A Tribute to the Bard: William McGonagall's Tombstone
Explore the literary legacy of William McGonagall at his tombstone in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-see for poetry lovers in Edinburgh.
Visit the resting place of William McGonagall, a unique figure in Scottish history known for his controversial poetry. Nestled within the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh, this site offers a glimpse into the life of one of the nation's most infamous poets, attracting literary enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
A brief summary to William McGonagall Tombstone
- Unnamed Road, Edinburgh, EH1 2QL, GB
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photographs.
- Combine your visit with a walking tour of the surrounding area to discover more about Edinburgh's rich literary history.
- Bring a notebook or sketchpad to capture your thoughts or draw inspiration from the serene environment.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station, exit the station and head towards the east along Market Street. Continue straight until you reach the junction with the North Bridge. Cross North Bridge and keep walking straight onto South Bridge. After a few minutes, you will reach the junction with George IV Bridge. Turn right onto George IV Bridge and walk until you see the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard on your left. Enter the cemetery and follow the paths to find William McGonagall's tombstone located towards the back of the cemetery.
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Public Transport (Bus)
From the city center, head to the nearest bus stop and take bus number 23 or 27. These buses stop near the Grassmarket area. Once you disembark, walk towards Greyfriars Kirkyard, which is located a short distance away. Enter the cemetery and navigate towards the rear to find the tombstone of William McGonagall.
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Walking from Edinburgh Castle
If you are visiting Edinburgh Castle, exit the castle grounds and walk down the Castle Esplanade. Continue onto the Royal Mile and head towards Greyfriars Church. Look for the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard, which is just off the Royal Mile. Once inside the graveyard, follow the paths to locate William McGonagall's tombstone towards the back.
Discover more about William McGonagall Tombstone
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