Roslin Memorial: Commemorating Scotland’s Historic Battle of Roslin
A serene memorial honoring the 1303 Battle of Roslin, a pivotal Scottish victory during the Wars of Independence.
The Roslin Memorial in Roslin, Scotland, marks the site of the pivotal 1303 Battle of Roslin, a significant Scottish victory during the First War of Scottish Independence. This serene monument honors those who fought in this fierce medieval conflict, offering a place for reflection amid the rich historical landscape near Rosslyn Chapel and the village of Roslin.
A brief summary to Roslin Memorial
- 4 Penicuik Rd, Roslin, EH25 9LH, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in mild weather to fully appreciate the outdoor memorial and surrounding natural beauty.
- Combine your visit with nearby Rosslyn Chapel for a deeper historical and cultural experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the memorial is set in a natural, uneven terrain near Roslin Glen.
- Bring a camera for capturing the scenic views and the memorial’s rugged stone cairn.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Lothian Buses service 46 or 48 from Edinburgh city center to Roslin; the journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Services run frequently during the day but check schedules on weekends and holidays. From the bus stop, the memorial is a short walk through gentle terrain.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh, the Roslin Memorial is about a 25-minute journey via the A701. Parking is available near Roslin village, but spaces are limited. The final approach involves a short walk on uneven paths, so suitable footwear is recommended.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic 1.5-hour walk from Roslin village center to the memorial follows trails through Roslin Glen. The route includes some uneven and natural terrain, making it suitable for those comfortable with moderate walking conditions.
Roslin Memorial 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Roslin Memorial
The Battle of Roslin: A Forgotten Scottish Triumph
The Roslin Memorial commemorates the Battle of Roslin, fought on 24 February 1303 during the First War of Scottish Independence. This battle was a remarkable Scottish victory where forces led by John Comyn and Sir Simon Fraser ambushed and defeated an English reconnaissance party near the village of Roslin, just south of Edinburgh. Despite its significance, the battle is often overshadowed by other famous Scottish conflicts such as Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn. The victory boosted Scottish morale during a turbulent period marked by rival factions and ongoing warfare with England.A Monument of Remembrance and Heritage
Erected by the Roslin Heritage Society at the end of the 20th century, the memorial cairn stands as a solemn tribute to those who fought and died in the battle. It marks the approximate location of the conflict within the scenic landscape of Roslin Glen, a steep ravine that witnessed intense and desperate fighting. The memorial serves not only as a historical marker but also as a place for visitors to contemplate Scotland’s enduring struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by its people.Roslin’s Historical Context and Surroundings
Roslin is a village steeped in history, with nearby landmarks such as Rosslyn Chapel, founded in the 15th century by William St Clair. The chapel’s intricate architecture and carvings have drawn visitors for centuries. The memorial’s proximity to such sites enriches the visitor experience, connecting the battle’s legacy with the broader cultural and spiritual heritage of the area. The village itself dates back several centuries and has witnessed many historical events, making the memorial part of a rich tapestry of Scottish history.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The Roslin Memorial is set in a tranquil outdoor environment, surrounded by natural beauty that contrasts with the violent history it commemorates. Visitors often find the site peaceful and reflective, ideal for those interested in Scottish history, medieval warfare, or cultural heritage. The memorial’s modest size and quiet location encourage a contemplative visit, away from bustling tourist hubs, allowing for a personal connection to Scotland’s past.Preservation and Cultural Significance
Efforts to research and protect the battlefield have been ongoing, with Historic Scotland working to inventory and preserve this important historical site. The memorial and its surroundings are a testament to Scotland’s resilience and the complex history of its fight for sovereignty. The site also highlights the sometimes overlooked narratives within Scottish history, emphasizing the importance of remembering all facets of the nation’s heritage.Legacy and Continuing Relevance
Though overshadowed by other battles, the Battle of Roslin remains a symbol of Scottish courage and tactical skill. The memorial ensures that this legacy endures, educating visitors about the complexities of the Wars of Independence and the local heroes who shaped Scotland’s destiny. It stands as a reminder of the enduring spirit of resistance and the historical depth found in the Roslin area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roslin Memorial
0.0 km
A serene memorial honoring the 1303 Battle of Roslin, a pivotal Scottish victory during the Wars of Independence.
Roslin Parish Church
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Explore the historic Roslin Parish Church, a serene haven of spirituality and stunning architecture in the heart of Roslin village.
