The National Wallace Monument, a tribute to Sir William Wallace, sits at the top of Abbey Craig near Stirling. At 220 feet tall (67 meters), this sandstone tower was completed in 1869 after eight years of construction. Scottish architect John Thomas Rochead designed the Wallace Monument. It has many distinctive features, including a crown spire, turrets, and gun loops. Culminating in a structure that exudes a Scottish Baronial appearance and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Abbey Craig holds historical importance as the vantage point from which Wallace is believed to have observed the English forces before the pivotal Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. The Battle of Stirling Bridge marked a significant victory for the Scots under Wallace's leadership in bolstering their fight for independence.
Visitors to the Monument can discover the different chambers as you climb the tower.
The Hall of Arms delves into Wallace's rise as a leader of the Scottish army and showcases the legendary Wallace Sword. A 5-foot 4-inch (1.63-meter) longsword weighing nearly 6.6 pounds (3 kilograms).
The Hall of Heroes Has a collection of busts honouring notable Scots, including Robert the Bruce, Robert Burns, and James Watt.
The Royal Chamber: This chamber provides insights into the Battle of Stirling Bridge and allows visitors to design their own Coat of Arms.
Over the years, the Monument has undergone various restoration efforts to preserve its structural integrity and historical artefacts. Notably, the Wallace Statue is a 20-foot (6-meter) bronze figure by sculptor David Watson Stevenson, which can be seen on the side of the Monument.
At the summit of the National Wallace Monument, visitors can access The Crown, an open-air observation platform offering expansive 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including the Ochil Hills and the Forth Valley. Visitors ascend a 246-step narrow spiral staircase to reach The Crown. Passing through the three exhibition galleries as you climb the Monument.
The last admission to enter the Wallace Monument is one hour before closing. Please note opening times may vary depending on weather conditions.
January, February, November and December: 10:00am – 4:00pm
March: 10:00am – 5:00pm
April to June: 9:30am – 5:00pm
July and August: 9:30am – 6:00pm
September & October: 9:30am – 5:00pm
You can purchase tickets online or inside the Wallace Monument.
How far is the Walk from the Car Park
The walk from the car park up the Abbey Craig to the Wallace Monument takes 15 - 20 minutes.
