Scott Wilson Memorial
A powerful granite tribute to Antarctic explorers Captain Scott and Dr Edward Wilson, set in the peaceful hills of Glen Prosen near Kirriemuir.
Standing in the quiet hills of Glen Prosen near Kirriemuir, the Scott Wilson Memorial is a striking granite sculpture honoring Antarctic explorers Captain Robert Falcon Scott and Dr Edward Wilson. Carved from a 30-ton block of granite, this modern monument commemorates the ill-fated 1912 Terra Nova Expedition to the South Pole. The memorial features detailed carvings of the explorers, their ponies, dogs, and penguins, alongside inscriptions of their own words. It’s a powerful tribute set in a peaceful, scenic glen, ideal for a brief but meaningful stop.
A brief summary to Scott Wilson Memorial
- Kirriemuir, DD8 4ND, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in daylight to fully appreciate the detailed carvings and read the inscriptions on the monument.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Airlie Monument for a rewarding glen walk and panoramic views.
- Bring a jacket and sturdy shoes; the exposed hillside can be windy and damp, even in summer.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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By car from Kirriemuir
From Kirriemuir, follow the A933 towards Glen Prosen for about 11 km (7 miles). The memorial is located at a bend on the road near Dykehead, opposite the car park for the Airlie Monument. The drive takes roughly 15 minutes on a narrow, winding single-track road with passing places.
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On foot from Dykehead
From the Dykehead area, follow the road into Glen Prosen for about 1.5 km (just under a mile) to reach the memorial. The route is along a quiet country road with some elevation gain; allow 20–25 minutes on foot, wearing sturdy footwear.
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Public transport
Regular bus services run between Kirriemuir and nearby towns; from Kirriemuir, a taxi can take you to the Glen Prosen road entrance for around 10–15 minutes, followed by a short walk to the memorial.
Scott Wilson Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Scott Wilson Memorial
A Monument to Antarctic Courage
Rising from the rolling hills of Glen Prosen, the Scott Wilson Memorial is a bold, contemporary tribute to Captain Robert Falcon Scott and Dr Edward Adrian Wilson, two of Britain’s most celebrated polar explorers. The sculpture marks the centenary of the 1912 Terra Nova Expedition, during which Scott and Wilson, along with their team, reached the South Pole only to perish on the return journey. Edward Wilson, a native of the area, had strong local ties, and this memorial stands as a poignant recognition of his role as chief scientist, surgeon, and artist on that fateful journey.A Sculpture Forged from Granite
Crafted from a single 30-ton block of granite, the memorial is one of the largest granite sculptures created in Scotland since the 1920s. Local sculptor Bruce Walker shaped the stone into a three-sided monument, each face carved with evocative imagery: the explorers themselves, their ponies and sled dogs, and even penguins, capturing the essence of the Antarctic landscape they sought to explore. The scale and weight of the stone give the memorial a grounded, enduring presence, reflecting the determination and sacrifice of those it commemorates.Stories Etched in Stone
The memorial is more than a visual monument; it is a narrative carved in stone. Inscriptions include excerpts from Scott’s and Wilson’s own writings, offering a direct voice from the past. These words speak of duty, endurance, and the harsh beauty of the polar regions, transforming the sculpture into a quiet, reflective space. Information panels nearby provide context about the Terra Nova Expedition, the explorers’ lives, and the local connection through Wilson’s nearby Burnside Cottage, enriching the experience for visitors who pause to read.A Quiet Glen with a Grand View
Set at a roadside bend near Dykehead, the memorial occupies a peaceful, open spot with views across Glen Prosen’s green slopes and heather-covered hills. The surrounding landscape, part of the Angus Glens, is classic Scottish upland scenery—rolling moorland, scattered trees, and distant ridges. The location is deliberately chosen for its tranquility and natural beauty, offering a contemplative atmosphere that contrasts with the drama of the Antarctic story it tells. It’s a place where history and landscape meet in quiet harmony.A Stop for History and Reflection
The Scott Wilson Memorial is not a sprawling museum or a bustling attraction, but a focused, dignified stop for those interested in exploration history and local heritage. It’s often visited in conjunction with nearby sites like the Airlie Monument, making it a natural part of a glen tour. The memorial is easily accessible from the road, with a small car park nearby, and it invites a short but meaningful pause—time to read the inscriptions, take in the views, and reflect on the courage of those who ventured into one of the planet’s most extreme environments.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scott Wilson Memorial
0.0 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
0.8 km
Historic Airlie Monument on Tulloch Hill offers breathtaking views and honors the 9th Earl of Airlie’s legacy in scenic Angus.
Balmashanner Monument
14.1 km
A solemn Scottish Baronial tower honoring Forfar’s WWI heroes with breathtaking views over Angus countryside.
Black Watch Memorial
26.4 km
A solemn bronze tribute on Dundee’s heights honoring the brave men of the Black Watch who sacrificed their lives in WWII.
