David Hume Statue on Edinburgh's Royal Mile
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
The David Hume Statue, located at 379-381 High Street in Edinburgh, is a striking bronze monument portraying the Scottish Enlightenment philosopher in classical Greek attire. Erected in 1997 outside the High Court, the statue is famous for its polished toe, rubbed by visitors for good luck and wisdom. The monument commemorates Hume’s profound influence on philosophy, history, and economics, while also sparking debate due to his controversial views on race.
A brief summary to David Hume Statue
- 379-381 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1PW, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Avoid rubbing the statue’s toe excessively to prevent damage; appreciate the tradition but respect the artwork.
- Take a moment to view the Helios sculpture behind the statue, symbolizing enlightenment and anti-intellectualism.
- Visit during quieter times early morning or late evening to enjoy the statue without crowds.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like St Giles’ Cathedral and the Heart of Midlothian mosaic.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36, which run frequently from Edinburgh city center to stops near the Royal Mile. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00. Note that buses can be busy during peak hours.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams to Princes Street stop, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk downhill along the Royal Mile to the statue. The tram ride costs about £6.50 from the airport or £1.80 within the city. Walking terrain is paved but uneven in places.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £5-£8. This option is convenient for travelers with limited mobility or time constraints.
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Walking
If staying in Edinburgh’s Old Town or nearby, walking to the statue is ideal. The route involves cobbled streets and some uneven surfaces, taking 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. Suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.
David Hume Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about David Hume Statue
A Tribute to a Scottish Enlightenment Giant
The David Hume Statue stands prominently on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, outside the High Court building at 379-381 High Street. Sculpted by Alexander "Sandy" Stoddart and unveiled in 1997, the statue depicts Hume as an ancient Greek philosopher, a classical artistic choice that contrasts with his 18th-century Scottish identity. This nine-foot bronze figure reclines thoughtfully, his right foot’s big toe extending over the plinth’s edge, now polished to a golden sheen from centuries of visitors rubbing it for luck or wisdom. Hume’s legacy as a pioneering empiricist philosopher, historian, economist, and skeptic is deeply embedded in Edinburgh’s intellectual heritage, marking him as one of the most influential figures of the Scottish Enlightenment.Philosophical Legacy and Controversies
David Hume (1711–1776) was a central figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, a period of remarkable intellectual and scientific advancement. His philosophy emphasized empirical observation and skepticism, challenging established religious and metaphysical doctrines. Hume’s writings on human nature, government, and economics have had enduring influence worldwide. However, his legacy is complicated by his documented racist views, particularly in his essay "Of National Characters," where he expressed beliefs in the inherent inferiority of non-white races. These views have sparked ongoing debates about how to reconcile his intellectual contributions with his problematic opinions, prompting discussions about the statue’s role in public memory and historical representation.Local Traditions and Visitor Experience
The statue has become a beloved local landmark and tourist attraction, with a unique tradition of visitors rubbing Hume’s toe for good fortune. This ritual, ironically, contrasts with Hume’s strong opposition to superstition. The statue’s location outside the High Court has also led to folklore that defendants might touch the toe for luck in their legal cases. Beyond the toe, visitors are encouraged to look behind the statue to see Stoddart’s depiction of Helios, the Greek god of enlightenment, whose head is encircled by snakes symbolizing the fight against anti-intellectualism. The statue’s presence on the Royal Mile situates it amid Edinburgh’s rich historical and cultural tapestry, near landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral and the Heart of Midlothian mosaic.Historical Context and Commemoration
Hume was born and died in Edinburgh, spending much of his life in the city’s Old Town and New Town. Despite his profound impact on philosophy and the intellectual life of Scotland, Hume faced opposition during his lifetime due to his atheism and skepticism, which cost him academic positions. His burial site is in Old Calton Cemetery, marked by a modest tomb designed by architect Robert Adam, reflecting Hume’s wish for simplicity. The statue, by contrast, is a grand public acknowledgment of his enduring influence, though it also serves as a focal point for contemporary reflections on the complexities of historical figures.Artistic and Symbolic Elements
Artist Alexander Stoddart’s design intentionally blends classical imagery with Hume’s Scottish identity, presenting him in philosopher’s robes reminiscent of ancient Greece. The statue’s size and detailed craftsmanship make it a striking visual landmark on the Royal Mile. The polished toe has become a tactile symbol of connection between visitors and Hume’s intellectual legacy, while the nearby Helios figure adds layers of meaning about enlightenment and the struggle against ignorance. The statue’s placement in front of the High Court building also underscores Hume’s engagement with law and government theory.Engaging with the Statue Today
Today, the David Hume Statue invites visitors to reflect on the Scottish Enlightenment’s profound contributions to modern thought, as well as the ongoing challenges of interpreting historical legacies. It stands as both a celebration and a conversation starter, encouraging thoughtful engagement with Hume’s philosophy and the ethical questions raised by his controversial views. The statue’s location on the bustling Royal Mile ensures it remains a vital part of Edinburgh’s cultural and historical landscape, drawing scholars, tourists, and locals alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Classical
For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
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- Solo Female Friendly
