Civil Service Rifles War Memorial

Civil Service Rifles War Memorial London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Civil Service Rifles War Memorial, located on the Riverside Terrace of Somerset House along London’s Thames Embankment, stands as a moving tribute to the 1,240 members of the Prince of Wales’s Own Civil Service Rifles who gave their lives during the First World War. Designed by the celebrated architect Sir Edwin Lutyens—also known for the iconic Cenotaph in Whitehall—this monument combines dignified classical design with deep symbolism. Its presence at Somerset House, a historic center of British government administration, underscores the enduring connection between the civil service and national military service.

This comprehensive guide offers essential details for visitors, including up-to-date opening hours, accessibility information, directions, and helpful tips. It also explores the memorial’s history, architectural features, relocation, and cultural importance. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or a visitor seeking to explore London’s heritage, this article will help you appreciate the Civil Service Rifles War Memorial in depth. For further information, consult resources from Somerset House, Historic England, and the Imperial War Museums.

Introduction
Historical Background
Architectural Design and Symbolism
Construction and Unveiling
Relocation and Preservation
Visiting Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Legacy and Cultural Significance
Plan Your Visit
References and Further Reading

Historical Background

The Civil Service Rifles, officially the 15th (County of London) Battalion, The London Regiment (Civil Service Rifles), were established in the late 19th century, drawing their ranks primarily from civil servants across British government departments (The Long, Long Trail). During the First World War, the battalion served in major battles on the Western Front, including Loos, the Somme, Messines, Passchendaele, Cambrai, and the Hundred Days Offensive.

Following the war, the regiment sought to honor its fallen members with a memorial at Somerset House, the battalion’s spiritual and administrative home.

Architectural Design and Symbolism

The memorial is a distinguished example of Sir Edwin Lutyens’ restrained and classical approach to war memorial design (Wikipedia). Constructed from Portland stone, it features a rectangular column on a stepped platform, crowned by a classical urn symbolizing the immortality of the soul. Painted and varnished metal flags—the regimental color and the Union Flag—adorn the east and west faces of the column, echoing Lutyens’ original vision for the Cenotaph.

The base of the memorial is inscribed with the regiment’s key battle honors and the principal dedication:

“To the glorious memory of the 1,240 members of the Civil Service Rifles who gave their lives for King and Country in the Great War 1914–1919.”

The names of the fallen are recorded within a scroll housed inside the memorial, making their sacrifice tangible and personal (Lutyens Memorials Blog).

Construction and Unveiling

Constructed at the Nine Elms Stone Masonry Works in Battersea, the memorial was funded by public donations, regimental contributions, and proceeds from the sale of a regimental history. The Office of Works granted permission in July 1923, and the memorial was unveiled in the Somerset House quadrangle on 27 January 1924 by Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), the regiment’s honorary colonel. The dedication was led by the Reverend E. H. Beattie, chaplain to the battalion in France and Flanders, with dignitaries and families in attendance (Historic England).

Relocation and Preservation

Originally located in the Somerset House quadrangle, the memorial was the focal point for annual commemorations until the late 1980s. With the transformation of Somerset House into a public cultural destination, the memorial was carefully relocated in 2002 to the Riverside Terrace, offering greater public visibility and access (Civil Service Blog). It was rededicated by the Bishop of London, Richard Chartres, and has since been protected as a Grade II* listed structure—an honor reserved for buildings of particular historical and architectural significance.

Visiting Information

Location and Getting There

Address:
Somerset House
Strand
London WC2R 1LA
United Kingdom

The memorial is on the Riverside Terrace, facing the Thames and accessible via the main entrance or directly from the Embankment.

Underground: Temple (District and Circle lines) and Covent Garden (Piccadilly line) are both within a 5–10 minute walk.
Bus: Multiple routes serve the Strand and Aldwych.
Rail: Charing Cross and Waterloo stations are within walking distance.
Cycling: Cycle racks and Santander Cycles docking stations are nearby.

Visiting Hours and Accessibility

Opening Times: Daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended during special events; check the Somerset House website for updates).
Entry: Free; no ticket required.
Accessibility: The terrace and memorial are wheelchair accessible, with level access and ramps. Assistance is available upon request (Somerset House Accessibility).

Guided Tours and Events

Somerset House occasionally offers guided tours that include the memorial. For schedules, visit the official website.
Remembrance events are held annually, especially around Armistice Day (November 11).

Nearby Attractions

Somerset House: Historic architecture, art exhibitions, and cultural events.
Victoria Embankment Gardens: Scenic riverside park.
Courtauld Gallery: Renowned art collection within Somerset House.
The Royal Courts of Justice: A short walk away.
The Temple Church, Trafalgar Square, and the National Gallery are also nearby.

Photography Tips

The Riverside Terrace offers beautiful views of the Thames and the London skyline.
Early morning and late afternoon—the ‘golden hours’—provide the best lighting for photography.
Be respectful of others, especially during remembrance ceremonies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Civil Service Rifles War Memorial?
A: The memorial is accessible daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM alongside Somerset House’s public opening hours.

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No, visiting the memorial is free and does not require a ticket.

Q: Is the memorial wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the Riverside Terrace is fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours of Somerset House that include the memorial are available; check the Somerset House website for current schedules.

Q: Can I leave flowers or tokens at the memorial?
A: Yes, visitors are welcome to leave poppies or other respectful tokens, especially around Remembrance Day.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

The Civil Service Rifles War Memorial is a lasting symbol of the sacrifices made by civil servants in wartime. Its location at Somerset House—a former center of government—reflects the link between public service and national defense. The memorial continues to serve as a site of reflection and remembrance for both the civil service community and the wider public, especially during annual commemorations. It also stands as an important example of Lutyens’ architectural legacy and Britain’s broader culture of remembrance (Historic England, Civil Service Blog).

Plan Your Visit

Allocate at least 30 minutes to appreciate the memorial and its riverside setting. Combine your visit with a tour of Somerset House or nearby historical sites for a richer experience. For up-to-date information on guided tours, commemorative events, and opening times, consult the Somerset House official website.

To enhance your visit, the Audiala app offers audio guides and further historical insights about London’s war memorials and heritage sites (Audiala app).

References and Further Reading

Image credits: Photos of the Civil Service Rifles War Memorial courtesy of Somerset House. Alt text: “Civil Service Rifles War Memorial featuring a stone column topped with an urn and painted metal flags, set against the backdrop of the Thames Embankment in London.”

For the latest updates and more guides to London’s historical sites, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Your visit to the Civil Service Rifles War Memorial not only honors the past but connects you to the living heritage of London.