Banbury Cross

Banbury Cross is a Victorian monument erected in 1859 to commemorate the marriage of Victoria, Princess Royal to Prince Frederick of Prussia. Designed by architect John Gibbs in Gothic Revival style, this impressive structure stands 52 feet (16 meters) tall and dominates the town center. The monument features ornate carved stone details and statues of Queen Victoria, Edward VII, and George V, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Victorian era. Located at the junction of Horse Fair, West Bar, South Bar, and Broad Street in Banbury town center, it serves as a central landmark and meeting point. Banbury Cross is famous from the beloved nursery rhyme 'Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross.' The original medieval cross that inspired the rhyme was destroyed by Puritans in 1600, making the current Victorian monument a symbolic restoration of this historic landmark. Today, Banbury Cross is a popular tourist attraction and photo opportunity, representing Banbury's rich heritage and serving as an iconic symbol of the town's history and culture.