Earl Haig Memorial

Earl Haig Memorial is a bronze equestrian statue on Whitehall in the City of Westminster, London. It portrays Douglas Haig, 1st Earl Haig, who led the British armies on the Western Front during the First World War. The statue sits in the middle of the government avenue, a short walk from Downing Street.

Who is commemorated, and who made it?

Haig was Commander-in-Chief of the British forces in France from 1915 until the Armistice in 1918, and the plinth inscription says exactly that. The sculptor was Alfred Frank Hardiman; S. Rowland Pierce designed the base. Parliament commissioned the work in 1928, and Hardiman won a limited competition the following year.

Why was it controversial?

The project took eight years and drew sharp criticism. Commentators objected to the stylised, elongated horse, its anatomy and stance, as well as the rider's posture and uniform. It remains one of London's more debated equestrian monuments. The Duke of Gloucester unveiled it on 10 November 1937. Historic England lists it at Grade II*.

How do you find it and what will you see?

The statue stands on the carriageway of Whitehall opposite the Ministry of Defence building, near Horse Guards and the Cenotaph (about 51.5043 N, 0.1263 W). Westminster and Charing Cross stations are both a few minutes' walk away. Look at the stretched proportions of the horse and the stiff, formal bearing of the field marshal. It is one of several war memorials along Whitehall, so it fits easily into a walk past the Cenotaph and Horse Guards.

When should you go?

The monument is on an open street, so it is viewable at any hour and free of charge. Early mornings are quietest. Daylight gives the best photographs, while evenings bring street lighting. Around Remembrance Sunday in November, Whitehall hosts ceremonies and the area can be restricted.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? No. The statue stands in the street and can be seen free at any time.

Who sculpted it? Alfred Frank Hardiman, with a base by S. Rowland Pierce.

When was it unveiled? On 10 November 1937, eight years after Hardiman won the competition.

What else is nearby? The Cenotaph, Horse Guards, Downing Street and other war memorials along Whitehall.