Landmark · St. James's
Florence Nightingale Statue
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The Florence Nightingale Statue stands in Waterloo Place, at the southern end of St James's, London. This bronze figure depicts the 'Lady with the Lamp' in her characteristic pose, holding a lamp and gazing thoughtfully. The statue was sculpted by Arthur George Walker and unveiled in 1915. It is set on a granite plinth with inscriptions highlighting her work in nursing and public health. Visitors will find the statue in a tranquil garden area, close to other memorials including the Guards' Crimean War Memorial. The surrounding architecture of Carlton House Terrace and the nearby clubs adds to the dignified atmosphere. It's a short walk from Piccadilly Circus or Trafalgar Square, making it an easy stop on a London walking tour. The statue is often photographed by those interested in nursing history or Victorian-era heroines.
Don't miss
- See the detailed bronze figure of Nightingale holding her iconic lamp
- Read the inscriptions on the granite plinth summarizing her achievements
- View the nearby Guards' Crimean War Memorial with its soldier statues
- Appreciate the setting in the formal garden of Waterloo Place
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Florence Nightingale Statue
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Florence Nightingale Statue with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inLondon: British Museum Guided Tour and Priority Entry4.2★ · 197 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$13 per personSee dates →
Best full dayStonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London4.6★ · 20,121 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$108 per personSee dates →
Top ratedChanging of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience5★ · 637 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$40 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- The statue is outdoors and accessible 24/7, but best visited in daylight.
- It's located in the middle of Waterloo Place, not inside a building.
- Photography is allowed; the statue is well-framed against the backdrop of Carlton House Terrace.
- Combine with a walk through St James's Park or a visit to nearby attractions like the National Gallery.
A bit of history
Florence Nightingale (1820–1910) gained fame for her nursing work during the Crimean War. This statue was erected by public subscription and unveiled in 1915, five years after her death. It stands near the site of her former home at 10 South Street, Mayfair.
Common questions
Is the statue free to visit?
Yes, it is a public monument and free to view at any time.
How do I get to the statue by public transport?
The nearest Tube stations are Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross, both about a 5-minute walk away.
Can I see the statue at night?
Yes, it is lit by streetlights, but details are best seen during daylight.
Are there other Nightingale-related sites nearby?
The Florence Nightingale Museum at St Thomas' Hospital is about a 20-minute walk across the river.
Is the statue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the surrounding area is flat and paved.
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