Statue of George V in Westminster, London
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
The Statue of George V stands prominently in Old Palace Yard, Westminster, London, near the Houses of Parliament. Sculpted from white Portland stone by Sir William Reid Dick before World War II, it was concealed in a quarry during the war and unveiled in 1947. The statue depicts King George V in regal attire, holding a sword, symbolizing his reign from 1910 to 1936. It rests on a Portland stone plinth designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, making it a significant historical landmark honoring this British monarch.
A brief summary to Statue of George V
- Abingdon St, London, SW1P 3JY, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue’s details and its setting near the Palace of Westminster.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament for a comprehensive historical tour.
- Bring a camera to capture the statue’s imposing presence and the surrounding iconic London architecture.
- Check weather conditions as the statue is outdoors and best viewed in clear skies for optimal photography.
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 Westminster station on the Jubilee, District, or Circle lines, located approximately 700 meters from Old Palace Yard. The journey from central London stations typically takes 10-20 minutes. The station is fully accessible, but expect crowds during peak hours. Fare ranges from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including routes 11, 24, and 148, stop near Westminster Abbey, about 300 meters from the statue. Buses run frequently every 5-15 minutes during the day. Tickets cost around £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment. Note that buses may be slower during peak traffic times.
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Walking
From Trafalgar Square, it is a roughly 15-minute walk along pedestrian-friendly streets with mostly flat terrain. The route is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering scenic views of central London landmarks en route.
Statue of George V location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Statue of George V
Monumental Tribute to a British Monarch
The Statue of George V is a distinguished memorial located in Old Palace Yard, Westminster, London. It commemorates King George V, who reigned over the United Kingdom from 1910 until 1936. Crafted from white Portland stone, the statue was sculpted by the renowned Scottish artist Sir William Reid Dick shortly before the outbreak of World War II. To protect it from wartime damage, the statue was hidden in a quarry, only to be unveiled in 1947, symbolizing resilience and continuity through turbulent times.Artistic Design and Symbolism
Standing approximately three meters tall, the statue portrays King George V in a dignified pose, cloaked and grasping a sword, reflecting his role as a monarch and leader. The sculptural style captures the formal portraiture typical of his era, blending realism with symbolic elements. The statue rests on a Portland stone plinth designed by the eminent architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, whose work complements the statue’s solemnity and grandeur. The king faces the Palace of Westminster, linking the monument visually and symbolically to Britain's seat of government.Historical Context and Location
Situated between the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, the statue occupies a historically rich and politically significant area of London. Old Palace Yard itself has been a site of royal and parliamentary importance for centuries. The statue’s placement here underscores George V’s legacy within British constitutional monarchy and the nation’s 20th-century history. It is part of a broader collection of statues and memorials in Westminster that honor notable figures from British history.Preservation and Public Engagement
Maintained as a public monument, the statue is accessible year-round and serves as a point of interest for visitors exploring London’s rich heritage. Its white Portland stone surface has weathered decades of exposure, and conservation efforts ensure it remains a lasting tribute. The statue’s presence invites reflection on the monarchy’s role during a period marked by war, social change, and the evolution of the British Empire.Architectural and Artistic Legacy
The collaboration between sculptor William Reid Dick and architect Giles Gilbert Scott represents a notable convergence of 20th-century British art and architecture. Reid Dick’s sculptural mastery and Scott’s architectural vision create a harmonious monument that balances artistic expression with historical reverence. This union enhances the statue’s status as a landmark within London’s cultural landscape.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors to the statue can appreciate its imposing presence against the backdrop of iconic London landmarks. The site offers a contemplative atmosphere amid the bustle of Westminster, providing a tangible connection to the nation’s royal history. Nearby, other statues and historic buildings enrich the experience, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in British heritage and monarchy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of George V
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A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Royal Court
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- 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
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
