Bon Scott Statue, Kirriemuir: A Rock Legend's Scottish Tribute
Celebrate the legendary AC/DC frontman Bon Scott at his striking bronze statue in Kirriemuir, where rock meets Scottish heritage.
The Bon Scott Statue in Kirriemuir, Scotland, is a life-sized bronze tribute to the iconic AC/DC frontman born here in 1946. Unveiled in 2016, the statue captures Scott’s dynamic stage presence with a microphone in one hand and bagpipes in the other, symbolizing his Scottish roots. Located in a memorial garden on Bellies Brae, it serves as a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide and a focal point during the annual BonFest music festival celebrating his legacy.
A brief summary to Bon Scott Statue
- Bellies Brae, Kirriemuir, DD8 4BJ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during BonFest in early spring for live music and a vibrant festival atmosphere celebrating Bon Scott’s legacy.
- Bring a camera for iconic photo opportunities with the detailed statue and the memorial garden’s mosaic base.
- Explore the nearby 'Den' area for a pleasant picnic spot and natural surroundings after visiting the statue.
- Check weather conditions as the statue and garden are outdoor sites; dress accordingly for Scottish weather variability.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Kirriemuir with nearby towns such as Forfar and Dundee, with travel times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. A single fare typically costs between £3 and £6.
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Car
Driving to the statue is straightforward via Bellies Brae, with parking available near the site. Travel times from Dundee are approximately 30 minutes. Note that the car park can be busy during BonFest, so plan accordingly. Parking is free.
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Walking
For visitors staying in Kirriemuir town center, the statue is accessible by a 15 to 20-minute walk along gently sloping terrain. The path is paved and suitable for most walkers, including those with moderate mobility.
Bon Scott Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Bon Scott Statue
Origins of a Rock Icon in Kirriemuir
Bon Scott, born Ronald Belford Scott in 1946, spent his early childhood in the small Scottish town of Kirriemuir before emigrating with his family to Australia at age six. Though his fame as AC/DC’s charismatic lead singer was forged in Australia, his Scottish heritage remained a proud part of his identity. His father’s involvement in the local pipe band and the town’s cultural backdrop influenced Scott’s lifelong connection to Kirriemuir, which is now immortalized by the statue that stands at the town’s entrance.A Monument Crafted by Fans and Artist Alike
The idea for a permanent memorial emerged from Kirriemuir’s BonFest, an annual music festival honoring Scott’s legacy. Funded by a global crowdfunding campaign that raised £45,000, the statue was created by renowned sculptor John McKenna over three years. Unveiled in 2016 by former AC/DC bassist Mark Evans, the life-sized bronze figure depicts Scott mid-performance, holding a microphone high in one hand and bagpipes in the other—a nod to his Scottish roots and rock ’n’ roll spirit. The statue rests on a mosaic inscribed with lyrics from AC/DC’s “Let There Be Rock,” linking the monument to Scott’s musical impact.The Memorial Garden and Symbolism
Situated on Bellies Brae, the statue is the centerpiece of a memorial garden designed as a welcoming gateway to Kirriemuir. At its base, two sealed scrolls contain the names of all who contributed to the fundraising effort, symbolizing the collective passion of fans worldwide. The garden offers a contemplative space where visitors can reflect on Scott’s life and legacy amid the beauty of the Scottish landscape.BonFest: Celebrating a Lasting Legacy
Each year, BonFest draws bands and fans from around the globe to Kirriemuir to celebrate Scott’s music and influence. The statue becomes a hub of activity during the festival, hosting performances and serving as a popular photo spot for attendees. This event not only honors Scott’s memory but also strengthens the cultural identity of Kirriemuir as the birthplace of a rock legend.Artistic Details and Cultural Significance
The statue’s intricate details, including Scott’s tattoos and attire, reflect the artist’s dedication to authenticity. The inclusion of bagpipes alongside the microphone uniquely blends Scott’s Scottish heritage with his rock persona, making the statue a distinctive landmark. It stands as a testament to the enduring connection between Kirriemuir and its most famous son, bridging music history with local pride.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Bon Scott Statue find a tranquil yet inspiring setting, perfect for reflection and photography. The statue’s location near a car park and the town center makes it accessible, while the surrounding garden provides a peaceful ambiance. Whether a devoted fan or a curious traveler, the site offers a meaningful glimpse into the life of a rock icon and the town that shaped him.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scott Wilson Memorial
7.0 km
A powerful granite tribute to Antarctic explorers Captain Scott and Dr Edward Wilson, set in the peaceful hills of Glen Prosen near Kirriemuir.
