General Charles De Gaulle

London, GB

General Charles De Gaulle
General Charles De Gaulle
Location
London, GB
Category
heritage historic sites
Coordinates
51.5056269, -0.1337431
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The statue of General Charles de Gaulle, located in Carlton Gardens in the City of Westminster, London, serves as a significant memorial to the leader of the Free French Forces during the Second World War. Unveiled in 1993 by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, the bronze monument commemorates the time De Gaulle spent in London while leading the resistance against Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1944. The site is a poignant destination for those interested in 20th-century history and the enduring alliance between the United Kingdom and France. Visitors to this area, which is situated just steps from The Mall and St. James's Park, will find it an excellent addition to their list of places to visit when exploring the political heart of the British capital. The statue stands near the former headquarters of the Free French, adding a layer of historical authenticity to the experience. For those seeking meaningful trip ideas in London, this site offers a quiet moment of reflection on the wartime collaboration between the two nations. The surrounding area is rich in historical markers, making it a highly accessible spot for history enthusiasts navigating the West End. Whether you are a student of military history or simply exploring the city's commemorative landscape, the statue provides a clear, verifiable link to the events that shaped modern Europe.

General information

The statue of General Charles de Gaulle, located in Carlton Gardens in the City of Westminster, London, serves as a significant memorial to the leader of the Free French Forces during the Second World War. Unveiled in 1993 by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, the bronze monument commemorates the time De Gaulle spent in London while leading the resistance against Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1944. The site is a poignant destination for those interested in 20th-century history and the enduring alliance between the United Kingdom and France. Visitors to this area, which is situated just steps from The Mall and St. James's Park, will find it an excellent addition to their list of places to visit when exploring the political heart of the British capital. The statue stands near the former headquarters of the Free French, adding a layer of historical authenticity to the experience. For those seeking meaningful trip ideas in London, this site offers a quiet moment of reflection on the wartime collaboration between the two nations. The surrounding area is rich in historical markers, making it a highly accessible spot for history enthusiasts navigating the West End. Whether you are a student of military history or simply exploring the city's commemorative landscape, the statue provides a clear, verifiable link to the events that shaped modern Europe.

Did you know

  • The statue was sculpted by Angela Conner and stands at a height of 3.6 meters.
  • The location in Carlton Gardens was chosen because it was the site of the Free French headquarters during the war.
  • The unveiling ceremony in 1993 was attended by both the Queen Mother and the French President, François Mitterrand.

History

Following the fall of France in 1940, General Charles de Gaulle fled to London. From 4 Carlton Gardens, he issued his famous appeal to the French people on June 18, 1940, urging them to continue the fight against the Axis powers. He remained in the city for the duration of the war, coordinating the Free French Forces from this base. The statue was commissioned to honor this period, serving as a permanent record of the strategic partnership between De Gaulle and the British government during the darkest years of the conflict.

Cultural significance

The monument represents the deep-rooted diplomatic and military ties between Britain and France. It serves not only as a tribute to De Gaulle as a wartime leader but also as a symbol of the 'Special Relationship' that developed between the two nations during the struggle for European liberation. It remains a focal point for commemorative events, particularly on June 18th, marking the anniversary of the General's historic radio broadcast from London.

Geography and landscape

The statue is situated in Carlton Gardens, a prestigious and quiet residential square located in the St. James's area of London. It is positioned on a paved plinth, surrounded by mature trees and elegant 19th-century architecture. The site is geographically significant for its proximity to The Mall—the ceremonial road leading to Buckingham Palace—and its placement within the historic administrative district of Westminster. The setting provides a serene, contemplative atmosphere, distinct from the busier thoroughfares nearby.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch

Nearby attractions