Statue of Horatio Nelson

The Statue of Horatio Nelson in Birmingham is a bronze figure of the admiral standing at the Bull Ring in the heart of the city. It is regarded as the first monument to Nelson in Britain and the first publicly funded statue in Birmingham. Do not confuse it with Nelson's Column on Trafalgar Square in London.

What is this statue?

The sculptor was Richard Westmacott, one of the leading British sculptors of the early 19th century. The work is dated 1809 and was paid for by public subscription; sources give the cost anywhere from about £2,400 to over £3,000. Nelson, killed at Trafalgar in 1805, is shown in uniform with the empty sleeve of his lost arm. Westmacott later produced a similar statue for Bridgetown in Barbados (1813).

Historic England's entry describes the piece as unusual in design, small in scale and of excellent quality. It has been Grade II* listed since 25 April 1952.

Where exactly is it?

The statue stands on a raised terrace between the Bullring shopping centre and the Selfridges building, facing St Martin's Church. It originally stood near the old Cross and later outside the Market Hall. During the 1960s Bull Ring redevelopment it was moved, and its carved plinth, cannon and lamps were lost, leaving the figure on a plain new pedestal. After the redevelopment of 2000-2005 it returned to a spot close to its first site.

How do I get there?

The Bull Ring is in central Birmingham, a short walk from New Street and Moor Street stations, usually 5 to 10 minutes on foot. The statue is in a public space, open around the clock, with no ticket needed.

How long should I allow, and when should I visit?

Ten to fifteen minutes is enough to see the statue. Pair it with St Martin's Church, the Bull Ring markets and the surrounding shopping streets. Daylight is best for photographs, though the area stays lively in the evening thanks to its shops and restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same monument as Nelson's Column in London? No. The London column stands on Trafalgar Square and dates from the 1840s. Birmingham's is a much older, small bronze statue.

Is there an entry fee? No. It stands in the open and can be seen free at any time.

Who made the statue? Sir Richard Westmacott, who also made works for sites in London and Barbados.

Is it still in its original position? Almost. It was moved in the 20th century and, after the latest redevelopment, returned to the neighbourhood of its original site beside St Martin's Church.