Airlie Monument
7.6 km
Historic Airlie Monument on Tulloch Hill offers breathtaking views and honors the 9th Earl of Airlie’s legacy in scenic Angus.
Balmashanner Monument
8.4 km
A solemn Scottish Baronial tower honoring Forfar’s WWI heroes with breathtaking views over Angus countryside.
Black Watch Memorial
19.5 km
A solemn bronze tribute on Dundee’s heights honoring the brave men of the Black Watch who sacrificed their lives in WWII.
DD Tours
22.0 km
Explore Scotland's beauty with DD Tours, offering personalized experiences and expert guides for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting land.
Cox's Stack
22.1 km
Scotland’s tallest surviving industrial chimney, Cox’s Stack towers over Dundee as a proud symbol of its jute manufacturing heritage.
Balgarthno Stone Circle
22.4 km
Bronze Age stones standing sentinel over Dundee's prehistoric past, a timeless circle of mystery and ancient wisdom.
Dundee War Memorial
22.5 km
A dignified memorial on elevated ground in Dundee, honoring local heroes with panoramic city views and a serene atmosphere.
Wishart's Arch
23.1 km
The last standing gateway of Dundee’s 16th-century city walls, echoing tales of plague, faith, and resilience.
Robert Burns Statue
23.3 km
Discover Dundee’s unique Robert Burns Statue, a rare Scottish tribute to the nation’s beloved poet, linking local pride with global heritage.
Oor Wullie Bronze Statue
23.4 km
Celebrate Scotland’s cheeky comic hero with a visit to the iconic Oor Wullie Bronze Statue in Dundee’s vibrant city centre.
Dundemo
23.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dundee at Dundemo, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories come together in a lively atmosphere.
Dundee Historic Environment Trust
23.6 km
Explore Dundee's rich heritage at the Dundee Historic Environment Trust, where history and environmental conservation come together.
Metalurgey
23.6 km
Explore your creativity at Metalurgey, Dundee's top tattoo and piercing shop, where artistry meets personal expression for everyone.
St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
23.6 km
Experience the best of Scottish craft beer and delicious local cuisine at St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall in Dundee, a must-visit for food and drink lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
RSPB Scotland Loch of Kinnordy
2.5 km
A tranquil Scottish wetland sanctuary rich in wildlife, offering accessible trails and stunning views of ospreys, otters, and beavers.
Glamis Castle
5.7 km
Explore Glamis Castle, a majestic Scottish fortress rich in royal history, ghostly legends, and stunning gardens nestled in Angus countryside.
Ferngreen Garden Centre
7.0 km
Independent garden centre in Forfar offering plants, birdcare, sundries, and a peaceful shopping experience amidst greenery.
Forfar Meffan Museum
7.7 km
Discover Forfar’s rich history and vibrant art scene in a welcoming museum and gallery housed in a historic 1898 building.
Ogilvy Vodka
9.4 km
Discover Scotland’s first single-estate potato vodka crafted from farm to bottle at Ogilvy Spirits Distillery in scenic Angus.
Restenneth Priory
9.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Restenneth Priory, a sacred site bridging Pictish origins and medieval Augustinian heritage in scenic Angus.
Balintore Castle (undergoing restoration)
10.9 km
Victorian Scottish Baronial castle near Kirriemuir, blending historic grandeur with ongoing restoration in scenic Angus moorland.
