King Edward Monument at Burgh by Sands
A solitary sandstone pillar on windswept Burgh Marsh marking the final resting place of King Edward I, the Hammer of the Scots.
The King Edward Monument is a solitary sandstone pillar on Burgh Marsh near Carlisle, marking the spot where King Edward I of England died in 1307 during his campaign against Scotland. Erected originally in 1685 and renewed in the early 19th century, it commemorates Edward’s ambition to unify England and Scotland. Its remote, windswept setting on the Solway Firth border lends it a haunting and historic atmosphere.
A brief summary to King Edward Monument
- Carlisle, Burgh by Sands, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the nearby village of Burgh by Sands to explore St Michael’s Church and the modern statue of King Edward I.
- Prepare for exposed weather conditions on the marsh; bring suitable clothing and footwear.
- Combine your visit with a walk along sections of Hadrian’s Wall, which runs through the village.
- Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the monument’s dramatic setting against the expansive marsh and sky.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Carlisle to Burgh by Sands takes approximately 20-25 minutes via the A595 and B5307. Parking is limited near the monument, so use designated village parking areas. No parking directly at the monument site.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Carlisle with Burgh by Sands, with journey times around 30-40 minutes. Service frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. The bus stop in the village is a 15-minute walk from the monument.
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Walking
For walkers, a 3-4 hour round trip from Carlisle is possible via country lanes and footpaths, including parts of Hadrian’s Wall Path. Terrain is mostly flat but exposed, so suitable footwear and weather protection are recommended.
King Edward Monument location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about King Edward Monument
A Monument Rooted in Medieval History
The King Edward Monument stands on Burgh Marsh, near the village of Burgh by Sands, Cumbria, marking the place where King Edward I, known as the 'Hammer of the Scots,' died on 7 July 1307. Edward was leading a military campaign against Robert the Bruce, aiming to assert English dominance over Scotland. His death here ended a pivotal chapter in the Anglo-Scottish conflicts of the Middle Ages. The monument commemorates Edward’s legacy and his vision of uniting the two kingdoms under English rule.The Monument’s Evolution Through Centuries
The first memorial was erected in 1685, more than 350 years after Edward’s death, reflecting a later period’s interest in commemorating medieval history. The current sandstone pillar dates from around 1803, replacing the earlier structure. Positioned on the English side of the Solway Firth, the monument stands near the supposed site of Edward’s death tent. Despite some uncertainty about the exact spot, the pillar symbolizes the historical significance of the location, set against the vast, open marshland that stretches to the Scottish border.The Landscape and Atmosphere of Burgh Marsh
Burgh Marsh is a wide, flat expanse of tidal land beside the Solway Firth, historically a strategic border zone between England and Scotland. The monument’s isolated setting amid the marsh’s windswept grasses and tidal waters creates a stark, contemplative atmosphere. This solitude has earned it the nickname of England’s loneliest monument. The surrounding landscape evokes the hardships of medieval campaigning and the enduring tension of the Anglo-Scottish frontier.The Village of Burgh by Sands and Local Heritage
Nearby Burgh by Sands is a small village with deep historical roots, built along the line of Hadrian’s Wall. It features landmarks such as the church of St Michael’s, where Edward’s body was temporarily laid before burial in Westminster Abbey. The village also hosts a modern statue of Edward I, unveiled in 2007 to mark the 700th anniversary of his death. This statue, a gift from local organizations, complements the older monument and connects the community to its medieval past.Commemorative Significance and Local Lore
The King Edward Monument not only marks a historical event but also embodies local memory and legend. Stories persist that Edward wished his embalmed body to be carried into Scotland until his campaign succeeded, though historically he was buried in London. The monument’s remote location invites reflection on the passage of time and the layers of history embedded in this borderland. It stands as a testament to Edward’s enduring impact on British history and the complex relations between England and Scotland.Visitor Experience and Preservation
Visitors to the monument encounter a quiet, open landscape that contrasts with the rich historical narrative it represents. The site is accessible year-round, though its exposed nature means weather conditions can be challenging. Nearby amenities in Burgh by Sands provide a glimpse into rural Cumbrian life. The monument is maintained as a protected historical landmark, preserving the memory of a king whose ambitions shaped the course of British history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Edward Monument
0.0 km
A solitary sandstone pillar on windswept Burgh Marsh marking the final resting place of King Edward I, the Hammer of the Scots.
Guildhall Museum
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Market Cross Monument
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Westmorland Street
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop
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Courtship Maze
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Old Harbour Wall, Port of Carlisle
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Cumbria's Museum of Military Life
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Carlisle Castle
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Carlisle Cathedral
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Glasson Moss Nature Reserve
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The Sportsman Inn
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The Devils Porridge
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The Citadel
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Walby Farm Park
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Solway Coast AONB
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Bonshaw Tower
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Essential places to dine
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The Old Bank
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Thin White Duke
9.2 km
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In The Meantime
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The Last Zebra
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David's Restaurant
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Elegant British and European fine dining in a charming Victorian townhouse at the heart of Carlisle.
Solway Lounge & Garrison Bistro
10.3 km
Bright, modern bistro with home-cooked meals and local ingredients in the heart of rural Bowness-on-Solway.
The Royal Oak Inn
12.0 km
Experience authentic Cumbrian gastropub charm with hearty food and warm service in the tranquil village of Curthwaite.
Fini’s. The Restaurant at Willowbeck Lodge
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Skitby
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Hidden River Cafe
15.3 km
A charming riverside cafe in Cumbria offering locally sourced dishes in a peaceful natural setting, perfect for families, food lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
Pentonbridge Inn
19.2 km
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Kinmount Restaurant
24.8 km
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Copper Beech Restaurant
25.9 km
Experience traditional Scottish hospitality and hearty cuisine in the cozy Copper Beech Restaurant at Hetland Hall Hotel, Dumfries.
Hetland Hall Hotel
26.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Cumbria Curiosity Shop
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Explore Carlisle’s hidden gem for antiques and vintage treasures, where history and unique finds come alive in every corner.
The Lanes Shopping Centre
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A vibrant indoor shopping destination in Carlisle city centre, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Carlisle World Shop Cooperative Ltd
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Discover ethical treasures and fair trade crafts in Carlisle’s welcoming cooperative gift shop.
The Emporium
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A vibrant creative hub in Carlisle offering gifts, art supplies, painting lessons, and community events in a historic setting.
Warwick Bazaar
9.3 km
Discover Carlisle’s quirky vintage haven filled with retro treasures, eclectic curios, and a vibrant cultural vibe.
Much Love X
10.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Much Love X, a charming gift shop in Currock, Carlisle, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Suziebou
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Historic Gifts
18.1 km
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Simply Gorgeous Gifts with Scotia Framing
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The Flower Pot Gift Shop
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Vintage On The Nith
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Southerness Gift shop
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The Unicorn
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Handmade at Helen's
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Reiver
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The Joiners Arms
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The Boardroom
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The Lane Bar
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The Kings Head
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Coco Mill
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The Arcade Morgan’s Bar
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No 15, Gin bar
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Bartons Yard
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The Crescent Bar
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Yellowjacket
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Bar Solo
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
