Statue of Isambard Kingdom Brunel

The Statue of Isambard Kingdom Brunel depicts the engineer in Victorian dress, holding dividers and standing on a Portland stone base with flanking screens on either side. The bronze figure sits on Victoria Embankment as part of a structured composition that includes architectural elements framing the monument.

The Institute of Civil Engineers commissioned this sculpture in 1860, though debates about its location kept it in storage until it was finally installed in 1877. The delay reflected the difficulty in finding the right place for this important work.

The statue occupies a place on the Thames that connects to Brunel's work and catches the eye of locals and visitors passing through. It serves as a visible reminder of engineering achievement in British culture and draws people interested in Victorian innovation.

The location is easily reached by walking along Victoria Embankment, situated between Waterloo Bridge and Temple Underground station. Since it stands outdoors, visitors can pass by anytime to view it from different angles, and the benches nearby offer places to stop and look.

The pedestal was designed by architect Richard Norman Shaw with benches integrated into the structure, allowing visitors to rest while observing the work. This thoughtful design feature transforms it into a place where people can linger rather than simply pass by.

Location: City of Westminster

Inception: 1877

Architects: Richard Norman Shaw

Creator: Carlo Marochetti

GPS coordinates: 51.51079,-0.11524

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:42