A new national memorial honoring Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, will be erected in St. James's Park, a location steeped in historical and constitutional significance. The British government announced on Saturday that the memorial will serve as a lasting tribute to the late queen's remarkable 70-year reign and her enduring legacy of service.
The memorial, expected to take the form of a statue or sculpture, will be situated within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, the residence of her son, King Charles III. This strategic location places the memorial near The Mall, a ceremonial route that has been the backdrop for numerous state events. It will also be close to existing statues of the queen's parents, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, further cementing the area's royal heritage.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the significance of the chosen location, noting that it will offer a place for the public to reflect on the queen's contributions to the nation and the Commonwealth. "The national memorial will be located in St. James's Park, right in the heart of the capital, providing everyone with a place to honor the late queen and connect with the shared history we cherish," Starmer said in a statement.
The memorial is part of a broader initiative to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II, with additional projects planned in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. These efforts reflect the queen's wide-reaching influence and the deep affection in which she was held across the United Kingdom and beyond.
The final design for the memorial is expected to be revealed by 2026, coinciding with the centenary of Queen Elizabeth II's birth. The monument will be crafted to match the scale and ambition of her impact on national and global affairs. In addition to the physical memorial, there may be other forms of commemoration, such as facilities or services that benefit the community, reminiscent of how King George V was honored with the creation of playing fields and parks across the country.
The selection of St. James's Park, a location rich in royal connections, underscores the memorial's importance. The park is home to a section near Marlborough Gate, leading to The Mall, and the small blue bridge across the pond, which are among the proposed locations for the memorial. This area is already populated with monuments that celebrate Britain's royal history, including the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace.
The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, chaired by Lord Janvrin, who served as the queen's private secretary, is responsible for the planning and execution of the memorial. The committee will present its recommendations to King Charles III and the prime minister, ensuring that the memorial aligns with the values and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II.
In accordance with strict guidelines issued by the Cabinet Office, public commemorations of the late queen are tightly regulated. The use of her name for buildings, parks, or businesses requires official permission, which is granted sparingly. This policy ensures that any public memorials maintain the dignity and respect befitting the memory of Queen Elizabeth II.
This weekend marks the second anniversary of the queen's passing and the beginning of King Charles III's reign. The day is expected to be one of private reflection rather than public ceremony, with the king likely spending the time in Scotland, where he has spent much of the summer.
