Harrogate War Memorial

Harrogate War Memorial in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, is a tall stone obelisk on Prospect Square, right in the middle of the spa town. Locals often call it the Harrogate Cenotaph, although strictly speaking it is a war memorial rather than a cenotaph. It honours those killed in both world wars and is one of the town's best-known landmarks.

Who designed it and when was it unveiled?

The architect was Ernest Prestwich; the plaque on site credits the firm Prestwich & Sons. The sculpture is by Gilbert Ledward. The foundation stone was laid in June 1922 by Edward Wood, then an MP and later Lord Halifax. The memorial was unveiled on 1 September 1923 by the Earl of Harewood before a crowd of about 10,000, making it one of the last major outdoor memorials in England to open after the First World War.

What can you see there?

The core of the monument is an obelisk on a plinth, both in Portland stone, with wreaths carved near the top on each side. Ledward's two bas-relief panels are titled "1914, the Call to Arms" and "1918, Britannia with the Flag of Victory".

Two bronze plaques carry 1,163 names of Harrogate people who died in the two wars, including several women. A separate plaque for Victoria Cross recipients sits at the base and is catalogued on War Memorials Online. For the centenary, volunteers traced the life stories behind every name; more than 300 of the men have no known grave.

How do you get there?

Prospect Square is in central Harrogate, a short walk from the main shopping streets and about 210 metres from Victoria Gardens. The railway station is also within easy walking distance. The memorial stands on an open square, so it can be visited free at any hour.

When is the best time to visit?

Remembrance Sunday, the second Sunday of November, is the most moving day: official ceremonies are held at the obelisk and poppy wreaths are laid. At other times 15 to 20 minutes is enough, ideally in daylight so the reliefs show clearly. It combines easily with a stroll through the nearby gardens.

Frequently asked questions

Is Harrogate War Memorial a cenotaph?

No. Despite the local nickname "Harrogate Cenotaph", it is a war memorial with an obelisk and name plaques.

Who designed it?

Ernest Prestwich designed it, and Gilbert Ledward made the relief sculpture. It was unveiled in 1923.

How many names are on it?

There are 1,163 names from both world wars on two bronze plaques.

Does it cost anything to visit?

No. It stands on a public square and is accessible around the clock.