Statue of Alfred the Great
About
The Statue of Alfred the Great stands proudly in the heart of Winchester, a historic town in Hampshire, England. Designed by Royal Academician Hamo Thornycroft and completed in 1901, the bronze sculpture commemorates the 9th‑century king who unified England. Nestled on The Broadway, the statue is surrounded by the civic charm of high street shops and the nearby Winchester Guildhall, making it a convenient and memorable landmark for visitors. Visitors can admire the marble likeness of Alfred wearing royal regalia, holding a sword in his left hand and a shield in his right. The bronze figure is a Grade II listed monument, recognized for its artistic merit and cultural significance. It is a popular meeting point for locals and a favorite stop for tourists keen to explore Winchester’s historic streets. The statue is freely accessible to the public, and no admission fee is charged. It is open year‑round, with regular daylight access, although there are no dedicated opening hours. It is especially lovely to visit early in the morning or in late afternoon when the light gives the bronze a warm glow. A short walk from the statue leads to the ancient cathedral, the Roman walls of Winchester, and the beautiful cathedral cloister gardens, making it part of a larger walking tour of the city’s medieval heritage.
Highlights
- Statue of Alfred the Great
- Grade II Listed
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and the crowds are lighter
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Free Access
- Central Location
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 30 minutes