Reekie Linn Waterfall
13.1 km
Discover the breathtaking twin cascades of Reekie Linn, a dramatic waterfall framed by ancient woodland and a deep gorge in scenic Angus, Scotland.
Alyth Museum
14.8 km
Discover the heritage and stories of Perthshire and Angus at Alyth Museum, the vibrant hub of the Cateran Ecomuseum.
Carrot Hill
15.1 km
A serene hilltop park near Forfar offering panoramic views over Strathmore Valley and the Cairngorms beyond.
Tealing Earth House
15.8 km
Discover the mysterious Iron Age souterrain and historic 16th-century dovecot nestled in tranquil rural Dundee.
Pitmuies Gardens
18.6 km
Discover the timeless charm of Pitmuies Gardens—historic walled gardens, diverse plants, and tranquil river walks near Forfar.
Crombie Country Park
19.3 km
Explore 200 acres of woodland trails, scenic loch views, and family-friendly outdoor fun at Crombie Country Park in Angus.
Clatto Country Park
19.5 km
A peaceful Dundee park centered on a historic reservoir, woodland trails, and family-friendly play areas for nature lovers and walkers.
Muirhead Backmuir Community Wood
20.1 km
A peaceful 140-acre woodland sanctuary near Dundee, perfect for tranquil walks and wildlife spotting in a natural Scottish setting.
Essential places to dine
Armstrong's Bar & Restaurant
2.9 km
A warm and inviting Scottish dining experience near Glamis, blending traditional flavors with modern hospitality in the heart of Angus.
Drovers Inn Restaurant
6.6 km
Historic gastropub in Angus countryside blending rustic charm with creative Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality.
Peggy Scott's Restaurant
11.6 km
A cozy Scottish roadside restaurant offering hearty traditional fare, homemade cakes, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Angus.
Birkhill Inn
20.1 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at Birkhill Inn, where family-friendly dining meets cozy ambiance in the heart of Dundee.
Kingsway Farm - Dining & Carvery
21.3 km
Classic Dundee pub serving hearty carvery meals daily in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on King's Cross Road.
Little's Restaurant
22.0 km
A long-standing riverside restaurant in Blairgowrie, serving generous portions of classic Scottish comfort food in a warm, family-friendly setting.
The Caledonian
22.4 km
A friendly and inviting pub-restaurant in Brechin serving great food with a cozy Scottish atmosphere and moderate prices.
Gourdie Croft Beefeater
22.6 km
A family-friendly steakhouse in Dundee offering expertly grilled classics, vibrant pub vibes, and a spacious garden for all occasions.
Maze Restaurant
23.1 km
Stylish conservatory dining with serene Italian garden views at Dundee’s Landmark Hotel, serving breakfast to dinner in a relaxed, elegant setting.
The Bach
23.3 km
A vibrant New Zealand-inspired bistro in Dundee offering fresh, made-from-scratch dishes in a relaxed and unique setting.
The Barrelman
23.4 km
A vibrant Dundee bar and restaurant blending fresh Scottish flavors, craft cocktails, and live entertainment in a relaxed city centre setting.
Beiderbeckes Bistro
23.4 km
Eclectic bistro and gastropub in Dundee serving comfort food with vegan options in a lively jazz-inspired setting.
The Manchurian | Dim Sum Restaurant 翠竹軒
23.4 km
Authentic Chinese dim sum and traditional dishes served in a cozy Dundee setting with fresh ingredients and welcoming hospitality.
Porters Bar & Restaurant
23.4 km
Fresh Scottish flavors and vibrant social vibes converge at Dundee’s City Quay hotspot, Porters Bar & Restaurant.
Tahini
23.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Lebanon and the Mediterranean in Dundee’s welcoming and lively Lebanese restaurant, Tahini.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pixie Dust
0.3 km
A cozy Kirriemuir gift shop brimming with unique books, toys, and souvenirs that spark imagination and delight every visitor.
The Blue Shop
0.3 km
Discover Kirriemuir's charming newsstand, The Blue Shop, where local culture and friendly service meet in a cozy atmosphere.