Maiden Castle
1.9 km
Explore the subtle earthworks and ancient mysteries of Maiden Castle, a prehistoric fortification nestled in the scenic Midlothian landscape.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa
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Experience medieval grandeur and modern luxury at Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa, nestled in scenic Scottish parkland near Edinburgh.
Melville Castle Hotel
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Experience regal Scottish luxury and historic charm at Melville Castle Hotel, a serene castle retreat near Edinburgh with elegant rooms and fine dining.
The Caiy Stane
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A 2.7-meter prehistoric stone marking ancient mysteries on Edinburgh's southern edge.
Newton Tower
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Explore Newton Tower, a unique early 17th-century ruined church tower in Dalkeith, rich in history and surrounded by tranquil old gravestones.
Historic Environment Scotland
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Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Monkton House
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Experience historic Scottish charm and elegant celebrations at Monkton House, a unique 15th-century castle wedding venue near Edinburgh.
Innocent Railway Tunnel
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Meadows Compass
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Arthur's Seat
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Climb Edinburgh’s ancient volcanic peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through natural and historic wonders.
Holyrood Park
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Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Holyrood Park, a natural gem in the heart of Edinburgh, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Lochrin Basin
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Experience the historical beauty and serene ambiance of Lochrin Basin, a hidden gem in Edinburgh's Fountainbridge area, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
10.0 km
Edinburgh's Renaissance masterpiece: where academic tradition meets architectural brilliance since 1897.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roslin Glen Country Park
0.4 km
Explore ancient woodlands, riverside trails, and historic ruins in the tranquil Roslin Glen Country Park near Edinburgh.
Rosslyn Castle
0.5 km
Explore the majestic Rosslyn Castle, a historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage, surrounded by stunning landscapes and captivating legends.
Roslin Gunpowder Factory
1.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Scotland’s largest historic gunpowder mill nestled in the serene Roslin Glen Country Park.
Dryden Tower
1.5 km
Discover the historical allure of Dryden Tower in Roslin, Scotland - a perfect blend of architecture, nature, and heritage.
Mavisbank House
2.5 km
Discover Scotland’s first Palladian villa, a historic estate blending Enlightenment ideals, architectural innovation, and pioneering mental health care.
Glencorse House
2.8 km
Exclusive historic wedding venue with a romantic 17th-century kirk and stunning natural grounds in the Pentland Hills near Penicuik.
The Flotterstone Inn
3.8 km
Historic coaching inn turned cozy pub and restaurant, nestled at the gateway to Edinburgh’s Pentland Hills with hearty fare and scenic charm.
Castlelaw Hill Fort
4.3 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age Castlelaw Hill Fort and its mysterious underground earth house nestled in the scenic Pentland Hills near Edinburgh.
Tesco Superstore
5.7 km
Your all-day, everyday Tesco Superstore in Dalkeith Hardengreen, offering groceries, fuel, clothing, and travel money services under one roof.
Gilmerton Cove
5.8 km
Explore the mysterious hand-carved sandstone tunnels beneath Edinburgh’s Gilmerton, where history and legend intertwine in an underground labyrinth.
Gore Glen Woodland Park
6.0 km
Discover tranquil woodland trails and panoramic Pentland Hills views in Gore Glen Woodland Park, a natural oasis rich in wildlife and history.
National Mining Museum Scotland
6.2 km
Explore Scotland’s coal mining heritage at the historic Lady Victoria Colliery, with immersive tours, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly experiences.
Penicuik Estate
6.2 km
Historic Scottish estate blending Palladian grandeur, designed landscapes, and modern regenerative hospitality near Edinburgh.
Old Temple Kirk
6.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Old Temple Kirk, a medieval church steeped in Knights Templar history and nestled in tranquil Midlothian countryside.
Pentland Hills Regional Park H.Q.
7.4 km
Explore 10,000 hectares of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure just minutes from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Essential places to dine
The Radhuni
2.6 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in a stylish, spacious setting with exceptional service at The Radhuni in Loanhead.
The Paper Mill
4.2 km
Historic riverside bar and brasserie in Lasswade offering all-day dining, Scottish craft beers, and live music in a charming setting.
Luci's Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
4.3 km
Modern Italian dining and craft cocktails beside the River North Esk in charming Lasswade.
The Steading
4.4 km
A cozy Edinburgh pub near Hillend ski slope serving hearty British classics and gluten-free options in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Gigi's Italian Restaurant
4.6 km
Authentic Italian dining in Bonnyrigg with a warm family atmosphere, classic pizzas, pastas, and seafood served daily from noon to midnight.
Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant
4.9 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes and vibrant atmosphere at the Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant in Penicuik.
The Dungeon Restaurant
5.1 km
A candlelit fine-dining experience in the atmospheric vaults beneath Dalhousie Castle, blending Scottish ingredients with French technique in a storybook setting.
The Sun Inn
5.7 km
A cozy gastropub and inn in Dalkeith offering hearty meals, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming Scottish atmosphere with a rooftop terrace and garden.
The Melville Inn
6.0 km
A charming gastropub and inn in Lasswade offering hearty British cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations amid scenic Melville Nurseries.
Elginhaugh Farm - Dining & Carvery
6.1 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub on Edinburgh’s outskirts, famed for its hearty carvery and welcoming atmosphere.
Memories of India
6.2 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Gorebridge, Midlothian.
Justinlees Inn
6.3 km
A welcoming Dalkeith pub offering diverse British and vegan menus, friendly service, and a family-friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices.
Beijing Banquet
6.9 km
A welcoming Chinese buffet in Edinburgh’s Danderhall, perfect for families and groups craving fresh, flavourful Asian dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Coronation Restaurant
7.2 km
Cozy Midlothian eatery serving hearty Scottish classics with standout steaks and warm, attentive service in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Cavaliere Italian Restaurant
7.3 km
A beloved Dalkeith institution serving authentic Italian classics with wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta since 1968.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Home Bargains
3.2 km
Budget-friendly Home Bargains in Loanhead offering great value on household essentials and more in a convenient retail park setting.
8 Yards Ltd
6.0 km
Discover bespoke Scottish menswear and over 5,000 clan tartans at 8 Yards Ltd, Dalkeith’s premier kilt and traditional clothing boutique.
Ideal Store
6.1 km
Explore Ideal Store in Newtongrange for unique tools, quality home supplies, and local craftsmanship that will enhance your travel experience.
B&M Store
7.1 km
Affordable shopping with a wide selection of discounted goods in the heart of Dalkeith’s High Street.
Mr Melts Wax
7.1 km
Discover handcrafted candles and unique home decor at Mr Melts Wax, Dalkeith's charming homewares shop.
The Kitchen at Restoration Yard
8.2 km
Discover the culinary charm of The Kitchen at Restoration Yard, a delightful restaurant in the heart of Dalkeith Country Park, offering local flavors and scenic views.
Restoration Yard
8.2 km
Discover a unique blend of curated shopping, seasonal dining, and wellness in a historic stableyard at Dalkeith Country Park.
Everyone's Designs
9.1 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and artistic cards at Everyone's Designs, Edinburgh’s creative heart on Bruntsfield Place.
Nice Stuff
9.3 km
Discover unique, affordable gifts and stylish homewares in Edinburgh’s charming Bruntsfield neighborhood.
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
9.4 km
Explore great savings and a vast selection at B&M Home Store with Garden Centre in Edinburgh, where home and garden essentials await you.
Emporium 62
9.8 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Freak Unique
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Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Edinburgh Art Shop
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Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Heart of Midlothian Football Club
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Discover the vibrant football culture at Heart of Midlothian FC, an iconic club in Edinburgh, home to passionate fans and rich history.
Poundland
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Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Royal Oak
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Laird & Dog Inn
4.3 km
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The Dean Tavern
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A traditional Scottish pub in Newtongrange offering great food, excellent beer, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Old Colliery
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Friendly family pub near Edinburgh with hearty food, dog-friendly perks, and a proud mining heritage in a welcoming community setting.
Ship Inn
7.2 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
The Hermitage Bar
8.1 km
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Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
9.1 km
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The Argyle and Cellar Bar
9.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Ballie Ballerson
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Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
The Riccarton Inn
10.1 km
Traditional Scottish pub and cozy inn offering real ales, homecooked food, and convenient lodging near Edinburgh in Currie.
Captain's Bar
10.1 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Raging Bull
10.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
SKYbar Edinburgh
10.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
Dragonfly
10.2 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Frankenstein
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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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Mash House
10.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Legends
10.3 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
10.3 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
La Belle Angele
10.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Bongo Club
10.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
10.4 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Liquid Room
10.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
10.4 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Club Tropicana
10.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
10.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
10.9 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
El Barrio Latino
10.9 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
10.9 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
11.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
11.0 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
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
