Freddie Gilroy and the Belsen Stragglers Redcar
A powerful metal sculpture honoring Freddie Gilroy, a Holocaust survivor and liberator, set against Scarborough's scenic North Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the sea breeze and views
Freddie Gilroy and the Belsen Stragglers Redcar
Best Time
Enjoy the sea breeze and views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful metal sculpture honoring Freddie Gilroy, a Holocaust survivor and liberator, set against Scarborough's scenic North Bay.
"An incredible piece of art with a poignant history, truly worth a visit."
Read the History Plate
Take time to read the info board; it adds deep context to the sculpture's impact. :book:
Appreciate the Artistry
The metalwork is incredibly detailed and thought-provoking. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Freddie Gilroy Sculpture
Scarborough North Bay
A powerful metal sculpture of Freddie Gilroy, a Holocaust survivor, offering a poignant connection to history.
Informative History Plate
At the sculpture's base
Learn about Freddie Gilroy's incredible life story and his role in liberating Belsen concentration camp.
Scenic Sea Views
Scarborough North Bay
Enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery and the ever-changing moods of the North Sea from this reflective spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Poignant Coastal Memorial
Embrace the North Bay Setting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Read the History Plate
Take time to read the info board; it adds deep context to the sculpture's impact. :book:
Appreciate the Artistry
The metalwork is incredibly detailed and thought-provoking. :art:
Combine with a Stroll
Perfect spot for a walk along North Bay. :walking:
Bigger Than Photos
The sculpture is larger than it appears in pictures. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Read the History Plate
Take time to read the info board; it adds deep context to the sculpture's impact. :book:
Appreciate the Artistry
The metalwork is incredibly detailed and thought-provoking. :art:
Combine with a Stroll
Perfect spot for a walk along North Bay. :walking:
Bigger Than Photos
The sculpture is larger than it appears in pictures. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Freddie Gilroy sculpture as a powerful and moving tribute, appreciating its artistic merit and historical significance. The beautiful North Bay setting enhances the reflective experience, though some note the serious nature of the subject matter. It's widely considered a worthwhile and thought-provoking stop.
"Awesome reminder of who Freddie Gilroy was. Visited a couple of days ago. Got a nice history plate with the status and a beautiful view of the sea. Must visit if in Scarborough. And it is bigger than it looks in the photos (no pun) 😄"
Farrukh H
"Interesting sculpture along Scarborough north bay, lovely place to rest on a sunny afternoon. Thought provoking info board about the sculpture and the inspiration behind it"
Neil Gibson
"The Freddie Gilroy Sculpture in Scarborough's North Bay always attracts attention and rightly so.
I must have passed it hundreds of times and I always give Freddie a quick nod as I go past.
Having recently watched the BBC2 documentary "What They Found" directed by Sam Mendes, I can't imagine how Freddie felt and how he coped with such trauma.
If you haven't seen this documentary, then it is not an easy watch to say the least.
Words really can't describe the horrors experienced by those kept in captivity and by those who helped liberate this concentration camp, including Freddie.
It is wonderful that Freddie now has a permanent view of the North Sea and its ever changing moods.
The sculpture, created by Ray Lonsdale, is imposing and yet gives the impression that Freddie is deep in thought, perhaps thinking of his involvement with the liberation of Belsen.
Freddie came face to face with the horrors of the Holocaust and this sculpture captures this enigmatic man.
On a little bit of a lighter note, Freddie is very popular with locals and visitors and is always worth a visit.
I hope to see you again soon, Freddie."
Faith Young
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Freddie Gilroy sculpture is located in Scarborough's North Bay, not Redcar. You can reach Scarborough by car via the A165 or A171. Public transport options include train services to Scarborough station, followed by a local bus or a walk to North Bay. Parking is available nearby in North Bay.
Yes, there are several parking options available in Scarborough's North Bay, making it convenient to visit the Freddie Gilroy sculpture. Some are pay-and-display.
Absolutely! The Freddie Gilroy sculpture is situated along the scenic North Bay promenade, making it a pleasant walk from other parts of the bay or the town center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Freddie Gilroy sculpture is an outdoor public art installation and is free to view at any time. There are no admission fees.
As an outdoor sculpture in a public space, the Freddie Gilroy sculpture is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and to read the accompanying information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The sculpture honors Freddie Gilroy, a Holocaust survivor and a liberator of the Belsen concentration camp. It's a poignant tribute to his experiences and resilience, set against the backdrop of the sea.
Yes, there is a history plate located at the base of the sculpture that provides details about Freddie Gilroy's life and his significant role in history. Visitors find this information very moving and informative.
The sculpture itself is a powerful artistic representation. While the subject matter is serious, the physical sculpture is accessible. The accompanying historical information may be more suitable for older children and adults.
Visitors recommend taking your time to observe the intricate metalwork and reading the history plate to fully appreciate the story behind Freddie Gilroy. Enjoying the sea views from the sculpture's location also enhances the experience.
The sculpture is located along the North Bay promenade, which is generally accessible. However, specific accessibility details for the immediate area around the sculpture should be confirmed on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is permitted and encouraged. Many visitors capture the sculpture against the backdrop of the sea and sky. Remember to be respectful of the solemn nature of the memorial.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting for photographs. The changing weather and sea conditions also add a dynamic element to your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🤔 History Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Ray Lonsdale
Lonsdale's work often explores themes of humanity, memory, and the impact of conflict. The Freddie Gilroy sculpture is a prime example, transforming industrial materials into a deeply personal and historical narrative. The way the sculpture 'bleeds into' the landscape, as one reviewer noted, is a testament to Lonsdale's ability to integrate art with its environment, creating a living memorial that evolves with the coastal setting.
Many find the sculpture to be more imposing and detailed in person than in photographs, highlighting the importance of experiencing it firsthand. The artist's intention to create a thought-provoking piece that sparks conversation about history and remembrance is clearly achieved through this powerful installation.
A Memorial to Resilience and Remembrance
Visitors often connect the sculpture to documentaries and historical accounts of the Holocaust, finding it a moving tribute to the survivors and those who perished. The information board provides crucial context, allowing visitors to understand the depth of Freddie's experiences and the significance of his survival. It's a reminder of the importance of never forgetting such atrocities and honoring the strength of the human spirit.
The sculpture's presence in Scarborough's North Bay transforms a scenic location into a place of historical significance. It encourages reflection on the past while offering a beautiful, peaceful setting for visitors to connect with this important piece of history.
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