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All Bar One Windsor
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The Piper Art Bar
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The Queen Victoria
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
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