William Wallace Statue, Aberdeen
A towering bronze tribute to Scotland’s freedom fighter, standing proud in the heart of Aberdeen with stirring words of liberty carved in stone.
Standing proudly on Union Terrace in Aberdeen, this striking bronze statue of Sir William Wallace commemorates Scotland’s legendary freedom fighter. Erected in 1888 and sculpted by William Grant Stevenson, the monument features powerful inscriptions from Wallace’s life and speeches, set against a granite pedestal. Positioned opposite His Majesty’s Theatre and near Union Terrace Gardens, it’s a stirring tribute to courage and national identity in the heart of the Granite City.
A brief summary to William Wallace Statue
- Union Terrace, Aberdeen, AB10 1NP, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photographs of the statue and its inscriptions.
- Take time to read all four inscriptions on the pedestal; they tell Wallace’s story and capture his defiant spirit in his own words.
- Combine your visit with a walk through nearby Union Terrace Gardens for a peaceful green space and views of the city’s historic architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Aberdeen city centre, follow Union Street east and turn onto Union Terrace; the statue is clearly visible on the left, a short walk from Union Square and the main shopping district.
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Public Transport
Take any city centre bus to stops near Union Terrace or His Majesty’s Theatre; from there, the statue is a few minutes’ walk along the main thoroughfare, well signposted and easily accessible.
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Train
From Aberdeen railway station, walk along Guild Street and then Union Terrace; the statue is about 10–15 minutes away on foot, on a level, well-paved route through the city centre.
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Car
Drive to the city centre and use nearby public car parks; the statue is in a pedestrian-friendly area, so park a short distance away and walk the final stretch along Union Terrace.
William Wallace Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about William Wallace Statue
A Hero in Bronze and Stone
Rising above George Square on Union Terrace, the William Wallace Statue is a commanding bronze figure of Scotland’s iconic warrior, sword raised high. Sculpted by William Grant Stevenson and unveiled in 1888, the statue captures Wallace in a moment of defiance, a fitting tribute to the man who led the resistance during the Wars of Scottish Independence. The figure stands atop a substantial red granite pedestal, a material that ties the monument to Aberdeen’s own identity as the Granite City, where local stone and craftsmanship combine to create a lasting civic landmark.Words of Liberty and Defiance
The pedestal is inscribed with four powerful texts that tell Wallace’s story and echo his unwavering commitment to freedom. On the south face, his defiant reply to English friars before the Battle of Stirling Bridge is carved: “Go back to your masters, and tell them that we came not here to treat, but to fight and set Scotland free.” The east side recounts his role in driving the English from Scotland and restoring independence, while the north bears his famous words at his mock trial in London: “To Edward, King of England, I cannot be a traitor. I owe him no allegiance…” The west side includes his uncle’s proverb on liberty, a personal reflection that underscores the moral core of his struggle.A Symbol of National Identity
More than a simple monument, the statue is a focal point for Scottish heritage and pride. Funded by a bequest from John Steill, a Scottish patriot who opposed the Union, it was erected during a period of growing national awareness in the late 19th century. Its prominent position opposite His Majesty’s Theatre and near Union Terrace Gardens ensures it is seen by thousands, serving as both a historical reminder and a cultural touchstone. For visitors, it offers a tangible connection to the story of Scotland’s fight for independence and the enduring legacy of one of its most celebrated figures.Experiencing the Monument Today
The statue is easily accessible in the city centre, surrounded by the buzz of Aberdeen’s streets yet set in a space that invites quiet reflection. It’s a natural stop on a walk through the city, whether you’re exploring nearby historic buildings, enjoying the gardens, or simply pausing to read the inscriptions. The surrounding area is well served by footpaths and public transport, making it simple to include in a broader tour of Aberdeen’s landmarks. While the statue itself is an outdoor sculpture, its presence adds depth to any visit, blending history, art, and civic memory in a single, powerful form.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Aberdeen Sign
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Union Terrace Gardens
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Cowdray Hall
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Aberdeen Art Gallery
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General Gordon Statue
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Slains
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Huntfun Aberdeen
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St. Nicholas Cemetery
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St Nicholas Bandstand
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Bon Accord Aberdeen
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The Grn
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Marischal Square
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The Tunnels
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Provost Skene's House
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Essential places to dine
The Terrace Bar and Café
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THE BISTRO
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Noose & Monkey
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Nargile Restaurant
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BioCafe
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Wild Boar
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Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
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Chaophraya
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Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
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Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
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The Tippling House
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Chop Grill & Bar
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Ninety-Nine
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Monsoona Healthy Indian cuisine
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Café Bohème
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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White Stuff Aberdeen
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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EDIT
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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The Closet
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Monumental
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
