Verity Statue

About

The Verity Statue is a striking 20.25‑metre (66.4‑ft) sculpture that crowns the pier at the entrance to Ilfracombe Harbour. Cast in stainless steel, bronze, and fibreglass, the work was created by the contemporary artist Damien Hirst and unveiled on 16 October 2012 to a crowd of locals and visitors. Its imposing size made it the tallest statue in the United Kingdom at the time of its installation. The bronze figure depicts a pregnant woman surrounded by symbolic motifs: a sword, scales of justice, and a stack of law books. Half of the sculpture reveals the internal anatomy of the woman, with a clearly visible foetus, offering a dramatic visual comment on themes of truth, justice and maternal life. Hirst calls it a “modern allegory of truth and justice,” inviting viewers to contemplate the power and fragility of these concepts. A generous twenty‑year loan by the artist to the town of Ilfracombe has turned Verity into a landmark that attracts tourists, art enthusiasts and families alike. The sculpture’s visibility from the harbour and its bold narrative have sparked debates and support alike, contributing significantly to the town’s cultural profile and tourism economy. Visitors can approach the statue freely at any time, making it an accessible daily stop for travellers exploring the scenic coast of Devon. Because the monument is outdoor public art, no admission fee or reservation is required, allowing anyone to pause, reflect and enjoy the spectacle without barriers.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 30 minutes