The Monument
A soaring tribute to a symbol of courage, innovation, and unity, the National Spitfire Monument will stand proudly on the Southampton waterfront — a dramatic, world-class landmark rising from the birthplace of the Spitfire. This extraordinary monument is a powerful symbol of remembrance and inspiration, honouring all those connected to the iconic aircraft and the global effort behind its legacy.
Design Concept & Architectural Vision
More than a sculpture — this is a story in the sky.
Designed to be as moving as it is monumental, the National Spitfire Monument combines cutting-edge engineering with deep historical symbolism. Every element of the design has meaning, celebrating the people, places, and innovation that made the Spitfire possible.
The overall structure will be 40 metres (131 feet) tall, placing it in the same league as Nelson’s Column and the Statue of Liberty — a landmark that can be seen for miles and experienced up close in profound ways.
Located at Mayflower Park in Southampton — the very city where the Spitfire was born — the monument will become a beacon of remembrance and pride for generations to come.
Monument Features
SPITFIRE SCULPTURE
At the heart of the monument is a stainless-steel Spitfire, soaring skyward in a breathtaking gesture of flight and freedom.
- 1.5 times the size of the original aircraft
- Positioned as if taking off from its historic birthplace
- Facing out over Southampton water, towards the skies it once ruled
This dynamic, gleaming form evokes both the past and future — paying tribute to the Spitfire’s legacy while reminding us of the courage it represents.
AIRFORCE ROUNDELS
Around the outer edge of the plinth, the monument honours not just the Spitfire, but the global effort that supported it.
- 30 roundels around the plinth representing the 30 nations who flew the Spitfire during its service life
- Each roundel has a diameter of 75 centimetres and shows the national insignia used on the Spitfire itself
- A unifying circle that tells an international story of cooperation and courage
VAPOUR TRAIL
Beneath the Spitfire, a sweeping stainless-steel mast forms a curved vapour trail, rising alongside the aircraft and directing the eye to the sky.
- Reflects light and sky, creating a sense of movement and elevation
- The word “Spitfire” is embossed in the original Vickers Supermarine brochure typography
- Five metres wide at the base, those who have made the Monument possible are recognised and thanked for their contribution here
THE PLINTH
The circular plinth extends out over Southampton waterfront.
- Inspired by Allied air force roundels and insignia
- A reflection pool offers a moment of quiet contemplation, mirroring the sky and the sculpture above
Concept Imagery & Design Development
Witness the evolution of the monument from concept to creation.
- Staged build-up renders
- 3D concept visuals
- Photorealistic imagery of the monument in situ at Mayflower Park
See how the vision is becoming reality — and explore the design from every angle in the fly through below.
THE ARCHITECT
The monument is the creation of Nick Hancock, an award-winning architect known for his ability to merge form with meaning.
Nick has approached the design with reverence and responsibility — balancing engineering ambition with artistic sensitivity. The result is a structure that not only commemorates but communicates: lifting the legacy of the Spitfire into the skies of the 21st century.
WATCH: FLY THROUGH
“The National Spitfire Monument is about more than one aircraft. It’s about innovation, sacrifice, and collaboration — values that remain vital today.”
Nick Hancock, Architect
LOCATION AND SITE MAP
A monument of this significance belongs in the city where the Spitfire was born. Mayflower Park, overlooking Southampton Water, offers:
- Uninterrupted views of the monument from land and sea
- Proximity to Southampton’s cruise terminal – the UK’s busiest port
- A symbolic gateway to the world, just as the Spitfire once was
Support the Monument
This is your monument too. Find out how you can support the project.