Queen Elizabeth’s statue ~ the oldest statue in London
. 
History: In Walter Besant’s “The History of London” the author claims that very few people know about the statue of Queen Elizabeth that can be found at St. Dunstan-in-the-west Church on Fleet Street. The statue is located above the entrance to the old parochial school. According to the church (www.stdunstaninthewest.org) and to popular belief, the statue was carved by William Kerwin in 1586 and originally stood on the west side of the Lud Gate (part of the Roman city wall) before it was demolished in 1760. It is believed to be the oldest outdoor statue in London and the only remaining statue made of Queen Elizabeth while she was alive.
Video: There is a wonderful vintage video of its re-unveiling in 1928 after it was restored. This can be viewed at the British Pathe film archive (Click here).
Located at: 186a Fleet Street, City of London, EC4A
Closest tube: Temple
2 comments on “Queen Elizabeth’s statue ~ the oldest statue in London”
Leave a Reply
Top Posts & Pages
I went along to find this statue when I was staying not too far away. I enjoy your blog it gives me interesting things to do and I learn more about history too.
So glad you have benefited from the blog and have been able to visit some of the places. ian