Scott Monument East Princes Street Gardens , Edinburgh Old Town EH2 2EJ | |
01315294068 | |
Scott Monument Website | |
Facebook information can be found here | |
Dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, it is one of the largest monuments to a writer anywhere in the world.
There are 287 steps to the top of the Scott Monument, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside. Find out about Sir Walter Scott and the monument in the museum room.
The monument was designed by George Meikle Kemp (1795 - 1844) who was inspired by the architecture of Melrose Abbey and Roslin Chapel. It is over 200 feet (61 metres) high, with 287 steps to four levels from which you can have spectacular views. The foundation stone was laid on August 15th 1840, Scott's birthday, and the inauguration ceremony was held six years later on the same date.
Look out for the 64 statues of characters from the books of Sir Walter Scott, the Edinburgh-born writer famous for his historical novels. Learn more of his story and how George Meikle Kemp designed this amazing Gothic structure - a prodigious building feat of its time. Some of the earliest photographs ever taken show the building of the monument in the 1840s.
The statue at the base of the monument is of Scott, with his dog Maida, by sculptor Sir John Steell, who carved it from Italian Carrara marble.
During adverse weather conditions (high winds especially) please check our social media accounts before travelling as the monument may be closed at short notice for safety reasons.
Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland's capital city from its great rock. Its story has helped shape the nation's story.
READ MOREThe museum tells the story of Scottish firefighting from its inception to present day. Explore antique fire engines, engaging interactives, artefacts and more.
READ MOREThe Museum on the Mound is located in the heart of Edinburgh's city centre, just 500 metres from Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street!
READ MOREThe National Mining Museum Scotland, a 5 Star visitor attraction housed in the wonderfully restored Lady Victoria Colliery in Newtongrange!
READ MOREA free museum, perfect for locals and visitors alike. Find out about our Royal connections, the trades of the town, the ordinary - and extra-ordinary! - people.
READ MOREThe beautiful St Cecilia's Hall dates back to 1763 and is also home to the University of Edinburgh's internationally renowned collection of historic musical instruments.
READ MOREDating back to 1470 John Knox House is one of Scotland's greatest cultural treasures and is associated with the most dramatic events in Scotland's turbulent history!
READ MORENo day out on the Royal Mile is complete without a visit to the Museum of Edinburgh, where the City’s past is brought vividly to life.
READ MOREHead off on a journey of discovery at this former airfield as you explore the history of aviation from the First World War to the present day
READ MOREDunbar Town House Museum and Gallery: the Town House has been the focus of town life since the 16th century.
READ MOREPrestongrange is a free open-air museum, that tells 700 years of industrial heritage history. Family friendly, with lots to see and do!
READ MOREConnecting Scotland to the world and the world to Scotland.
READ MORE