The Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens is one of the most ornate monuments in Britain, Queen Victoria's extravagant Gothic Revival tribute to her husband Prince Albert, who died in 1861. Designed by George Gilbert Scott and unveiled in 1872, its gilded, canopied figure of the prince gleams against the green of the park.
Why see it
It is high Victorian confidence in stone and gold, a monument of astonishing detail that captures the spirit of the age. Facing it across the road stands the Royal Albert Hall, completing one of the grandest set-pieces in the city.
What to see
The memorial's base is wrapped in a frieze of 169 carved figures and topped with allegorical groups representing the continents and the arts. It rewards a slow circuit to take in the craftsmanship.
Visiting tips
The memorial is free to view at any time, standing in Kensington Gardens. South Kensington and High Street Kensington are the nearest stations, with the great museums close by.
