Readymoney Drinking Fountain

Readymoney Drinking Fountain London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled within the verdant expanse of Regent’s Park, the Readymoney Drinking Fountain stands as a remarkable testament to Victorian-era philanthropy, multicultural heritage, and architectural grandeur. Gifted in 1869 by Sir Cowasjee Jehangir Readymoney—a distinguished Parsi philanthropist from Bombay (now Mumbai)—the fountain is an enduring symbol of gratitude, cross-cultural generosity, and the Victorian commitment to public health and urban beautification. Crafted from Sicilian marble and red Aberdeen granite in Victorian Gothic style, the monument is not only a work of art but also reflects the 19th-century emphasis on welfare for both people and animals (Britain Express; The Times; London Remembers). Prominently positioned on the Broad Walk, the fountain is freely accessible during park hours, drawing visitors to its historical and architectural appeal and its proximity to attractions such as Queen Mary’s Gardens and the London Zoo.

This detailed guide explores the Readymoney Drinking Fountain’s history, cultural symbolism, visitor information, and nearby highlights—equipping you with everything you need for an enriching visit (Royal Parks; The Conversation).

Historical Background
Visiting the Readymoney Drinking Fountain
Nearby Attractions
Photography and Media
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Call to Action
References

Historical Background

Origins and Philanthropic Motivation

The Readymoney Drinking Fountain was commissioned and funded by Sir Cowasjee Jehangir Readymoney in 1869. As a prominent Parsi businessman and philanthropist from Bombay, Readymoney donated the fountain as an expression of gratitude for the protection and opportunities afforded to the Parsi community under British rule. His gift not only honored Queen Victoria’s reign but also demonstrated the interconnectedness of the British Empire and the significant contributions of minority communities (London Remembers; Royal Parks).

Construction and Materials

Completed in 1869, the fountain was constructed using ten tonnes of Sicilian marble and four tonnes of red Aberdeen granite (The Afternoon Tea Society). Its Victorian Gothic design showcases ornate carvings, pointed arches, and intricate reliefs. Four prominent busts—believed to be Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, Sir Cowasjee Jehangir himself, and a clock face—adorn the pediments, emphasizing the monument’s imperial and civic significance (London Remembers).

Symbolism and Legacy

The fountain stands as a symbol of cross-cultural philanthropy and the Victorian values of public health, civic pride, and urban improvement. Its drinking troughs for animals highlight the era’s holistic approach to welfare, while the inscriptions and biblical references reflect the moral motivations underpinning Victorian public works (The Conversation).

Notable Events and Restoration

Unveiled by Princess Mary, Duchess of Teck, the fountain’s inauguration marked it as a site of both royal and public importance. Over the years, it has undergone several restorations, including a significant project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund in 1999–2000, ensuring its preservation for future generations (London Remembers).

Architectural and Artistic Details

Architecturally, the Readymoney Drinking Fountain is a prime example of Victorian Gothic Revival. The monument stands over 16 feet high and 9 feet wide, featuring an octagonal plan for accessibility from multiple sides. Detailed stonework, floral motifs, and inscriptions in English and other languages honor both the benefactor and the broader values of the era. The use of durable materials and the inclusion of drinking troughs for dogs and horses reflect both elegance and functionality (Britain Express; Royal Parks).

Modern Significance

Today, the fountain is celebrated as one of London’s largest and most intricate drinking fountains, and it remains central to conversations about sustainable public water access and the city’s multicultural legacy. Its continued maintenance and inclusion in walking tours underscore its enduring relevance (The Times; The Conversation).

Visiting the Readymoney Drinking Fountain

Location and Directions

Address: The Broad Walk, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4HJ
GPS Coordinates: 51.5306° N, 0.1536° W
Proximity: Closest to the Chester Road entrance; near Queen Mary’s Gardens, the Open Air Theatre, and London Zoo (Dayouthub).

Getting There:

Underground: Regent’s Park (Bakerloo Line), Baker Street (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Circle, Hammersmith & City), and Great Portland Street (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan).
Buses: Routes 18, 27, 30, 205, and 453 serve nearby stops.
National Rail: Euston and Marylebone stations are both within a 20-minute walk.

The Broad Walk is a wide, level path suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling, with step-free access from main entrances.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Park Opening Hours: 5:00 AM until midnight (closing times may vary by season).
Admission: Free; no ticket required.

Accessibility

Step-free and wheelchair accessible paths from Chester Road and other main entrances.
Paved, wide paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Accessible toilets and benches are found near the Broad Walk Café and Queen Mary’s Gardens (Royal Parks Accessibility).
Blue Badge parking spaces available near major entrances.

Note: The fountain is currently ornamental and no longer provides drinking water; refill stations are available elsewhere in the park.

Visitor Tips

Arrive early or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Bring a camera—Gothic details and natural surroundings offer excellent photo opportunities.
Dress for the weather; the fountain is outdoors with limited shelter.
Check the Royal Parks events calendar for activities that may impact your visit.
Consider joining a guided walking tour for deeper historical insights.

Nearby Attractions

Queen Mary’s Gardens: Renowned for extensive rose gardens.
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre: Popular for seasonal performances.
London Zoo: A family-friendly destination north of the fountain.
Boating Lake & Sports Facilities: Located in the western and southern areas of the park.

Photography and Media

The Readymoney Drinking Fountain’s ornate Gothic style and serene backdrop make it a favorite among photographers. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light. High-quality images and virtual tours can be found on the Royal Parks website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there tickets required to visit the Readymoney Drinking Fountain?
A: No, the fountain is freely accessible within Regent’s Park during opening hours.

Q: Is the fountain operational for drinking water?
A: No, it is currently ornamental. Drinking water refill stations are available elsewhere in the park.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, Regent’s Park and the fountain area are fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Regent’s Park walking tours often include the fountain. Check with the Royal Parks or local tour providers for schedules.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays offer the most tranquil experience.

Summary and Call to Action

The Readymoney Drinking Fountain is a unique blend of Victorian philanthropy, imperial history, and architectural artistry—offering visitors a window into London’s multicultural past and public health innovation. Located at the heart of Regent’s Park and surrounded by other major attractions, this monument is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s rich heritage.

Plan your visit today to experience the Readymoney Drinking Fountain and discover the surrounding treasures of Regent’s Park. For official guides, downloadable audio tours, and ongoing updates, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Make your next London outing a journey through history and culture!