Memorial to Queen Victoria

The Memorial to Queen Victoria in Leeds stands on Woodhouse Moor, a large public park northwest of the city centre. It was created by sculptor George Frampton working with architect Leonard Stokes, and it is a Grade II* listed monument, the second-highest level of protection in England.

What will you see?

Victoria is shown enthroned in her coronation robes. The figure and the frieze are cast in bronze, while the base is Portland stone. Niches on the sides of the plinth hold seated figures of Peace on the left and Industry on the right. An inscription on the back records that the people of Leeds paid for the monument through public subscription. Walk all the way around it, since the sculptural detail runs along every side of the plinth.

What is its history?

The listing dates the work to 1903, and the monument was unveiled on 27 November 1905. It first stood in Victoria Square in front of Leeds Town Hall. In 1937 it was moved to Woodhouse Moor after the space outside the Town Hall was reorganised. Despite sitting outside the centre today, it is often counted among the finest monuments in the city.

How do you get there?

The memorial is in Woodhouse Moor park in the Hyde Park and Woodhouse area, at roughly 53.811 N, 1.558 W. From the city centre you can walk or take a local bus towards the university. The park borders the University of Leeds campus, so services on this route are frequent.

When should you visit, and what does it cost?

The monument stands in an open park, so there is no ticket and no opening time. Choose a day with good light, when the bronze contrasts well with the pale stone. Looking at the memorial takes 10 to 15 minutes, and a stroll around Woodhouse Moor makes it about an hour. The ground is flat with paved paths.

What else is nearby?

Woodhouse Moor holds other statues relocated from central Leeds, including one of Robert Peel, which is also listed. The park is a popular spot for walks, jogging and meeting friends, so it pairs well with a break between city sights.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No. The memorial is in a public park and can be visited free at any time.

Who made the memorial? Sculptor George Frampton, with architect Leonard Stokes.

Why is it on Woodhouse Moor and not by the Town Hall? It was unveiled outside the Town Hall in 1905 and moved to the park in 1937 when the area around the Town Hall was redeveloped.

How long should I plan for? About 10 to 15 minutes at the monument, or an hour with a short walk through the park.