Co-op Food - Kirriemuir Superstore
0.3 km
Discover convenience at Co-op Food Kirriemuir Superstore with fresh groceries, local products, and friendly service, open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM.
1st Stop 2 Shop
0.4 km
Discover convenience and local charm at 1st Stop 2 Shop in Kirriemuir, your essential stop for travel necessities and local treats.
Aestas Home and Garden
7.3 km
Discover unique home and garden furniture and gifts at Aestas Home and Garden, Forfar’s boutique destination for stylish indoor and outdoor living.
Raspberry Fields Exclusive
7.4 km
Discover unique gifts, books, and crafts in a warm, welcoming shop that captures the creative spirit of Forfar.
Quarryside Crafts with Bags of Accessories
7.6 km
Discover handcrafted handbags, pottery, and unique accessories at Quarryside Crafts, a charming gift shop in the heart of Forfar.
Poundstretcher
7.7 km
Affordable discount shopping in Forfar’s town centre, offering homewares, pet supplies, and everyday essentials with convenient hours.
B&M Store with Garden Centre
8.1 km
Explore B&M Store with Garden Centre in Forfar for unbeatable prices on essentials, home goods, and beautiful garden supplies as you travel.
Peel Farm
12.1 km
Discover the charm of Peel Farm, where artisanal coffee and homemade treats meet stunning countryside views in Kirriemuir.
Arklay St Gift Shop
21.7 km
Discover unique local treasures and handcrafted gifts at Arklay St Gift Shop, Dundee’s charming boutique for memorable souvenirs.
Little Green Dress
22.0 km
Discover stylish, carefully curated ladies' dresses in a calm, welcoming boutique setting at Little Green Dress in Brechin.
The Range, Dundee
22.0 km
A versatile homewares and lifestyle store in Dundee offering extensive products, a welcoming dog-friendly policy, and convenient shopping amenities.
Town Angels Ltd
22.1 km
Discover unique gifts, quality baby clothing, and charming toys in the heart of Brechin at Town Angels Ltd, your friendly local boutique.
MadeAt94
22.1 km
Discover unique, personalized gifts and warm family-run charm at MadeAt94, Dundee’s treasured boutique gift shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Attic Club
0.3 km
Kirriemuir’s lively upstairs venue blending music, community spirit, and memorable nights in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Stag
7.6 km
A lively and welcoming pub, restaurant, and cafe in Forfar offering hearty meals, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Drunken Monkey Sports Bar & Diner
7.6 km
A lively sports bar and diner in Forfar offering casual dining, drinks, and live sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Queen Street Tavern
7.8 km
A traditional Scottish tavern in Forfar offering hearty meals, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic stone building on Queen Street.
The Ardler Tavern
16.8 km
Historic country pub in Blairgowrie offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere for over 100 years.
Victoria Inn
21.3 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Victoria Inn, a cozy bar in Coupar Angus, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local brews.
The Snug Bar
22.4 km
A cozy, friendly bar in Dundee offering great drinks, local charm, and a welcoming atmosphere from morning till midnight.
Bridgend Bar & Lounge ( The Brig)
22.5 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Brechin offering great food, local craft beers, and vibrant live entertainment seven days a week.
BrewDog Dundee
23.3 km
A dynamic craft beer bar in Dundee blending bold brews, lively social events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
KANDY BAR & NIGHTCLUB
23.4 km
Dundee’s vibrant LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub offering lively drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city center.
Market Bar
23.4 km
Lively and affordable pub and restaurant in Dundee’s city centre, known for friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tickety Boo's
23.5 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Dundee blending historic charm with hearty food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Old Bank Bar
23.5 km
Historic Dundee pub with ornate interiors, family-friendly booths, sports screens, and lively weekend DJs in a former bank building.
Duke's Corner
23.6 km
A vibrant pub and live music venue in Dundee’s historic jute district, offering craft beers, artisan cocktails, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Pillars Bar & Lounge
23.6 km
Historic Dundee pub blending traditional charm with friendly locals, quality ales, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly