Wallace Monument

The National Wallace Monument is a 19th-century tower on Abbey Craig above Stirling, Scotland, commemorating Sir William Wallace and Scotland’s struggle for independence. Construction was carried out between 1861 and 1869 and the tower stands roughly 67 metres tall.

Exhibits inside include artefacts and interpretation about Wallace and other Scottish heroes, the display of the Wallace Sword, and the Hall of Heroes. The tower has an internal staircase of 246 steps leading to a viewing gallery with panoramic views over Stirling, the River Forth and the surrounding hills.

The monument was commissioned and funded by public subscription in the mid-19th century and designed by architect John Thomas Rochead. It has since been preserved as a national memorial and visitor attraction.

It sits on Abbey Craig, a volcanic crag overlooking the city of Stirling; the site is a short drive or a walk of around 1.5 kilometres from Stirling city centre and Stirling Castle, surrounded by river valleys and rolling low hills.

• Access note: The tower rises about 67 metres and visitors reach the top by climbing 246 internal steps, so be prepared for a steep climb.
• Best views: Best long-range views are on clear days from the viewing gallery facing Stirling Castle and the River Forth.

What to See #

• Hall of Heroes: A display gallery that presents artefacts and biographies of Scottish heroes and military figures; includes panels explaining Wallace's role in Scottish history.
• Viewing gallery: A viewing gallery near the top of the tower reached by an internal staircase of 246 steps, offering panoramic views over Stirling, the River Forth and the surrounding Ochil Hills.
• Ground-floor displays: The base houses displays including the Wallace Sword and other relics associated with William Wallace and the monument's Victorian-era construction.