As the second anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death approaches, London is preparing to honor its longest-reigning monarch with a new, official memorial. The location chosen for this tribute will be St James’s Park, one of the city’s most historic and scenic sites, located just a short walk from Buckingham Palace.
A lasting tribute
The memorial, which is expected to take the form of a statue or sculpture, will be located in St James’s Park, specifically between Marlborough Gate and the small blue bridge that crosses the park’s central pond. The site was chosen due to its proximity to Buckingham Palace, allowing visitors to easily incorporate the memorial into their tour of the area.
The exact design of the memorial is still under consideration, but the final concept is expected to be unveiled by 2026, which marks the centenary of Queen Elizabeth’s birth. The selection of St James’s Park is particularly poignant given its ties to the British monarchy. The park already contains a number of important memorials, including those to Queen Victoria, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. This rich historical background will provide a suitable setting for the new tribute.
Memorial plans
The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, led by Lord Jenvrin, the late Queen’s private secretary, has been tasked with overseeing the project. Their recommendations will be submitted to King Charles III and the Prime Minister. The memorial’s design will be part of a wider memorial plan, which could include additional facilities or community services. Such an initiative could follow in the tradition of previous royal memorials, such as the King George V playgrounds established across the UK in memory of the late monarch.
Significance of location
St James’s Park was chosen not only for its beauty but also for its royal significance. It is a location steeped in British history, with a number of other royal memorials located nearby. This ensures the new tribute will be in good company, surrounded by markers to other notable figures in British history.
The park’s location between Buckingham Palace and the Mall, a street often used for royal processions and ceremonies, makes it an ideal location for a memorial dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II. The park’s tranquil environment, combined with its historical significance, will provide a place for contemplation and remembrance.
Strict controls on commemoration
The memorial will be subject to strict controls, reflecting the Cabinet Office’s approach to public commemorations of the late Queen. Last year, the Cabinet Office issued a directive stressing that any public use of Queen Elizabeth’s name, including the naming of buildings, parks or businesses, would require special permission. This policy ensures that tributes to the late monarch are managed respectfully and appropriately.
Anniversary and future reflections
The anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death this weekend will also mark the second year of King Charles III’s reign. Traditionally, such anniversaries are private affairs for the royal family, reflecting on the life and legacy of the late monarch. King Charles is expected to spend the day in Scotland, where he has been for most of the summer. The anniversary will be a moment of private reflection rather than a public ceremony.
The new memorial in St James’s Park will serve as a public testament to the remarkable life and reign of Queen Elizabeth II. It will be a place where both locals and tourists can pay their respects and reflect on the legacy of a monarch who was much loved by the nation.