Tower Hill Memorials, London
“No grave but the sea”
This wonderful memorial in the heart of London commemorates both men and women of the Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets, who died during both world wars and have no grave but the sea.
This memorial is often overlooked by visitors, as it is located just opposite the imposing Tower of London.
The tower from Trinity park
Hopefully you can take time out of your busy schedule and give this memorial the time that it deserves.
Quick Links
The Great War
On the south side of Trinity Square Gardens stands the vaulted passageway, which commemorates almost 12,000 Mercantile Marines lives lost during World War I.
Close-up of the Great War Memorial
Inside the Memorial
Every name is engraved upon the 12 bronze plaques, which you are free to respectfully stroll through and reflect.
The First World War memorial was unveiled by Queen Mary on 12th December 1928.
A total of 3,305 merchant ships were lost, along with 17,000 lives.
Want to discover more than about London?
We have a little book on our shelves that we sometimes delve into when we're about to hit an area of London.
Packed full of historical facts, and broken down into the different regions of London, it's a great resource to help you see what's hidden in plain sight.
Available in Kindle & Hardback editions, it's an excellent addition to anyone's collection who loves London.
Honor
Just beyond the World War I commemoration are two striking statues, one of an officer and the other of a seaman. These two wonderful figures guide you down into the sunken garden of the World War II memorial.
An Officer
A Seaman
World War II
Stepping down into the semi-circular sunken garden, you’ll be astounded at the sea of names that engulf you. There are almost 24,000 British seamen named, along with 50 Australian seamen.
During the Second World War a total of 4,786 merchant ships were lost, along with 32,000 lives. More than one quarter of this total were lost in home waters.
Neptune at the Tower Hill Memorial
A mermaid at the Tower Hill Memorial
This WWII memorial was unveiled by Queen Elizabeth II on 5th November 1955.
No grave but the sea
In total 35,839 identified casualties are remembered here, which have “no grave but the sea”.
Trinity Square Gardens
Visitors panels are displayed around the garden, to give you further insight into the lives of these brave men and women.
The view across Tower Hill Memorial and Trinity Gardens
As these memorials are set within a garden, you’ll often find escaped City workers whiling away their lunch break on the grass.
If you're in the area?
Why not check out our post - 'Sights to see near Tower Hill tube station, London' for more on the area.
10 Trinity Square
10 Trinity Square which was once the headquarters of the Port of London Authority, stands proud overlooking these memorials, towards the River Thames.
(Some of you may recognize it from the James Bond film ‘Skyfall’)
The Sundial at Tower Hill Gardens
Outside 10 Trinity Square at dusk
A 14th Century Scaffold Site
Within Trinity Square Gardens also lies a memorial to the Scaffold site once used for public executions, dating from 1381 to 1747. Many of whom were dignitaries and clergymen.
One of the plaques which lies in the memorial garden reads;
"To commemorate the tragic history and in many cases the martyrdom of those who for the sake of their faith, country or ideals staked their lives and lost" "On this site more than 125 were put to death, the names of some of whom are recorded here"
Site of the gallows in Trinity park
Have You?
Wandered through this park? Enjoyed a picnic on the green? Or have you visited the Tower of London and missed the chance to visit the memorials without knowing they existed?
* This post may contain links to affiliated sites where we earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.
Inspired to visit the Tower Hill memorials?
It's easy to get to. It's nearest tube is Tower Hill, or if you're coming from the east via the DLR then Tower Gateway,
Or if you're coming via overland train then Fenchurch Street, London Bridge or even Liverpool Steet are all within walking distance.
Have a peek at the latest offers from Booking.com, our preferred hotel booking website.
Booking.com
(Why not Pin It for Later?)
If you enjoy what you see, and you’d like regular updates then join us for a monthly newsletter.
