Animals In War Memorial — Attraction in London

Located on the edge of Hyde Park near Marble Arch, the Animals in War Memorial is a powerful and poignant tribute to the countless animals that served, suffered, and died alongside human soldiers in conflicts across the centuries. Officially opened on 24 November 2004 by Anne, Princess Royal, the memorial brings attention to a group too often overlooked in traditional war remembrance.

Designed by sculptor David Backhouse, the memorial is striking both in scale and symbolism. Constructed from Portland stone and cast bronze, it measures an impressive 58 feet (17.68 metres) wide and 55 feet (16.76 metres) deep. Its centrepiece is a curved stone wall engraved with bas-relief images of animals that served in war—mules, horses, elephants, camels, pigeons, and dogs among them—framing a bronze pathway that visually and emotionally draws visitors in. Life-sized bronze sculptures of a horse and a mule appear to walk through a break in the wall, symbolising animals journeying into the unknown hardships of war. Elsewhere, a dog and additional pack animals climb an incline, burdened with supplies, capturing both their resilience and their suffering.

What distinguishes this memorial is the profound emotional response it evokes. The simple but deeply affecting inscription—"They had no choice"—underscores the involuntary nature of animal involvement in warfare. It invites a different kind of reflection than more traditional war memorials, emphasising the voiceless heroism and enduring loyalty of animals who served in silence.

The memorial’s design encourages interaction and contemplation. Children are often drawn to the tactile nature of the bronze sculptures, while adults are struck by the stark beauty and moral weight of the site. Its accessible location and thoughtful layout make it a compelling stop for visitors of all ages.

In summary, the Animals in War Memorial is a moving and beautifully crafted landmark. It stands not only as a testament to animal service and sacrifice, but as a reminder of our shared history and responsibilities. For anyone interested in military history, animal welfare, or meaningful public art, it offers a unique and memorable experience—one well worth seeking out in the...

MEMORIAL WAS UNVEILED ON 24TH NOVEMBER 2004. BY H.R.H. THE PRINCESS ROYAL .KG. PATRON OF THE ANIMAL WAR MEMORIAL FUND.

ON LEFT IN RING OF LAUREL LEAVES. FOR GALLANTRY WE ALSO SERVED THE P.D.S.A. DICKIN MEDAL THE ANIMAL VICTORIA CROSS

MANY AND VARIOUS ANIMALS WERE EMPLOYED TO SUPPORT THE BRITISH AND ALLIED FORCES IN WARS AND CAMPAIGNS OVER THE CENTURIES, AND AS A RESULT MILLIONS DIED FROM THE PIGEON TO THE ELEPHANT. THEY ALL PLAYED A VITAL ROLE IN EVERY REGION OF THE WORLD.IN THE CAUSE OF HUMAN FREEDOM. THEIR CONTRIBUTION MUST NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

THE BUILDING OF THIS MONUMENT WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY GENEROUS PUBLIC DONATIONS. PRINCIPAL BENEFACTORS THE ESTATE OF PAUL HELLUM, WESTMINSTER FOUNDATION, PET GROUP, R.S.P.C.A. CADOGAN CHARITY, DOGS HOME BATTERSEA, AMALGAMATION OF RACING PIGEONS, P.D.S.A. WILIAM PEARS GROUP, GEOFFREY KAYLE FOUNDATION, HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY, SUNLEY FOUNDATION, AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB, A.S.P.C.A. H.P.H SIR STANLEY AND LADYCLARKE, KALE FOUNDATION, PATRICK DOHERTY, LORD LEVERHOLME TRUST, H.S.O.S. MICHAEL STONE, MRS ANNETTE PHILLIPS, THE KENNEL CLUB, THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, JILLY COOPER.O.B.E. ROYAL REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY, VETENARY CORPS, EVA RAUSING, BLUE CROSS KIRSTON RAUSING SIR ANTHONY BAMFORD,MR & MRS CHARLES WATTS, IRISH TERRIER ASSOCIATION, SPA WAY, JUNE MAKEPEACE AND FAMILY, HAMPTON NTL,...

The Animals in War Memorial is located just east of Hyde Park in the green space between the north and southbound traffic on Park Lane.

This is an interesting and honourable tribute to the animals used to support British and Commonwealth war efforts during conflicts of the 20th century. The memorial is a parted half circle with a bronze horse leading the way through the spilt monument. There are also bronze statues of a dog, an ox and mule following the horse.

The Animals of War Memorial is was designed by David Backhouse and unveiled here in 2004. It is one of many memorials nearby and worth a few minutes to visit if you intend to spend time in this area of the city.

Other similar monuments nearby, at the SE corner of Hyde Park, include the Wellington Arch, Duke of Wellington Statue, Royal Artillery Memorial, Machine Gun Corp Memorial, New Zealand Memorial, Australia Memorial and across the street in Green Park, you can see the Bomber...