Statue of Neptune, Bristol
The Statue of Neptune in Bristol has a fascinating history that spans several relocations throughout the years. Originally situated in the Temple area near Bristol Bridge, it has witnessed the growth and transformation of the city. Over time, it became a familiar sight at the head of Saint Augustine's Reach before finding its current location in the City Center.
Standing proudly in the central pedestrian area of Broad Quay, the Statue of Neptune is a remarkable example of an 18th-century lead statue, elevated on a pedestal. The statue depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, with his commanding presence. On one hand, he holds a long trident, symbolizing his dominion over the oceans. The other hand grasps the tail of a magnificent fish, believed to be a sturgeon. The fish coils down and around to face forward, its mouth open wide with teeth on display.
Neptune, adorned with a regal crown, is depicted with a strategically placed drapery that is fastened to his body. The fabric flows out behind him, creating a loop over his back, which complements the curved shape of the fish below when viewed from the side. The statue's overall composition is well thought out and aesthetically pleasing.
Today, the Statue of Neptune stands as an iconic symbol of Bristol's past and present. It serves as a reminder of the city's maritime heritage and close relationship with the sea. Visitors and locals alike can admire the grandeur of the statue, appreciating its historical significance and contribution to Bristol's cultural landscape.
Standing proudly in the central pedestrian area of Broad Quay, the Statue of Neptune is a remarkable example of an 18th-century lead statue, elevated on a pedestal. The statue depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, with his commanding presence. On one hand, he holds a long trident, symbolizing his dominion over the oceans. The other hand grasps the tail of a magnificent fish, believed to be a sturgeon. The fish coils down and around to face forward, its mouth open wide with teeth on display.
Neptune, adorned with a regal crown, is depicted with a strategically placed drapery that is fastened to his body. The fabric flows out behind him, creating a loop over his back, which complements the curved shape of the fish below when viewed from the side. The statue's overall composition is well thought out and aesthetically pleasing.
Today, the Statue of Neptune stands as an iconic symbol of Bristol's past and present. It serves as a reminder of the city's maritime heritage and close relationship with the sea. Visitors and locals alike can admire the grandeur of the statue, appreciating its historical significance and contribution to Bristol's cultural landscape.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bristol. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Statue of Neptune on Map
Sight Name: Statue of Neptune
Sight Location: Bristol, England (See walking tours in Bristol)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Bristol, England (See walking tours in Bristol)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Bristol, England
Create Your Own Walk in Bristol
Creating your own self-guided walk in Bristol is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Banksy Tour in Bristol
Visiting Bristol is like browsing an outdoor urban gallery. Roaming the streets here you will find it difficult not to come across state-of-the-art graffiti adorning the city walls – boldly displayed in narrow passageways, backstreets or on buildings – depicting wry humor and subversive images of pop-culture.
Bristol is also where one of the greatest enigmas of recent times – Banksy –... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.9 Km or 4.3 Miles
Bristol is also where one of the greatest enigmas of recent times – Banksy –... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.9 Km or 4.3 Miles
Famous Bristol Statues Walking Tour
Throughout its more than 1,000-year-long history, Bristol, England, has generated a wealth of cultural and historical heritage. Reflecting it now, and in some way matching it too, are a number of statues that celebrate personalities who made their mark and once graced the city with their association. These statues are scattered throughout the city, each with its unique story and importance.
The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Bristol Introduction Walking Tour
A historical city in the southwest of England, Bristol was founded around the year 1000 AD. Predating the settlement at the confluence of the Frome and Avon rivers were the Iron Age hillforts and Roman villas.
The name "Bristol" evolved from the Old English "Brycgstow", which means “the place at the bridge”. Its current form emerged through the tendency of the local... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
The name "Bristol" evolved from the Old English "Brycgstow", which means “the place at the bridge”. Its current form emerged through the tendency of the local... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles