Scott Monument
Gothic spire honoring Sir Walter Scott with panoramic city views from a challenging 287-step climb in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens.
The Scott Monument in Edinburgh is the largest monument dedicated to a writer in the world, honoring Sir Walter Scott. This towering Gothic spire stands 61 meters tall in Princes Street Gardens and features intricate carvings, statues of characters from Scott’s novels, and a museum room with stained-glass windows. Visitors can climb 287 steps to panoramic viewing platforms offering stunning vistas of Edinburgh’s skyline, including Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat.
A brief summary to Scott Monument
- E. Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh, EH2 2EJ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Prepare for a steep climb of 287 narrow spiral steps; wear comfortable shoes and be mindful of tight spaces near the top.
- Visit the museum room on the first level to enjoy stained-glass windows and audio readings of Scott’s works.
- Tickets are sold only on-site; arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during festival seasons.
- The monument closes daily for lunch between 12:30pm and 1:45pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Writers’ Museum and the Scottish National Gallery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take a tram or bus to St Andrews Square, then walk about 10 minutes through Princes Street Gardens to the monument. The tram and buses run frequently, with single fares around £1.80-£2.50. The nearby Waverley Station is also a convenient arrival point.
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Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, it is a 10-15 minute walk along Princes Street Gardens to the Scott Monument. The terrain is flat and paved, suitable for most walkers but not wheelchair accessible.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at Princes Street Gardens near the monument. Travel time from central Edinburgh locations typically ranges from 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic, with fares approximately £5-£10.
Scott Monument location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Scott Monument
A Majestic Tribute to Sir Walter Scott
The Scott Monument is a striking Gothic spire located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens, erected to commemorate the renowned Scottish novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. Standing 200 feet (61 meters) tall, it is the largest monument to a writer anywhere in the world. The monument was designed by George Meikle Kemp, whose winning design was chosen in an 1836 competition following Scott’s death. Construction began in 1840 and the monument was completed and opened to the public in 1846.Architectural Grandeur and Symbolism
The monument’s dark, shale stone exterior has a brooding, blackened appearance caused by years of pollution, giving it an eerie yet captivating beauty. Its spire is adorned with 64 intricately carved statues representing characters from Scott’s novels, along with Gothic gargoyles and grotesque faces typical of the style. At the base sits a striking white Carrara marble statue of Sir Walter Scott with his faithful dog Maida, sculpted by Sir John Steell. This statue contrasts vividly with the dark monument, especially when sunlight illuminates it.Exploring the Interior and Museum Room
Inside, the first level houses a small museum room that feels like a chapel, with wooden paneling and four stunning stained-glass windows designed by David Roberts and made by James Ballantine in the 19th century. This room offers an exhibition about Scott’s life and work, complemented by audio displays in multiple languages featuring readings from his writings. The museum room provides a contemplative space to appreciate Scott’s literary legacy.The Challenging Climb to Breathtaking Views
Visitors willing to ascend the monument face a climb of 287 narrow, spiral steps divided into four levels. The staircase becomes increasingly narrow and steep, especially near the top, making the ascent a test of stamina and agility. For those who reach the summit, a 360-degree viewing platform offers unrivaled panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline. Highlights include sweeping vistas of Edinburgh Castle, the New Town, Arthur’s Seat, and the distant coastline. The wind at the top adds to the exhilarating experience.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
The Scott Monument is open daily, with seasonal opening hours generally from 10am to 4pm or 7pm in summer months, and closes daily for lunch between 12:30pm and 1:45pm. Tickets are purchased on-site, with prices around £8 for adults and concessions available. The monument is accessible from Edinburgh Waverley Station and is surrounded by other attractions such as the Writers’ Museum and the Scottish National Gallery. Due to its narrow staircases and lack of lifts, it is not wheelchair accessible.Enduring Symbol of Edinburgh’s Literary Heritage
The Scott Monument remains a beloved emblem of Edinburgh’s cultural identity and literary history. It stands as a testament to Sir Walter Scott’s enduring influence and the city’s pride in its artistic heritage. The monument’s dramatic silhouette dominates Princes Street Gardens and continues to inspire visitors with its architectural beauty and the stories it embodies.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Location Audience
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