In Bancroft Gardens beside the River Avon, the Gower Memorial honours William Shakespeare with a seated bronze figure surrounded by characters from his plays. Look for Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, Falstaff and Prince Hal, figures chosen to represent different sides of Shakespeare’s writing. Unveiled in 1888, the memorial was made in France and given to Stratford-upon-Avon. Pause to study the sculptures, then continue towards the nearby waterfront and theatres. The garden setting gives you space to take photographs and look closely at the bronze work.
Shakespeare and his characters
The memorial shows William Shakespeare seated, with four figures from his plays placed around him: Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, Falstaff and Prince Hal. Together, they represent philosophy, tragedy, comedy and history, reflecting the range of Shakespeare’s work.
The bronze figures were made in France and presented to Stratford-upon-Avon. The memorial was unveiled in 1888, after a construction that took 12 years.
A move to Bancroft Gardens
The Gower Memorial was moved to its current position in Bancroft Gardens in 1933. It stands near the River Avon and the town’s theatres, making it easy to include on a walk through the waterfront area.
Take a moment to look at the separate figures from different angles. The garden’s foliage adds seasonal colour, with wild lavender among the plants reported in summer. The entrance is wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Where is the Gower Memorial?
It is in Bancroft Gardens in Stratford-upon-Avon, near the River Avon and the theatres.
Which Shakespeare characters are shown?
The memorial depicts Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, Falstaff and Prince Hal around a seated figure of Shakespeare.
When was the memorial unveiled?
It was unveiled in 1888 and moved to its current location in Bancroft Gardens in 1933.
How long should you spend at the Gower Memorial?
Allow around 15 to 30 minutes to look at the sculptures and pause in the gardens.
