National Wallace Monument Tours
Built in the mid-19th century, this Gothic-style tower commemorates William Wallace, the medieval Scottish freedom fighter whose story was fictionalized in the 1995 blockbuster, Braveheart. Exhibits chronicle key episodes from Scottish history, while the top offers views of Stirling Castle and the surrounding countryside.
The Basics
On a sightseeing and Braveheart-themed tour of Stirling, you typically combine a visit to Stirling Castle with the National Wallace Monument, and—in some instances—the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre. Some day tours from Edinburgh stop at the monument, as well as at Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Blackness Castle, and regional whisky distilleries. Multi-day tours from Edinburgh incorporate even more sights across the Highlands, such as Loch Ness and Glencoe.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The National Wallace Monument is a must for history-keen travelers.
- Bring a camera to capture views from the open-air gallery at the top of the monument.
- Access to the top is via a steep and narrow spiral staircase, making it unsuitable for visitors with mobility issues.
- There is parking, a gift shop, cafe, and restrooms on site.
How to Get There
The National Wallace Monument is situated on Abbey Craig Hill, about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) north of Stirling. Bus services 52 and UL (Unilink) depart from opposite Stirling Railway Station and stop outside the monument. Free shuttle buses run between the parking lot and the monument, which is a 15-minute walk up a steep hill.
When to Get There
The National Wallace Monument is open year-round, with longer opening hours between March and October. In summer, come in the early morning to avoid the crowds. Visibility is usually better in the morning, too.
What to See Inside the Monument
On the monument's main level is the Hall of Arms, which documents Wallace’s rise through an animated video and features exhibits. The second level, the Hall of Heroes, is filled with busts of eminent Scots, from poet Robert Burns to missionary Mary Slessor. On the third level, the Royal Chamber chronicles the 13th-century Battle of Stirling Bridge. At the crown, visitors can soak up views of Stirling, the Forth Valley, and the Pentland Hills.
Address: Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Rd, Stirling FK9 5LF, Scotland
Admission: Varies
3 Tours and Activities to Experience National Wallace Monument
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Stirling Private City Tour
Our Stirling city tours are private and completely tailor-made to your interests and needs.
In all our tours we take time to visit Stirling Castle and the Old Town in the morning, but we will design a custom-made itinerary for the rest of the day specifically for you. We will guide you around Stirling, tell you about its history and legends, and make sure you enjoy a perfect day in our town.
If you wish to tell us about any particular thing you'd like to see on your visit, don't hesitate to contact us. Otherwise, see you in Stirling for an amazing day out!
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From
$644.78
per group
From
$644.78
per group
1-day Private Tour with Rob Roy, Wallace and Jamie Fraser
Did you know that castles can be movie stars too? Doune Castle managed to play Castle Leoch in Outlander, Winterfell in Game of Thrones and Camelot in the classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail movie.
But that's just the beginning! Have a dram (or a full tour) at Deanston Distillery, take a walk in picturesque Callander and discover great Scottish outdoors and Rob Roy's grave in Balquhidder.
If you're a big fan of Claire and Jamie, you can get lost in the gardens of Versailles (well, actually Drummond Castle Gardens...), before we visit William Wallace at his monument and hear about his greatest victory.
Hop on a perfect day trip with Brambling Bus - what are you waiting for?!
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From
$835.45
per group
From
$835.45
per group
William Wallace Tour
Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest figures in Scottish history with your own private tour.
Take in the monument at his birthplace, then on to the magnificent Paisley Abbey where its widely believed he was educated by the monks as a boy. While in the Abbey you'll also see the tomb of King Robert III of Scotland.
Paisley offers some of the best establishments for food in the west coast of Scotland so after the Abbey we have a break so you can pop into one of them for lunch.
After lunch we take the trip to Stirling, on the route you'll pass the imposing Stirling Castle on the way to the National Wallace monument. Learn all about Wallace and even pose with his sword as you work your way up the monument to the breathtaking viewpoint at the top of the monument that has 360 degree views of the surrounding area.
Next its down to the impressive Dumbarton Castle, this is where was held after his capture before being sent to London for his trial, torture and execution.
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From
$543.04
per group
From
$543.04
per group
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