Robert Fergusson Statue on Canongate, Edinburgh
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
The Robert Fergusson Statue stands proudly on Canongate in Edinburgh, commemorating the influential 18th-century Scottish poet whose vivid works inspired Robert Burns. Positioned near Canongate Kirk and the poet's grave, the bronze sculpture captures Fergusson’s joyful stride, reflecting his vibrant life and lasting literary legacy despite his tragically short life.
A brief summary to Robert Fergusson Statue
- 145 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8BN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the nearby Canongate Kirkyard to see the grave of Robert Fergusson, marked by the memorial stone commissioned by Robert Burns.
- Take time to read engraved lines from Fergusson’s poems embedded in the pavement near the statue for an immersive literary experience.
- Explore the surrounding Royal Mile area to discover other literary landmarks connected to Edinburgh’s rich cultural history.
- Consider visiting during quieter hours to fully appreciate the statue’s details and the tranquil atmosphere of Canongate Kirkyard.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city centre, which stop near Canongate. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes, with frequent service throughout the day. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00 GBP. Note that buses may be busy during peak hours.
-
Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a 20-minute walk along the Royal Mile brings you directly to the statue. The route is mostly flat with cobblestone surfaces, suitable for most walkers but may be uneven in places.
-
Taxi
A taxi ride from central Edinburgh takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, with fares typically between £6-£10 GBP. Taxis offer door-to-door convenience, especially useful for visitors with mobility concerns.
Robert Fergusson Statue location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about Robert Fergusson Statue
A Tribute to a Scottish Literary Luminary
The Robert Fergusson Statue, located at 145 Canongate in Edinburgh, pays homage to one of Scotland’s most gifted poets of the 18th century. Born in Edinburgh in 1750, Fergusson’s poetry vividly captured the spirit and social life of the city during the Scottish Enlightenment. Though his life was cut short at just 24, his work left an indelible mark on Scottish literature, profoundly influencing Robert Burns and others who followed.Artistic Representation and Location
This bronze statue depicts Fergusson walking with a book in hand and a joyful expression, symbolizing his lively personality and creative energy. It stands prominently on the Royal Mile, near Dunbar’s Close and the entrance to Canongate Kirkyard, where Fergusson is buried. The statue’s placement invites visitors to reflect on the poet’s connection to Edinburgh’s Old Town and its vibrant cultural history.Fergusson’s Life and Legacy
Educated at the University of St Andrews, Fergusson began publishing poetry in the early 1770s, writing in both English and Scots. His works, such as the celebrated poem "Auld Reekie," offer a vivid, affectionate, and sometimes satirical portrait of Edinburgh life. Despite his promising career, Fergusson suffered a tragic decline in health after a head injury, leading to his untimely death in an Edinburgh asylum in 1774. His grave was originally unmarked until Robert Burns, inspired by Fergusson’s talent, commissioned a memorial stone and wrote the epitaph.The Statue’s Cultural Significance
Unveiled in 2004, the statue was created by sculptor David Annand following a public competition. It stands as a testament not only to Fergusson’s literary achievements but also to the enduring spirit of Scottish vernacular poetry. The statue is part of Edinburgh’s rich tapestry of monuments celebrating its literary heritage, complementing nearby landmarks such as the Canongate Kirk and the Scott Monument.Engagement with the Surroundings
Visitors to the statue can also explore Canongate Kirkyard, where Fergusson’s grave lies, marked by the stone funded by Burns. The area is steeped in history, with connections to other notable Scots and the broader narrative of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The statue’s lively depiction encourages a personal connection, inviting visitors to imagine the poet strolling through the streets he immortalized in verse.Continuing Inspiration and Recognition
Fergusson’s influence extends beyond his lifetime, inspiring poets and writers such as Robert Louis Stevenson, who admired Fergusson’s work deeply. The statue and grave serve as focal points for literary pilgrimage, celebrating a poet whose brief but brilliant career helped shape Scotland’s cultural identity and whose voice continues to resonate in Scottish literature today.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Fergusson Statue
0.0 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Burns Monument
0.2 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.4 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.4 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Queen Mary's Bath House
0.4 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.5 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.5 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.5 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
North Bridge
0.6 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
South Bridge
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Edinburgh at South Bridge, a lively hub that connects the city's past with its modern vibrancy.
Mercat Tours
0.6 km
Uncover Edinburgh's captivating stories with Mercat Tours – your gateway to the city's historical and haunted heritage.
124 High St
0.6 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Edinburgh
0.6 km
Explore Edinburgh, a city rich in history and culture, with stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes.
Department Of Magic
0.6 km
Experience the magical fusion of cocktails and escape rooms at Edinburgh's Department of Magic, where every visit is a thrilling adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of Edinburgh
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history in a charming 16th-century building on the Royal Mile, featuring iconic artifacts and engaging exhibitions.
The People's Story Museum
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s working-class heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories in a historic 16th-century landmark on the Royal Mile.
Edinburgh World Heritage
0.0 km
Explore Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a city alive with history and culture.
Dunbars Close
0.1 km
Discover Dunbars Close, Edinburgh’s secret garden oasis offering peaceful charm and historic ambiance on the Royal Mile.
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile sweet shop offering rich, creamy Scottish fudge in a charming, welcoming setting with a wide variety of flavors.
Jacob's Ladder
0.3 km
Historic and steep, Jacob's Ladder links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and a glowing nighttime presence.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
White Horse Close
0.3 km
Discover White Horse Close, a picturesque 17th-century courtyard and former coaching inn steeped in Edinburgh’s royal and social history.
Regent Rd
0.3 km
Tranquil urban park and historic street offering stunning views and cultural landmarks in the heart of Edinburgh.
Scottish Parliament Building
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s modern democratic heart with free tours, debates, and iconic architecture in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Chocolatarium
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
Dynamic Earth
0.3 km
Explore Earth’s incredible story through immersive science, interactive exhibits, and a stunning planetarium at Edinburgh’s Dynamic Earth.
Monument to the Scottish Parliament
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s bold and modern seat of democracy, where architecture and politics intertwine in Edinburgh’s historic heart.
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier gin destination with immersive tours, bespoke blends, and stunning city views at The Arches.
Little Fish Tours
0.3 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
Essential places to dine
Tolbooth Tavern
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.3 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Garrigue
0.4 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Monteiths
0.4 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.5 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
Howies Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
The Piper's Rest
0.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.6 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Duck & Waffle
0.6 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
The Gardener's Cottage
0.7 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Number One
0.7 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Ecco Vino
0.7 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.7 km
A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Twenty Princes Street
0.7 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wyrd Shop
0.0 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.1 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Holyrood Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
Ragamuffin
0.3 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Real Scot Shop
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.4 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.5 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Scotland Shop
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Galaxy
0.6 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.6 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pure Scottish
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.6 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Eden
0.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
0.3 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.6 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Copper Still
0.6 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.7 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Captain's Bar
0.7 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Cask
0.7 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.7 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Three Sisters
0.8 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The Street
0.8 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Frankenstein
0.9 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Artisan Bar
0.9 km
A classic Edinburgh pub with ornate charm, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming vibe for locals and visitors alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Solo Female Friendly
