On the South side of Hyde Park opposite the Royal Albert Theatre this imposing memorial can be found. London’s memorials often pale when compared to its European counterparts, but this memorial is lovely. In a good position, it is imposing and well-executed. Well worth a visit!
On weekends there are roller blade classes at its foot and it is a short walk to the science, natural and V&A museum as well as Kensington High Street from here…

The Albert Memorial is one of those sights of London featured in every Guide Book, but easily overlooked in the rush to see everything else. But a visit is easily combined with a lazy afternoon in Kensington Gardens (much better than the horrid Diana fountain) or the adjacent Royal Albert Hall.

Prince Albert himself (Queen Victoria's husband) died of typhoid in 1861 at the relatively young age of 42. Victoria was inconsolable, and alongside the Albert Hall, it was decided to erect a memorial, influenced by the 13th Century 'Eleanor Crosses' erected by Edward I in memory of his wife.

Officially titled the 'Prince Consort National Memorial', it celebrates Victorian achievement and Prince Albert's passions and interests. The design by the architect Sir George Gilbert Scott used materials from across the globe (symbolising the Empire, of course!), together with the latest new metalworking and electro-plating techniques. The final result is a fantastic piece of Victorian High Gothic.

Many of the construction and decorative techniques used were highly innovative at the time, and did not wear well, so a huge restoration programme was embarked upon in the 1990's. Albert and his memorial are now in excellent condition, resplendent in copious gilding. He is also splendidly flood-light at night.