The Gurkha Statue and Memorial was erected in the Garden of Remembrance (by Christchurch Tower) in Sandgate Road, Folkestone in October 2015, and unveiled by Joanna Lumley OBE, a long-term supporter of Gurkha campaigns.

The Unveiling

The statue was unveiled on 4th October 2015 as one of the final acts of public commemoration of 200 years of Gurkha service to the UK. Created by sculptor Rebecca Hawkins, the memorial stands as a powerful tribute to the courage, loyalty, and sacrifice of Gurkha soldiers who have served with distinction in the British Armed Forces.

The Design

The finished sculpture features a modern life-size Gurkha in modern combat kit—the type worn by current operational soldiers deployed in Afghanistan. The soldier carries an SA80 rifle and a backpack with the Union Jack flying from the back. All relevant cap badges are visible, and he has a Kukri knife attached to his webbing. He stands on his plinth facing East towards Nepal, set in the Garden of Remembrance, flanked by flag posts and with a background of mature trees.

Community Funded

The statue was paid for entirely through over £60,000 of donations and fundraising from the public in Folkestone and across the country. No taxpayers' funding was sought or received for the statue—a testament to the deep respect and gratitude the British public holds for the Gurkhas.

A Symbol of 200 Years of Service

The Gurkhas have served the British Crown with distinction since 1815, following the Anglo-Nepalese War. Their reputation for bravery, loyalty, and fighting prowess has become legendary. The memorial serves as a focal point for remembrance and a place where their extraordinary contributions to British military history are recognized and celebrated.

Visit the Memorial

The memorial is open to the public year-round. We encourage visitors to pay their respects and learn more about the remarkable history of the Gurkha regiments. The site serves as both a place of remembrance and an educational resource for understanding this unique military partnership.