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About this place
The Royal Air Force Memorial stands on the Victoria Embankment in the City of Westminster, central London. It honours airmen lost in the First World War and, by extension, in later conflicts, and it is regarded as the official memorial of the RAF and its associated services.
What will you see?
A slender Portland stone pylon carries a gilded bronze eagle with outstretched wings. The bird perches on a darker, patinated bronze globe, circled by a gilded band marked with the signs of the zodiac. It faces the Thames and, beyond it, the Channel and France, where so many First World War airmen served.
The memorial was designed by architect Reginald Blomfield; the eagle was sculpted by William Reid Dick. It was unveiled in July 1923 with the Prince of Wales in attendance.
Why does it matter?
The structure was listed at Grade II in 1958. In 2018, the RAF's centenary year, Historic England raised it to Grade II*, citing its historic significance as a witness to 20th-century air force sacrifice and its artistic merit, the bronze eagle included. It remains a focus for anniversary and remembrance ceremonies.
How do you get there?
The memorial is at Whitehall Stairs, between Westminster Bridge and Charing Cross Bridge, just east of the Ministry of Defence building. From Embankment or Westminster tube stations it is a few minutes' walk along the river. Cleopatra's Needle is nearby, so the two fit neatly into one stroll.
When should you visit?
It sits on an open riverside promenade and is accessible free at any hour. Daylight is best for photographs, when the gilding catches the sun. Around Remembrance Sunday in November, or the RAF's anniversary, you may catch ceremonies here.
What else is nearby?
Several other military memorials line the Embankment, and Whitehall, the Houses of Parliament with Big Ben, and Victoria Embankment Gardens are all a short walk away. Don't confuse this site with the RAF Bomber Command Memorial in Green Park or the RAF Museum; both are separate places.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entry fee? No. The memorial is in a public space and can be viewed free at any time.
Who designed it? Reginald Blomfield was the architect and William Reid Dick sculpted the gilded eagle.
When was it unveiled? In July 1923, with the Prince of Wales present.
How long does a visit take? Ten to fifteen minutes for the memorial itself. Pair it with a walk along the river and Whitehall.
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