Look for a sturdy, light stone monument with tall, classical columns and four urns perched on top, standing majestically on a raised platform right before you in the gardens.
Now, take a deep breath and let history wash over you as you stand before the Bournemouth War Memorial. Imagine it’s the year 1921-Bournemouth is still feeling the heavy shadows left behind by the First World War. The town wanted a way to remember those brave souls who never made it home, so they chose this very spot, nestled between the Town Hall and St. Andrew’s Church, to build something special.
Designed by Albert Edward Shervey, the deputy architect for Bournemouth, this monument was more than just stone-it was a symbol of hope and remembrance. But here’s the fun twist: guarding this memorial are two rather legendary lions! One is awake and roaring as if to say, “I am always on watch!” while the other is sleeping, perhaps dreaming of peace. Shervey borrowed this idea from the famous Canova’s lions that stand guard in Rome. But don’t try waking the sleepy lion-he’s been practicing his napping skills for over a century! The stone is cool to the touch, the air here often tinged with the hum of distant traffic mixing with birdsong. If you listen closely enough, you might just hear echoes from the past-stories of courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of a seaside town determined never to forget.
