Marble Arch illuminated in rainbow colours to celebrate Pride in London

2nd July 2019

Marble Arch illuminated to support Pride in London 2019. Image courtesy of Marble Arch London BID, English Heritage and Westminster City Council. © Michael Pilkington

London’s iconic Marble Arch was turned rainbow for one night only.

For the first time ever, the historic UK landmark was illuminated in the colours of the rainbow flag on Thursday 27 June to celebrate Pride in London 2019, which culminates in the annual parade this weekend on Saturday 6 July.

The tribute was organised by Marble Arch London BID in collaboration with English Heritage and Westminster City Council, who noted the Arch’s history in political movements, including as a place of congregation for the women’s suffrage movement.

“Marble Arch has had a long history as a symbol of rightful causes,” said Kay Buxton, Chief Executive of Marble Arch London BID.

“It’s only fitting that the monument should now play its part in embracing this important event, the success of which shows how much has been achieved over the years for LGBT+ rights in the UK.

“Of course, unfortunately the LGBT+ community can still face levels of discrimination and intolerance, and this is why it is so important that organisations and institutions continue to support Pride in highly visible ways.”

Ian Adams, LGBT+ Lead Member of Westminster City Council, said: “Lighting up Marble Arch in rainbow colours is a fun and eye-catching way of celebrating the diversity of Westminster’s community as we count down to the biggest LGBT+ parade in the UK.

“Over 500 groups will be parading through our streets at this year’s Pride in London and transforming Marble Arch is just one of the ways we will be supporting this large-scale and important celebration of the LGBT+ community.”