Cox's Stack
28.9 km
Scotland’s tallest surviving industrial chimney, Cox’s Stack towers over Dundee as a proud symbol of its jute manufacturing heritage.
DD Tours
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Explore Scotland's beauty with DD Tours, offering personalized experiences and expert guides for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting land.
Balgarthno Stone Circle
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Dundee War Memorial
29.3 km
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Wishart's Arch
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Robert Burns Statue
30.3 km
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Oor Wullie Bronze Statue
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Celebrate Scotland’s cheeky comic hero with a visit to the iconic Oor Wullie Bronze Statue in Dundee’s vibrant city centre.
Dundemo
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dundee at Dundemo, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories come together in a lively atmosphere.
Dundee Historic Environment Trust
30.5 km
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Metalurgey
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St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
30.6 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
Bon Scott Statue
7.0 km
Celebrate the legendary AC/DC frontman Bon Scott at his striking bronze statue in Kirriemuir, where rock meets Scottish heritage.
Balintore Castle (undergoing restoration)
8.2 km
Victorian Scottish Baronial castle near Kirriemuir, blending historic grandeur with ongoing restoration in scenic Angus moorland.
Ferngreen Garden Centre
12.0 km
Independent garden centre in Forfar offering plants, birdcare, sundries, and a peaceful shopping experience amidst greenery.
Glamis Castle
12.6 km
Explore Glamis Castle, a majestic Scottish fortress rich in royal history, ghostly legends, and stunning gardens nestled in Angus countryside.
Forfar Meffan Museum
13.0 km
Discover Forfar’s rich history and vibrant art scene in a welcoming museum and gallery housed in a historic 1898 building.
Reekie Linn Waterfall
13.5 km
Discover the breathtaking twin cascades of Reekie Linn, a dramatic waterfall framed by ancient woodland and a deep gorge in scenic Angus, Scotland.
Restenneth Priory
14.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Restenneth Priory, a sacred site bridging Pictish origins and medieval Augustinian heritage in scenic Angus.
Ogilvy Vodka
16.3 km
Discover Scotland’s first single-estate potato vodka crafted from farm to bottle at Ogilvy Spirits Distillery in scenic Angus.
Alyth Museum
17.3 km
Discover the heritage and stories of Perthshire and Angus at Alyth Museum, the vibrant hub of the Cateran Ecomuseum.
Corrie Fee
18.8 km
A breathtaking glacial amphitheatre in Scotland’s Cairngorms, rich in rare alpine flora and dramatic natural beauty.
The Caterthuns
18.8 km
Explore the twin Iron Age hill forts of the Caterthuns, where ancient earthworks meet stunning panoramic views of Angus countryside.
Brechin Castle Centre
20.5 km
Explore 70 acres of gardens, woodland trails, and family fun at Brechin Castle Centre, blending retail, dining, and outdoor adventure in Angus.
Invermark Castle
21.0 km
A towering 16th-century Scottish tower house guarding Glen Esk’s wild beauty with historic strength and dramatic mountain views.
Carrot Hill
21.8 km
A serene hilltop park near Forfar offering panoramic views over Strathmore Valley and the Cairngorms beyond.
Pitmuies Gardens
22.3 km
Discover the timeless charm of Pitmuies Gardens—historic walled gardens, diverse plants, and tranquil river walks near Forfar.
Essential places to dine
Drovers Inn Restaurant
5.8 km
Historic gastropub in Angus countryside blending rustic charm with creative Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality.
Armstrong's Bar & Restaurant
9.7 km
A warm and inviting Scottish dining experience near Glamis, blending traditional flavors with modern hospitality in the heart of Angus.
Peggy Scott's Restaurant
12.8 km
A cozy Scottish roadside restaurant offering hearty traditional fare, homemade cakes, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Angus.
The Caledonian
22.8 km
A friendly and inviting pub-restaurant in Brechin serving great food with a cozy Scottish atmosphere and moderate prices.
The Tuck Inn
24.3 km
A cozy British restaurant in Edzell serving hearty meals, desserts, and ice cream in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Little's Restaurant
24.3 km
A long-standing riverside restaurant in Blairgowrie, serving generous portions of classic Scottish comfort food in a warm, family-friendly setting.
Birkhill Inn
26.7 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at Birkhill Inn, where family-friendly dining meets cozy ambiance in the heart of Dundee.
Kingsway Farm - Dining & Carvery
28.2 km
Classic Dundee pub serving hearty carvery meals daily in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on King's Cross Road.
Gourdie Croft Beefeater
29.2 km
A family-friendly steakhouse in Dundee offering expertly grilled classics, vibrant pub vibes, and a spacious garden for all occasions.
Maze Restaurant
29.7 km
Stylish conservatory dining with serene Italian garden views at Dundee’s Landmark Hotel, serving breakfast to dinner in a relaxed, elegant setting.
The Restaurant at Meikleour Arms
29.9 km
Classic 19th-century inn in scenic Meikleour serving award-winning Franco-Scottish country cuisine with estate-sourced produce in a warm, rustic setting.
