Martyrs' Monument, St Andrews: A Testament to Scottish Reformation Courage
A towering tribute to St Andrews’ Protestant martyrs, standing proudly as a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and Scottish Reformation history.
The Martyrs' Monument in St Andrews stands as a towering 19th-century obelisk commemorating four Protestant martyrs executed during the 16th-century Scottish Reformation. Located on The Scores with views over the Old Course and West Sands, it honors Patrick Hamilton, Henry Forrest, George Wishart, and Walter Myln, who were burned for their faith. This landmark symbolizes religious freedom and the town’s pivotal role in Scotland’s turbulent Reformation history.
A brief summary to Martyrs' Monument
- The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AT, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds, perfect for photography.
- Combine your visit with a walk along The Scores to enjoy views of the Old Course and West Sands.
- Look for Patrick Hamilton’s initials set into the cobbles nearby and the face on St Salvator’s Chapel wall.
- Join a guided historical tour starting at the monument to deepen your understanding of the Scottish Reformation.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from St Andrews town center to The Scores area; the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes with frequent daily services. Tickets cost around £2-£4. The stop is a short walk from the monument.
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Walking
From central St Andrews, the Martyrs' Monument is a 10-15 minute walk along mostly flat terrain via The Scores. The route is accessible and offers scenic views of the coastline and golf courses.
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Taxi
Local taxis from St Andrews town center take about 5-10 minutes to reach the monument. Fares typically range from £6 to £10 depending on time and traffic.
Martyrs' Monument 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Martyrs' Monument
A Symbol of Religious Conviction and Historical Struggle
The Martyrs' Monument is a prominent obelisk erected in 1842-43, designed by William Nixon, rising over ten metres tall on The Scores in St Andrews. It commemorates four men who were executed for their Protestant beliefs during the 16th-century Scottish Reformation, a period marked by intense religious conflict and transformation. These martyrs—Patrick Hamilton, Henry Forrest, George Wishart, and Walter Myln—were persecuted for challenging the Catholic Church’s authority and advocating for Protestant reforms.The Stories Behind the Monument
Patrick Hamilton, the first Protestant martyr in Scotland, was executed in 1528 after promoting Lutheran doctrines he encountered during his studies in Europe. His death by burning at the stake outside St Salvator’s Chapel left a lasting impression on the town, with his tortured face said to be imprinted on the chapel wall. Henry Forrest was executed in 1533 for possessing an English New Testament, while George Wishart was burned in 1546 for defying the Catholic Church and inspiring reformist riots. Walter Myln, who advocated for married clergy, was the last of the four to be martyred in 1558.St Andrews’ Role in the Scottish Reformation
Once home to Scotland’s largest medieval cathedral, St Andrews was a focal point for religious upheaval. The town’s university and clergy became battlegrounds for ideas that challenged the Catholic Church’s dominance. The Martyrs' Monument stands near the Royal and Ancient Golf Club, overlooking the iconic Old Course and West Sands, linking the town’s spiritual history with its global cultural significance.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The monument’s design as a tall obelisk makes it a striking landmark visible from many points along The Scores. It has featured historically on postcards and guidebooks, symbolizing the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for religious freedom. The monument also serves as a starting point for historical tours exploring St Andrews’ rich heritage, including sites connected to the Reformation and golfing legends.Legacy and Contemporary Importance
Today, the Martyrs' Monument remains a powerful reminder of Scotland’s turbulent religious past and the enduring values of faith and conviction. It attracts visitors interested in history, religion, and culture, offering a tangible link to the sacrifices that helped shape modern Scotland. The monument’s presence near key town landmarks underscores St Andrews’ layered identity as both a spiritual and cultural hub.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Maintained as a cherished historic landmark, the monument is accessible year-round and is often visited alongside nearby heritage sites. Its location provides scenic views and a contemplative atmosphere, inviting reflection on the profound historical events it commemorates. Informational plaques and guided tours enhance understanding of the monument’s significance within the broader narrative of the Scottish Reformation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Martyrs' Monument
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A towering tribute to St Andrews’ Protestant martyrs, standing proudly as a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and Scottish Reformation history.
Swilcan Bridge
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Claypotts Castle
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Newark Castle
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Dundee Maritime Trail
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RRS Discovery
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Discovery Point and RRS Discovery
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V&A Dundee
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HMS Unicorn
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Slessor Gardens
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Dundee Science Centre
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Abandon Ship
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Metalurgey
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St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
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Unmissable attractions to see
The R&A World Golf Museum
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Old Course
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The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews
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Old Course Shop, St Andrews Links
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The St Andrews Golf Club
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Links Golf St Andrews
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NPH Cinema
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Topping & Company Booksellers of St Andrews
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St Andrews Harbour Trust
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St Andrews Ladies' Putting Club
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University of St Andrews
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Lower College Hall - University of St Andrews
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Historic neo-Jacobean auditorium nestled in St Salvator’s Quadrangle, blending centuries of academic tradition with vibrant university life.
St Salvator's Chapel
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Historic Late Gothic chapel at the heart of St Andrews University, rich in religious heritage and architectural beauty.
St Andrews
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Market St
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Essential places to dine
The Bothy St Andrews
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The Saint Bar & Kitchen
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The Peat Inn Restaurant with Rooms
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Urban Beach - The Glass Pavilion
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Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar
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The Ship Inn & Waterfront Restaurant
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Bruach Bar
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The Fort
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Forgan's Broughty Ferry
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Collinsons Restaurant
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Meze Grill
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Orchid Restaurant @ Gulistan House
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The Rockies Restaurant
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The Dory Bistro & Gallery
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Craig Millar @ 16 West End
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Gift Gallery
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Taste of Scotland Gifts and Souvenirs
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Bonkers Gift Shop St Andrews
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Ostara by Pretty Things
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The Scottish Shop
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The Original Factory Shop (Cupar)
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Hidden Gem Gifts
13.4 km
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Lulu & M
14.4 km
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Bella Mella
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Gibbles Gifts Cards & Home
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Funky Scottish
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Love Your Sparkle Boutique
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The Cheesery - Dundee Cheese Shop
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Quirky Coo
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fisherman's Tavern
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The Anchor Bar
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The Royal Arch Bar & Bistro
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The Gunners Bar
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Occidental Bar
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Nether Inn
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Draffens
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The Salty Dog
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The Pillars Bar & Lounge
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Trades House
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The Phoenix
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Tickety Boo's
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Market Bar
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KANDY BAR & NIGHTCLUB
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
