The Jubilee Clock in Weymouth is a beloved landmark with a rich history. It was built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.
This impressive timepiece stands tall at 30 feet high and is adorned with intricate carvings and statues.
History
The Jubilee Clock has a rich history that spans over a century. It was built to commemorate Queen Victoria's 50 years of reign in 1887.
The clock tower was erected on Weymouth's esplanade, where it was set in front of the esplanade slightly projecting onto the sands of Weymouth Beach. The clock tower was unveiled on 31 October 1888.
The clock itself was donated by Sir Henry Edwards, while the gas company agreed to keep it illuminated for free in perpetuity. This was a generous contribution that helped make the clock tower a reality.
In the 1920s, the esplanade was extended around the clock tower to protect the beach from the encroachment of shingle from the eastern end, and to provide more promenade space on the seaward side. The clock tower itself was not moved during this process.
The clock tower was also painted in bright colours during the same decade, adding to its visual appeal.
Transport and Visits
Harlesden became the first area in northwest London to have horse-drawn trams in 1888.
Trams ran regularly through Harlesden by the Jubilee clock by 1910.
In 1907, electric trams powered by overhead wires came to Harlesden, improving the public transport system.
Buses continued to serve Harlesden from the 1960s, and the 'Jubilee Clock' bus stop remains one of the most popular stops in Harlesden to this day.
The Jubilee clock is still an important landmark for people in Harlesden, and locals still say, 'Meet me at Jubilee Clock!'
What Transport Has Passed?
In Harlesden, you can still see the tram lines on the road in old photographs.
Horse-drawn trams first arrived in Harlesden in 1888, making it the first area in northwest London to have this kind of transport.
By 1890, there was a horse-drawn bus every five minutes from Paddington to Harlesden and one every 12 minutes from Harlesden to Charing Cross.
Electric trams, powered by overhead wires, came to Harlesden in 1907, improving the public transport system.
Trams were travelling regularly through Harlesden by the Jubilee clock by 1910.
From the 1960s, buses continued to serve Harlesden and the ‘Jubilee Clock’ bus stop remains one of the most popular stops to this day.
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1888 Weymouth Visit by Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria's visit to Weymouth in 1888 was a significant event that showcased the town's transportation capabilities. The royal party arrived at Weymouth Harbour by train, a mode of transportation that was becoming increasingly popular at the time.
The harbour, which was a major transportation hub, played a crucial role in facilitating the royal visit. Weymouth's harbour was an important location for trade and commerce.
The royal party was greeted by a large crowd of people who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the Queen.
Victoria Street
Victoria Street has a clock tower that was moved to its present site in 1930. It's a significant landmark in the area.
Some restoration work took place in 1978, but it wasn't until 2003-2004 that a more extensive restoration was carried out. This included structural strengthening and repairs to the stonework.
The clock tower was damaged in the 2011 earthquake, but fortunately, it's a heritage-listed building and was prioritized for restoration.
For your interest: Conservation and Restoration of Clocks
Changes and Moves
The Jubilee clock has undergone some significant changes over the years.
In 1938, the clock was moved slightly to make more room for traffic, and the 4 lamps and arms on the side, along with the weather vane, were removed.
The clock has remained at the same junction on Harlesden High Street since 1888.
You can see the Jubilee clock in its former glory in a 1963 photo, where it's clear that the trams have been replaced by busy traffic.
The bus stop at this location still uses the name 'Jubilee Clock,' and it's one of the most frequently used bus stops in Harlesden.
The clock was originally presented to the City Council in 1879 and stored in their yard in Worcester Street.
It was eventually erected on the corner of High and Manchester Streets in 1897 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria's accession.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the big clock in the UK called?
The famous clock in the UK is known as Big Ben, an instantly recognisable landmark and one of the most Instagrammed sites globally.
What is the most famous clock face?
The most famous clock face is the one located at the Palace of Westminster in London, famously known as Big Ben. This iconic clock face is illuminated during parliamentary sessions and evenings, serving as the city's official timepiece.
How old is the Brighton clock Tower?
The Brighton clock tower was built in 1888, making it over 130 years old. It was constructed to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria.
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