Waterloo Monument, Jedburgh

4.4 (136)

A majestic 150-foot Doric column commemorating Wellington’s victory, set on a scenic Scottish Borders hill with sweeping panoramic views.

Home
United Kingdom
Roxburghshire
Waterloo Monument

The Waterloo Monument near Jedburgh is a 150-foot Doric column erected between 1817 and 1824 to commemorate the Duke of Wellington's victory at the Battle of Waterloo. Set atop Peniel Heugh hill, it offers commanding views of the Scottish Borders landscape. Though public access to the tower’s interior is limited, the monument remains a striking historical landmark visible for miles around.

A brief summary to Waterloo Monument

Jedburgh, TD8 6TT, GB
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 the nearby Harestanes Visitor Centre for parking and start your walk to the monument from there.
Access inside the tower requires a key from the Lothian Estates Office; check availability in advance.
Wear sturdy footwear for the hill climb and bring weather-appropriate clothing as conditions can change rapidly.
Combine your visit with exploring Jedburgh’s historical sites such as Jedburgh Abbey and Mary Queen of Scots House.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Over Ancrum

Over Ancrum: Historic Landmark and Scenic Border Heritage Site

Littledean Tower

Littledean Tower: A Historic Border Stronghold and Haunting Ruin

Jedburgh Abbey

Getting There

Car

Driving from Jedburgh town center to the Waterloo Monument takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes via local roads. Parking is available at Harestanes Visitor Centre, about 1.5 km from the monument, from where a marked walking path leads uphill. Note that parking is limited and the roads are rural, so plan accordingly.
Bus and Walk

Take a regional bus service from Jedburgh to the junction near Harestanes Visitor Centre, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes depending on schedules. From the visitor centre, follow the well-marked walking trail uphill to the monument, a moderate 30-minute walk over uneven terrain.
Walking

For active visitors, walking from Jedburgh town center to the Waterloo Monument is a scenic 1.5-hour hike through countryside trails and minor roads. The route includes some steady uphill sections and requires good footwear and fitness.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Seating Areas
Information Boards

Discover more about Waterloo Monument

A Towering Tribute to Victory

Rising 150 feet above the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, the Waterloo Monument stands as a grand tribute to the Duke of Wellington’s decisive victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Commissioned by William Kerr, the 6th Marquess of Lothian, the monument was designed by architect Archibald Elliot after an earlier structure by William Burn collapsed shortly after construction. Built from local stone between 1817 and 1824, the Doric column is a commanding presence on Peniel Heugh, a prominent hill between Ancrum and Nisbet.

Historical Roots and Architectural Details

The monument’s creation was deeply tied to the Kerr family’s long-standing presence in the area, dating back to the 14th century. The 6th Marquess of Lothian, a cousin of the Duke of Wellington, sought to honor Wellington’s campaigns against Napoleon with a lasting memorial. The tower’s design features a spiral staircase of 226 steps leading to a wooden balcony encircling the top, mirroring the number of steps in the Waterloo memorial in Belgium. Though public access inside the tower is restricted and requires a key from the Lothian Estates Office, the monument’s exterior and panoramic views remain accessible to visitors.

Setting and Surrounding Landscape

Perched on Peniel Heugh, the monument commands sweeping vistas across the Scottish Borders, visible from distant points such as Carter Bar and the Lammermuir Hills. The surrounding landscape is characterized by gently undulating farmland and low-lying hills, making the monument a striking focal point. The nearby Harestanes Visitor Centre serves as a starting point for walkers who wish to explore the area and enjoy the scenic ascent to the monument.

Commemorative Significance and Community Events

The Waterloo Monument is the only significant memorial to the Battle of Waterloo in Scotland and Northern England, symbolizing the bravery and sacrifice of Scottish and Northumbrian soldiers. It has been a site for community gatherings and commemorations, including a major 200th anniversary event in 2015 that featured historical reenactments, pipe bands, and local festivities. This event highlighted the monument’s role as a cultural and historical landmark deeply woven into the fabric of the Borders region.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

While the tower itself is not generally open for public climbing without prior arrangement, visitors can appreciate its impressive scale from the surrounding grounds and enjoy the peaceful rural setting. The ascent from Harestanes Visitor Centre is accessible via well-maintained paths, suitable for most walkers. The monument’s remote hilltop location offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for photography, nature appreciation, and reflection on a pivotal moment in European history.

Preservation and Modern Engagement

The monument has undergone conservation efforts to maintain its structural integrity and appearance. It remains under private ownership by the Lothian Estates, who manage access and upkeep. The site occasionally hosts special events, including charity fundraisers and historical celebrations, ensuring the monument continues to engage new generations while preserving its heritage.