Abraham Lincoln: The Man (London)

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Visiting the Abraham Lincoln statues in the United Kingdom offers a remarkable opportunity to engage with transatlantic history and cultural diplomacy.

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Abraham Lincoln: The Man (London)
Statue of Abraham Lincoln in London commemorating Memorial Day
Black and white photograph of the Lincoln Statue in London taken on Memorial Day, featuring a 5x7 inch or smaller glass negative.

Abraham Lincoln Statues in London and Kingston upon Thames

The Abraham Lincoln statues in London and Kingston upon Thames offer different perspectives on the historical and diplomatic links between Britain and the United States. In Parliament Square, London, the bronze Abraham Lincoln: The Man represents shared democratic ideals and friendship between the two countries. In Kingston upon Thames, a historic royal borough, Lincoln’s statue sits among Anglo-Saxon heritage and a vibrant community.

History

London’s Abraham Lincoln: The Man

The statue is a full-size bronze replica of Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ celebrated 1887 Chicago monument, also known as Standing Lincoln. Installed in Parliament Square in 1920, it commemorated a century of peace between Britain and the United States following the War of 1812 and marked over a century of post-war friendship. Its unveiling was attended by British royalty and government officials as a gesture of goodwill.

A version proposed by George Barnard was vetoed by Lincoln’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln. The rejected Barnard statue was sent to Manchester instead.

Kingston upon Thames

Kingston upon Thames is known for its royal heritage. Its name, “Cyningestun,” means “the king’s estate,” and the town was the coronation site for several Anglo-Saxon kings, including Athelstan. The Coronation Stone, near All Saints Church, is believed to have been used in these ceremonies.

In 2025, the borough will celebrate the 1100th anniversary of King Athelstan’s coronation with a major cultural festival.

What to see

Parliament Square statue

The 12-foot bronze Lincoln is shown in a contemplative pose beside a chair, with documents in hand. His slightly stooped posture, right hand on his coat lapel and left hand holding a document convey both humility and resolve. The figure stands on a simple granite pedestal inscribed with Lincoln’s name and dates.

The statue is among Parliament Square’s monuments to figures including Churchill, Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi. Its setting reflects Lincoln’s international legacy and the historical relationship between the UK and the US.

Kingston’s Lincoln statue and historic sites

Kingston’s Lincoln statue is centrally located. Plaques provide context, and the statue is included in local guided and self-guided walking tours. It is occasionally part of heritage walks and commemorative events, particularly during international or historical celebrations.

Other local highlights include the Coronation Stone, All Saints Church, Kingston Museum and the Rose Theatre, which presents modern performances in a historic-inspired venue. Riverside walks and the Stanley Picker Gallery are also within walking distance.

Practical visiting information

Parliament Square, London

  • Address Parliament Square, Canning Green, Westminster, London SW1.
  • Hours Open 24/7, as the statue is outdoors in a public space.
  • Admission Free; no tickets required.
  • Accessibility The area is wheelchair-accessible, with paved paths, ramps and step-free routes.
  • Transport Westminster Underground Station, served by the Jubilee, District and Circle lines, is the closest stop. Several or numerous bus routes also serve the area.
  • Facilities Cafés and restrooms are nearby.

Many Westminster walking tours include the statue and explain its diplomatic significance.

Kingston upon Thames

  • Lincoln statue hours and admission Outdoors and open 24/7; free.
  • Access to the statue It is a 10–15 minute walk from Kingston station. Step-free access is available from nearby car parks. The statue is in a flat, open space, and the town is well-signposted.
  • Coronation Stone Free, outdoors and accessible from dawn to dusk.
  • All Saints Church Open daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; free entry, with donations welcome.
  • Kingston Museum General admission is free. Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Sunday, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM. Special exhibits may require tickets.
  • Rose Theatre Performances are ticketed and discounts are available; the theatre is accessible.
  • Transport The train from London Waterloo takes 25 minutes. There are multiple bus routes and ample public parking.
  • Accessibility Most sites and pavements are step-free and wheelchair-friendly. Public spaces are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
  • Amenities Public toilets, cafés, restaurants, shops and accommodation are centrally located. Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels to large chains.

Maps and guides are available at Kingston Museum. Images, maps and virtual tours are available through Kingston’s tourism website and official tourism sites.

Tips

  • In Parliament Square, visit early in the morning or late in the day for photos; early visits and weekends may have fewer crowds. The statue is illuminated at night.
  • Photography is welcome at both statues. In Parliament Square, respect the monument and other visitors, especially during public events. In Kingston, avoid climbing on the statue.
  • Be aware of public events or demonstrations in Parliament Square. The area is generally safe; use standard precautions.
  • Kingston is safe and lively, especially during the day and on market days. Market days add vibrancy.
  • Dress for the weather. Use public transport or park in designated areas.
  • Support local businesses and use public transport or other sustainable travel methods.
  • Kingston’s emergency number is 999. Visitor information is available from Kingston Museum and the Royal Borough website.
  • The language is English and the currency is GBP (£). Digital resources such as the Audiala app may also accompany a visit.

Nearby places

Around Parliament Square

Around Kingston upon Thames

The Coronation Stone, All Saints Church, Kingston Museum, the Rose Theatre, riverside walks and the Stanley Picker Gallery are highlights within walking distance.

Related articles: Kingston’s Historic Market Place and Exploring Hampton Court Palace.

FAQs

What are the London statue’s visiting hours?
It is accessible 24/7.

Is the London statue free to visit?
Yes. There is no entry fee and no ticket is required.

Is the Parliament Square statue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The square has step-free routes and ramps.

How do I get to the London statue?
Westminster Underground Station is the closest stop.

Are tours available in London?
Yes. Many Westminster walking tours include the statue.

Is Kingston’s Lincoln statue free to visit?
Yes. It is free and open 24/7.

Is Kingston’s statue accessible?
Yes. It is in a flat, open space with step-free access; public spaces are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.

Are tours available in Kingston?
Yes. Guided and self-guided options are available.

Are the Coronation Stone and All Saints Church free to visit?
Yes.

Is the Rose Theatre accessible?
Yes.

How do I get to Kingston from central London?
Take the train from Waterloo Station; the journey takes 25 minutes.