The Bach
30.2 km
A vibrant New Zealand-inspired bistro in Dundee offering fresh, made-from-scratch dishes in a relaxed and unique setting.
The Barrelman
30.3 km
A vibrant Dundee bar and restaurant blending fresh Scottish flavors, craft cocktails, and live entertainment in a relaxed city centre setting.
Beiderbeckes Bistro
30.3 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
30.4 km
Authentic Chinese dim sum and traditional dishes served in a cozy Dundee setting with fresh ingredients and welcoming hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Co-op Food - Kirriemuir Superstore
6.6 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.
Pixie Dust
6.7 km
A cozy Kirriemuir gift shop brimming with unique books, toys, and souvenirs that spark imagination and delight every visitor.
The Blue Shop
7.2 km
Discover Kirriemuir's charming newsstand, The Blue Shop, where local culture and friendly service meet in a cozy atmosphere.
1st Stop 2 Shop
7.3 km
Discover convenience and local charm at 1st Stop 2 Shop in Kirriemuir, your essential stop for travel necessities and local treats.
Raspberry Fields Exclusive
12.4 km
Discover unique gifts, books, and crafts in a warm, welcoming shop that captures the creative spirit of Forfar.
Peel Farm
12.6 km
Discover the charm of Peel Farm, where artisanal coffee and homemade treats meet stunning countryside views in Kirriemuir.
Aestas Home and Garden
12.7 km
Discover unique home and garden furniture and gifts at Aestas Home and Garden, Forfar’s boutique destination for stylish indoor and outdoor living.
Poundstretcher
13.0 km
Affordable discount shopping in Forfar’s town centre, offering homewares, pet supplies, and everyday essentials with convenient hours.
Quarryside Crafts with Bags of Accessories
13.0 km
Discover handcrafted handbags, pottery, and unique accessories at Quarryside Crafts, a charming gift shop in the heart of Forfar.
B&M Store with Garden Centre
13.4 km
Explore B&M Store with Garden Centre in Forfar for unbeatable prices on essentials, home goods, and beautiful garden supplies as you travel.
Little Green Dress
22.4 km
Discover stylish, carefully curated ladies' dresses in a calm, welcoming boutique setting at Little Green Dress in Brechin.
Town Angels Ltd
22.5 km
Discover unique gifts, quality baby clothing, and charming toys in the heart of Brechin at Town Angels Ltd, your friendly local boutique.
Edzell Tweed Warehouse - The Tweedie
24.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan gifts, local farm produce, and a welcoming café experience in the heart of Edzell village.
Arklay St Gift Shop
28.7 km
Discover unique local treasures and handcrafted gifts at Arklay St Gift Shop, Dundee’s charming boutique for memorable souvenirs.
The Range, Dundee
28.9 km
A versatile homewares and lifestyle store in Dundee offering extensive products, a welcoming dog-friendly policy, and convenient shopping amenities.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Attic Club
6.7 km
Kirriemuir’s lively upstairs venue blending music, community spirit, and memorable nights in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Stag
12.8 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
12.8 km
A lively sports bar and diner in Forfar offering casual dining, drinks, and live sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Queen Street Tavern
13.0 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
21.4 km
Historic country pub in Blairgowrie offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere for over 100 years.
Bridgend Bar & Lounge ( The Brig)
23.2 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Brechin offering great food, local craft beers, and vibrant live entertainment seven days a week.
Victoria Inn
25.4 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
29.3 km
A cozy, friendly bar in Dundee offering great drinks, local charm, and a welcoming atmosphere from morning till midnight.
BrewDog Dundee
30.2 km
A dynamic craft beer bar in Dundee blending bold brews, lively social events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
KANDY BAR & NIGHTCLUB
30.3 km
Dundee’s vibrant LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub offering lively drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city center.
Market Bar
30.3 km
Lively and affordable pub and restaurant in Dundee’s city centre, known for friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tickety Boo's
30.4 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Dundee blending historic charm with hearty food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Old Bank Bar
30.4 km
Historic Dundee pub with ornate interiors, family-friendly booths, sports screens, and lively weekend DJs in a former bank building.
Duke's Corner
30.5 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 Tinsmith
30.5 km
A lively gastropub in Dundee blending award-winning food, extensive drinks, live sports, and vibrant social events in a welcoming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Royal Night Club
13.0 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
The Gig
24.8 km
Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
30.2 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
OUT Nightclub
30.2 km
A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.
Private Eyes
30.3 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
Rewind dundee
30.4 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.
Club Tropicana & Venga
30.4 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
Fat Sams
30.4 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
AURA Nightclub
30.4 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Afro Beats
30.4 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
Decades Bar & Nightclub
30.7 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Underground
30.7 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
De Vitos Nightclub
33.3 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
34.4 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Club One
44.7 km
Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Club One, a lively nightclub offering late-night and daytime parties in the city center.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
