Standing at the edge of St James’s Park, beside Marlborough Gate and overlooking The Mall, is one of London’s most important modern royal memorials. Often mistaken for a statue of Queen Elizabeth II, this monument in fact commemorates King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother; two figures who played a defining role in Britain’s 20th‑century monarchy.

This memorial forms a key storytelling stop on our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour, helping bring royal ceremony, wartime history, and living memory together.

Where is the memorial located?

The memorial stands at Marlborough Gate on the eastern boundary of St James’s Park, just moments from Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and the ceremonial processional route of The Mall.

Its location is deliberate. This stretch of London has witnessed coronation processions, jubilees, state visits, and royal celebrations for generations, making it one of the most symbolically charged locations in royal London.

Who does the memorial depict?

King George VI (upper figure)

The upper statue depicts King George VI, who reigned from 1936 to 1952. He ascended the throne following the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII, and became one of Britain’s most respected monarchs during the Second World War.

He is shown in formal ceremonial dress, wearing royal orders and decorations. The sculptor has chosen a restrained, dignified pose, reflecting George VI’s character; a reluctant king who nevertheless embodied duty, resolve, and quiet leadership during Britain’s darkest years.

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (lower figure)

The lower statue depicts Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (1900–2002), wife of King George VI and mother of Queen Elizabeth II.

Her life dates are carved clearly into the plinth, confirming her identity. She is portrayed in robes of state, wearing a crown, representing her enduring public role and extraordinary popularity. During the Second World War, she became a symbol of national morale, famously refusing to leave London during the Blitz.

Her position beneath the King is intentional, reflecting both her role as Queen Consort and her immense influence behind the scenes.

Symbolism and meaning of the monument

The vertical arrangement of the figures tells a powerful story. Together, King George VI and the Queen Mother represent stability during crisis, unity during war, and the foundations of the modern monarchy.

While Queen Elizabeth II is not depicted here, this memorial explains much about the world she inherited; a monarchy reshaped by conflict, public service, and personal sacrifice.

This layered symbolism makes the monument particularly meaningful when viewed in context with nearby palaces and ceremonial spaces.

Why this memorial matters on the Crown and Changing of the Guard tour

Our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour is about understanding the people behind the pageantry. At this stop, our guides explore:

• The abdication crisis of 1936
• Britain’s wartime monarchy
• The Queen Mother’s role as a national figure
• How royal symbolism reinforces continuity and public confidence

Seen alongside Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, Horse Guards Parade, and the Changing of the Guard itself, the memorial provides essential historical context.

When was the memorial unveiled?

The memorial to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother was unveiled in 1955, just three years after the King’s death. It remains one of the most significant royal monuments of the post‑war period.

A quiet but powerful royal landmark

Despite its prominent position, this memorial is often overlooked by visitors heading straight for Buckingham Palace. Framed by trees and parkland, it offers a calmer, more reflective moment in royal London; ideal for understanding the human stories behind royal tradition.

See this memorial on our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother memorial is featured on our Crown and Changing of the Guard Walking Tour. Led by expert local guides, the tour includes:

• Prime viewing locations for the Changing of the Guard
• Royal palaces and ceremonial routes
• Hidden stories behind Britain’s most famous traditions
• Insight into the modern monarchy and its symbols



It’s the ideal way to experience royal London beyond the surface.