Albert Clock

Albert Clock is a Victorian clock tower in the centre of Barnstaple, North Devon, built as a memorial to Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria. Standing in The Square, it is one of the town's most recognisable landmarks and a convenient starting point for a stroll around the historic centre.

What is the Albert Clock?

The tower is a public memorial completed in 1862, the year after Prince Albert died in December 1861. Like many Victorian commemorations of the prince, it was funded by public subscription rather than by the Crown or the council alone. The initiative is credited to the town's mayor of the day, John Norrington. According to local accounts, the first idea for the monument did not include a clock at all; the timepiece was added to the design, and a drinking fountain was part of the wider scheme.

Who designed it and what does it look like?

The architect was Richard Davie Gould. The tower is built of limestone with dressings of Devon marble and sandstone, giving it a polished, multi-coloured look typical of High Victorian civic monuments. It rises as an octagonal shaft from an octagonal base, with a clock face on each side and a bell housed inside. Historic England lists the structure at Grade II, a status it has held since 1988, which recognises its architectural and historic interest.

Why is it linked to a particular time?

Local guides describe a ceremony in 1862 tied to 11 p.m., the hour associated with Prince Albert's death. Sources differ on whether this refers to the pendulum being set in motion or to the foundation stone being laid on the anniversary, so the exact course of the ceremony remains unclear. Either way, the tower was intended as a lasting reminder of the prince.

Where is it and how do you visit?

The tower stands in The Square, close to the River Taw and the main shopping streets of Barnstaple. It can be seen from the outside at any time and takes only a few minutes to admire, but it pairs well with other sights in the town centre, such as the nearby Pannier Market and the riverside. Its coordinates are roughly 51.0777 N, 4.0584 W.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Albert Clock the same as the one in Belfast?

No. Belfast has its own Albert Memorial Clock in Queen's Square, completed in 1869. The Barnstaple tower is a separate monument in North Devon, finished several years earlier.

When was the Albert Clock built?

It was completed in 1862 as a memorial to Prince Albert.

Is it a protected building?

Yes. It is Grade II listed, and has been since 1988.

Is there an entrance fee?

It is an outdoor public monument in a town square, so you can view it freely from the street.

Who designed it?

Richard Davie Gould, using limestone with Devon marble and sandstone details.