Statue of Edmund Burke

The Statue of Edmund Burke is a bronze figure standing in Broad Quay that portrays a man in 18th-century dress. The figure holds a three-cornered hat and leans forward in a stepping motion, suggesting a posture of attentive engagement.

The sculpture was created in 1894 by artist James Havard Thomas and honors a parliamentary representative who served Bristol in the 1770s. It later received protection as a heritage monument, reflecting the enduring importance of this figure in British history.

The statue reflects Burke's role as an advocate for reform and tolerance, values that were controversial in his era. Visitors can see in his posture and gesture the portrayal of a thoughtful political thinker of his time.

The monument is located in central Bristol at Broad Quay, a public space with good accessibility for visitors of all mobility levels. The site is easy to reach on foot and sits near other attractions in the harbor quarter.

An identical copy of this sculpture stands in Washington D.C., commissioned in 1922 as a sign of British-American friendship after World War I. This connection between the two cities remains unknown to many visitors, even though it reflects international appreciation for this political legacy.

Location: City of Bristol

Creator: James Havard Thomas

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

GPS coordinates: 51.45368,-2.59738

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06