Arts, Bournemouth | Posted on June 23rd, 2026 | return to news

Bournemouth sculpture to mark life of Robert Louis Stevenson

A sculpture has been unveiled to honour the author who wrote ‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’, who moved to Westbourne in 1884.

In 1884, writer Robert Louis Stevenson moved with his wife Franny to Westbourne, and his time there has now been marked with a new sculpture in Alum Chine, Bournemouth.

To link the site and the sculpture, visitors are invited to walk in the footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson and find the ‘lost pages’ of his works, which have been placed on stone markers in Alum Chine.

The Stevensons’ house was named ‘Skerryvore’ after a lighthouse built by Stevenson’s uncle in Scotland. In the three years that he spent in Westbourne, Stevenson kept busy writing some of his most acclaimed work, including ‘Kidnapped’, ‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ and ‘A Child’s Garden of Verses’. It is this literary legacy and the man behind the words that will be commemorated in a new sculpture by Circling the Square.

The sculpture captures elements of his work and literary themes through the materials and details of the artwork. Imagery and quotes from his literary works are depicted within the sculpture, inspired by engagement with the local community and children of St Michael’s C of E Primary School.

At the launch of the sculpture, Cllr Richard Herrett, portfolio holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations, said: “This is a fantastic addition to Alum Chine and a real celebration of Bournemouth’s cultural and literary heritage.

“The sculpture brings Robert Louis Stevenson’s story to life in a way that is accessible, engaging and set beautifully within our coastline. It gives residents and visitors another reason to explore the area, learn something new and enjoy our natural surroundings.

“It’s been especially important that this project has involved the local community, from schools to heritage groups, helping to create something that people can feel proud of. It’s a great example of how we’re continuing to invest in culture and make it available for everyone to enjoy.”
Cllr Andy Martin, portfolio holder for Customer, Communications and Culture, said: “This project is a fantastic addition to BCP’s Coastal Art Trail and a celebration of Bournemouth’s rich literary heritage.

“The new sculpture not only honours Robert Louis Stevenson’s time in our area, but also creates an inspiring cultural landmark for residents and visitors alike. By connecting art, history and the natural beauty of our coastline, we are encouraging more people to explore our unique culture and heritage in an accessible and engaging way.

“I’d also like to thank the artist Tim Ward, the children and staff of St Michael’s Church of England Primary School and the Friends of Skerryvore, whose involvement has helped shape this meaningful and community-driven piece of work.”

Artist Tim Ward of Circling the Square said: “I am proud to have been commissioned by BCP Council to design and create the Robert Louis Stevenson Sculpture for Alum Chine.

“I thank the council officers and all those involved for their partnership working in the design of the sculptures, including St Michael’s Primary School and the Friends of Skerryvore, from developing the original concept to the final form for the artwork.

“The Robert Louis Stevenson Sculpture, along with the new landscaping, will, I am sure, provide inspiration for people visiting Alum Chine and become a positive landmark for Bournemouth.”

The Rev Christopher Colledge, who formed the Friends of Skerryvore eight years ago, said: “The design of the sculpture depicting the dark and light side of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde captivates the true significance of this most remarkable author. The sculpture will highlight the tremendous historical heritage that Robert Louis Stevenson brought to Bournemouth and it will be recognised not only locally but throughout the world.

“The Friends of Skerryvore, who care for the site of the Stevensons’ former home, were pleased to meet the artist and they, together with the whole community, look forward to when the sculpture is in place, as it will be a cultural landmark and generate interest nationally.”

While Skerryvore House no longer stands, the site can be visited today as memorial gardens which include the layout of the Stevensons’ home and a sculpture of the Skerryvore Lighthouse. These gardens are maintained by the voluntary group Friends of Skerryvore and are free for the public to enjoy.

Skerryvore Gardens are a short walk away from the heart of Westbourne and a 20-minute walk through Alum Chine to the sculpture and scenic beach.

This project is fully funded through a UK government grant. This artwork is part of BCP’s Coastal Art Trail and aims to encourage visitors to explore more of the coast and its heritage sites, providing free opportunities to access art and culture in the BCP area.

Information about BCP’s Coastal Public Art Trail and BCP’s Writers’ Trail, showcasing other renowned writers and their link to the Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch area, can be found on the Explore BCP website: www.explorebcp.co.uk.