Giles Circus and Statue
A whimsical bronze sculpture of the iconic Giles family cartoons, celebrating cartoonist Carl Giles in the heart of Ipswich.
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Giles Circus and Statue
Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical bronze sculpture of the iconic Giles family cartoons, celebrating cartoonist Carl Giles in the heart of Ipswich.
"A charming bronze depiction of Grandma Giles and her family, a beloved piece of Ipswich's heritage."
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the whimsical bronze figures of the Giles family. Great for fans of classic British cartoons!
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible at the intersection of major streets, making it a convenient stop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giles Family Sculpture
Confluence of Princes Street, Queen Street, and King Street
A charming bronze depiction of Grandma Giles, Aunt Vera, the twins, and the dog from the iconic Giles cartoons.
Cartoonist's Legacy
Giles Circus
Commemorating cartoonist Carl Giles, a former Ipswich resident who based characters on locals.
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Planning Your Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the whimsical bronze figures of the Giles family. Great for fans of classic British cartoons!
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible at the intersection of major streets, making it a convenient stop.
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with exploring Ipswich Market or the town center.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the whimsical bronze figures of the Giles family. Great for fans of classic British cartoons!
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible at the intersection of major streets, making it a convenient stop.
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with exploring Ipswich Market or the town center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the charming bronze sculpture commemorating cartoonist Carl Giles and his beloved characters. Its central location makes it an easily accessible landmark, especially when combined with the vibrant Ipswich Market. While some note the translation from drawing to metal lacks the original's fluidity, it remains a fondly remembered and visually engaging piece of public art.
"Giles Circus could be considered to mark the epicentre of Ipswich. The cartoonist was a former resident of the town & is even said to have based some of his characters on those he encountered around the town. Giles remains a fondly remembered artist by many, long after his passing, hence his commemoration here by this heavyweight bronze. The sculpture shows an amusing collection of his characters, but it has to be said that the fluency of his draughtsmanship doesn't reflect in such a substantial tonnage of metal spelter..."
Roy
"Statue of Grandma Giles along with Aunt "runny nose" Vera, the twins and the dog from the Giles family cartoons by Carl Giles. Situated at the confluence of Princes Street, Queen Street and King Street. Heard they are facing the old studio of Giles."
Sumit Surai
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Giles Circus and Statue is centrally located at the confluence of Princes Street, Queen Street, and King Street in Ipswich. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the vicinity, though they can get busy during peak times.
Yes, there are several car parks within walking distance of Giles Circus and Statue. The nearest ones include the Princes Street car park and the Crown multi-storey car park. It's advisable to check parking availability and costs beforehand, especially on market days.
Absolutely! Giles Circus and Statue is a central landmark in Ipswich, making it easily walkable from many parts of the town center. If you're staying in the city, it's a pleasant stroll to reach the sculpture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Giles Circus and Statue is an outdoor public art installation and is free to view at any time. There are no tickets or admission fees required.
As an outdoor sculpture, Giles Circus and Statue is accessible 24/7. You can visit it at any time of day or night.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photos is often during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for softer lighting. However, the sculpture is also well-lit at night, offering a different photographic perspective.
Try capturing the full ensemble of characters from different viewpoints. Getting down low can emphasize the scale of the bronze figures, while a wider shot can include the surrounding streetscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Giles Circus is located near Ipswich Market, which often features food stalls like The Latin Table serving burritos and quesadillas. There are also numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the surrounding town center offering a variety of dining options.
You can certainly grab lunch nearby! The Latin Table, located at Giles Circus by the statue, serves delicious burritos and quesadillas during lunchtime on market days.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing a visit with a trip to Ipswich Market, which is right next door, offers even more for families. Kids can enjoy the buzz of the market, and there are often food stalls with kid-friendly options. It’s a low-stress, engaging stop that adds a touch of whimsy to a family outing in Ipswich.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Consider researching Carl Giles and his cartoons before your visit to fully appreciate the context and artistry behind the sculpture. Understanding his connection to Ipswich and how he based characters on local people adds depth to the experience. It’s a chance to engage with a piece of cultural heritage in a public, accessible setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Carl Giles
The sculpture itself features key characters from the Giles family, including Grandma Giles, the perpetually flustered Aunt Vera (known for her 'runny nose'), the mischievous twins, and the family dog. While the original cartoons were known for their intricate draughtsmanship, the translation into a heavy bronze sculpture offers a different, more tangible appreciation of the characters' personalities. It's a piece of public art that sparks recognition and nostalgia for many.
Visitors often remark on the charm and detail of the bronze figures. It's a spot that resonates with those who grew up with the cartoons, offering a moment to connect with a piece of British cultural history. The placement at the confluence of Princes Street, Queen Street, and King Street makes it a prominent and easily discoverable landmark.
Experiencing Ipswich Market
Food vendors at the market, such as The Latin Table, often set up shop right by the Giles statue, offering delicious and convenient lunch options like burritos and quesadillas. This makes Giles Circus a perfect spot to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the sights and sounds of the market. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with a culinary experience.
Visiting on a market day adds an extra layer of vibrancy to your trip to Giles Circus. The bustling activity, the variety of stalls, and the presence of food vendors create a dynamic environment that complements the static charm of the bronze sculpture. It’s a well-rounded experience that appeals to various interests, from art appreciation to local culture and gastronomy.
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