William Wallace Statue, Aberdeen
A commanding bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring William Wallace’s fearless fight for Scottish freedom and independence.
The William Wallace Statue in Aberdeen, erected in 1888 and sculpted by William Grant Stevenson, honors Scotland's national hero who led the resistance against English rule. This striking bronze monument stands on a red granite pedestal in Union Terrace, symbolizing Scottish bravery and independence. It features inscriptions on each side that reflect Wallace’s defiance and legacy, making it a significant cultural landmark in the city.
A brief summary to William Wallace Statue
- Union Terrace, Aberdeen, AB10 1NP, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Take time to read the detailed inscriptions on each side of the statue’s pedestal.
- Explore nearby Union Terrace Gardens for a peaceful picnic spot after your visit.
- Combine your visit with other nearby historic monuments like the General Gordon Statue and Robert the Bruce Statue.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Aberdeen Bus Station, take any bus heading to the city centre and alight at the stop nearest Union Terrace. The statue is a short walk from there. Buses run frequently with fares around £1.80–£2.50.
-
Walking
From Aberdeen Train Station, walk approximately 15 minutes on mostly flat terrain through Guild Street and Union Terrace to reach the statue. The path is accessible and well signposted.
-
Taxi
Local taxis can reach Union Terrace in about 5–10 minutes from central Aberdeen locations. Fares typically range from £5 to £10 depending on traffic.
William Wallace Statue location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about William Wallace Statue
A Monument to Scottish Valor and Independence
The William Wallace Statue, prominently located in Aberdeen’s Union Terrace, was unveiled in 1888 as a tribute to the legendary Scottish knight and patriot who played a pivotal role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Sculpted by William Grant Stevenson, the bronze figure stands tall on a red granite plinth, combining Aberdeen’s renowned metalworking and granite industries. This imposing statue captures Wallace in a commanding pose, sword raised, embodying the spirit of resistance and freedom that defined his life.Historical Significance and Inscriptions
Each side of the statue’s pedestal bears inscriptions that narrate key moments and speeches from Wallace’s life. These include his defiant reply to English friars before the Battle of Stirling Bridge, his speech at his mock trial in London, and a proverb imparted by his uncle emphasizing liberty’s supreme value. These texts deepen the statue’s role as a storytelling monument, connecting visitors to Wallace’s enduring legacy as a symbol of Scottish nationalism and courage.Artistic and Cultural Context
William Grant Stevenson, a notable Scottish sculptor, crafted this statue during a period of burgeoning Scottish national awareness in the late 19th century. Funded by a bequest from Sir John Steell, another prominent sculptor and opponent of the union between Scotland and England, the monument reflects both artistic excellence and political sentiment. It stands opposite His Majesty’s Theatre and near Union Terrace Gardens, integrating seamlessly into Aberdeen’s cultural and historic urban fabric.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
The statue’s location in the heart of Aberdeen city center makes it accessible and a focal point for those interested in Scottish history. Visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship up close and contemplate the powerful inscriptions. The surrounding area offers green spaces such as Union Terrace Gardens, providing a tranquil setting for reflection. Nearby historical sites and monuments enrich the cultural experience, making this statue a key highlight on any historical tour of Aberdeen.The Legacy of William Wallace in Aberdeen
Wallace’s connection to Aberdeen is rooted in his efforts to resist English occupation in the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Although his campaigns in the region met with mixed success, his legacy as a defender of Scottish sovereignty remains strong. The statue immortalizes his bravery and sacrifices, serving as a reminder of Scotland’s turbulent history and the enduring quest for freedom.Preservation and Recognition
The William Wallace Statue is a category B listed building, recognized for its historical and architectural importance. It continues to be a symbol of Scottish identity and pride, attracting locals and tourists alike. The statue’s preservation ensures that future generations can engage with Scotland’s rich heritage through this evocative public artwork.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Duke Of Gordon Monument
0.2 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Edward VII Statue
0.3 km
Aberdeen’s grand Edward VII Statue stands in full ceremonial robes, a striking granite and bronze tribute to the British monarch at the heart of the city.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
0.3 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
0.4 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Aedie's House site
0.4 km
Step into Aberdeen’s past at the site of Aedie’s House, a 16th‑century townhouse whose memory lives on in stone, street names, and local history.
Marischal College
0.5 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
0.5 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Castlegate
0.6 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
0.7 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Rosemount Palace
0.8 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Rosemount Market
0.9 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.1 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Edward VIII Post Box
1.1 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Gallows Hill
1.3 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.4 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
His Majesty's Theatre
0.0 km
Historic Edwardian theatre in Aberdeen offering diverse performing arts in a beautifully preserved setting.
Aberdeen Sign
0.1 km
A vibrant illuminated landmark in Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace, celebrating local culture and offering a striking photo opportunity day and night.
Union Terrace Gardens
0.1 km
Historic sunken gardens in Aberdeen’s heart, blending Victorian charm with modern design for a vibrant city green space.
Cowdray Hall
0.1 km
Historic concert hall in Aberdeen with superb acoustics, elegant design, and a vibrant cultural program nestled within Aberdeen Art Gallery.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.1 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
General Gordon Statue
0.2 km
A dignified bronze tribute to General Charles Gordon, reflecting his military valor and humanitarian legacy in the heart of Aberdeen.
Slains
0.3 km
Discover Slains in Aberdeen, a unique pub that offers a gothic atmosphere, delicious food, and a vibrant drink selection for locals and tourists alike.
Huntfun Aberdeen
0.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s city center through an exciting, interactive treasure hunt along Union Street that blends fun, learning, and adventure.
St. Nicholas Cemetery
0.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
St Nicholas Bandstand
0.3 km
An elegant historic bandstand in Aberdeen’s city center, blending architectural charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Bon Accord Aberdeen
0.4 km
Discover diverse shopping and vibrant city life at Bon Accord Aberdeen, the heart of retail on George Street.
The Grn
0.4 km
Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
Marischal Square
0.4 km
A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
The Tunnels
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aberdeen at The Tunnels, an underground nightclub known for electrifying live music and a unique atmosphere.
Provost Skene's House
0.4 km
Explore Aberdeen’s oldest townhouse, a historic museum celebrating local heroes, with stunning Renaissance art and centuries of captivating history.
Essential places to dine
The Terrace Bar and Café
0.0 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
THE BISTRO
0.2 km
A contemporary and welcoming dining spot in Aberdeen’s city center, blending local flavors with relaxed style.
Noose & Monkey
0.2 km
Aberdeen's iconic gastropub on Rosemount Viaduct: locally sourced eats, killer cocktails, live tunes, and theatre vibes just steps from His Majesty's.
Nargile Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen.
BioCafe
0.2 km
A vibrant vegan café in Aberdeen offering fresh, sugar-free, allergen-friendly delights in a cozy, eco-conscious setting.
Wild Boar
0.2 km
Historic Aberdeen pub offering classic British fare, real ales, live entertainment, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the city center.
Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Cuba at Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen – where vibrant cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Chaophraya
0.2 km
Experience authentic and innovative Thai cuisine in Aberdeen’s historic and elegant dining landmark.
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively culture in the heart of Aberdeen at Tango Turtle, where generous portions meet colorful ambiance.
Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy family-run charm in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
The Tippling House
0.3 km
A stylish Aberdeen cocktail bar and restaurant blending inventive drinks with fresh, flavorful small plates in a cozy speakeasy setting.
Chop Grill & Bar
0.3 km
Vibrant steakhouse in Aberdeen blending Canadian hospitality with fresh British ingredients and lively city centre atmosphere.
Ninety-Nine
0.3 km
Experience expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant modern bar food in the heart of Aberdeen’s lively social scene at Ninety-Nine.
Monsoona Healthy Indian cuisine
0.3 km
Experience authentic, health-conscious Indian cuisine in the heart of Aberdeen with fresh flavors and warm hospitality at Monsoona.
Café Bohème
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and cozy brasserie charm in the heart of Aberdeen at Café Bohème.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Juniper
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish home furniture, and beautiful jewellery in a charming shop with a welcoming ambience in the heart of Aberdeen.
Itskitsch Ltd
0.2 km
Aberdeen's cozy Fair Trade café and second-hand book haven on Belmont Street—savor pancakes, soups, and literary treasures in one independent gem.
Oliver Bonas
0.2 km
Discover Oliver Bonas Aberdeen, a stylish boutique blending British design with unique fashion, homeware, and gifts in a historic city setting.
White Stuff Aberdeen
0.3 km
Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
0.3 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and unique gifts steeped in heritage at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
EDIT
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted gems from Aberdeen's Deemouth Artist Studios at this city-center gift shop—unique jewelry, textiles, and art by 50 local makers.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
Scotland's Bothy
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Beyond Vintage
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
The Closet
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
No 18 Gifts & Cards
0.5 km
Discover unique greeting cards, stylish accessories, and thoughtful gifts at No 18 Gifts & Cards, a charming boutique in Aberdeen’s Chapel Street.
Copper & Grey
0.5 km
Bright independent gift shop on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, brimming with unique cards, jewellery, stationery, and local maker treasures for every occasion.
Tiger Lily Boutique
0.5 km
Elegant women's boutique on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, curating versatile dresses and chic separates for effortless day-to-night style in a historic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bartenders Lounge
0.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife with innovative cocktails, fresh music, and welcoming vibes at Bartenders Lounge on North Silver Street.
Under the Hammer
0.1 km
A cosy, characterful basement bar in Aberdeen offering well-made cocktails, a collected interior and an intimate, friendly evening atmosphere.
The Triplekirks
0.1 km
Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Vulture Lounge
0.2 km
Cozy viaduct bar in Rosemount pouring craft drinks, bites, and live tunes amid Aberdeen's gritty urban charm.
Revolution Aberdeen
0.2 km
Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.
The Rusty Nail
0.3 km
Classic Aberdeen pub on Rosemount Viaduct: wood-paneled charm, local ales, hearty grub, and lively neighborhood vibes from noon to midnight.
Masada Bar
0.3 km
A compact, old‑fashioned Rosemount pub with a local crowd, live music nights and a cosy, no‑frills atmosphere.
Ma Cameron's
0.3 km
Aberdeen's cozy Victorian pub pouring creamy pints and hearty pies amid lively banter on historic Little Belmont Street.
The Stag
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming city-centre pub in Aberdeen, offering great drinks, entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere every day from noon to midnight.
Prince Of Wales
0.4 km
Historic Aberdeen pub with the city's longest bar, real ales, home-cooked food, and lively music sessions in a warm, traditional setting.
Soul
0.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Aberdeen’s city center, blending modern urban style with hearty food and creative drinks.
All Bar One Aberdeen
0.5 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
0.5 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
Motif
0.5 km
A lively Union Street bar blending historic stained glass and organ echoes with neon, cocktails, games and live events for a sociable night out.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
0.5 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
