Best Landmarks in Selkirkshire

Located on South Bridge in Edinburgh, Old College is the historic centerpiece of the University of Edinburgh, founded in 1582. The iconic neoclassical building, designed initially by Robert Adam and completed by William Henry Playfair, symbolizes the university's pivotal role in the Scottish Enlightenment. Its distinctive dome, crowned by the Golden Boy statue, is a landmark on Edinburgh’s skyline, reflecting centuries of academic tradition and architectural evolution.

The Duke of Wellington Equestrian Statue stands proudly outside Register House at the east end of Princes Street in Edinburgh. Created by Scottish sculptor Sir John Steell and unveiled in 1852, it depicts the Iron Duke mounted on his famed horse Copenhagen. This iconic bronze monument commemorates Wellington’s victory at Waterloo and his military leadership, blending historic reverence with artistic mastery in the heart of Scotland’s capital.

The Auld Kirk in Selkirk, Scottish Borders, is the evocative ruin of the historic Kirk o’ the Forest, a medieval church site dating back to the 12th century. It is famed as the place where William Wallace was proclaimed Guardian of Scotland in 1297. The site features remnants of an 18th-century church built atop earlier medieval foundations, surrounded by a graveyard with ancient tombstones. It stands as a poignant symbol of Scotland’s medieval heritage and national identity.

Aikwood Tower is a beautifully restored 16th-century peel tower nestled in the scenic Scottish Borders near Selkirk. This Category A listed building combines medieval charm with modern luxury, offering five ensuite bedrooms for self-catering holidays, weddings, and special events. Surrounded by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and rivers, it provides a peaceful retreat with rich history and abundant outdoor activities.

The Mungo Park Monument in Selkirk honors the life and legacy of Mungo Park, a Scottish explorer renowned for his pioneering expeditions into West Africa in the late 18th century. Erected in 1859 and designed by sculptor Andrew Currie, the monument features a life-size statue of Park atop a pedestal adorned with bronze figures and bas-relief panels added in the early 20th century. It stands as a testament to Park’s adventurous spirit and his role in opening African interior exploration to Europe.

The James Hogg Monument, unveiled in 1860, stands proudly overlooking St Mary's Loch near Selkirk, Scotland. Dedicated to the renowned Scottish poet and novelist known as the Ettrick Shepherd, the white-painted stone statue depicts Hogg seated atop a tall pedestal, gazing over the landscape he loved. Surrounded by scenic lochs and historic sites, the monument offers visitors a tranquil spot rich in literary heritage and natural beauty.

Nestled in Heatherlie Park, Selkirk, the Trees Of The Kings are a historic landmark steeped in medieval folklore and Scottish heritage. These ancient trees mark a hallowed meeting place for monarchs of Scotland and England, offering visitors a tranquil setting to reflect amidst lush greenery and panoramic views of the Scottish Borders. The site blends natural beauty with centuries of stories, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Located at 28 High Street in Selkirk, the Southern Reporter building is a historical landmark tied to one of Scotland’s longest-running regional newspapers. Established in 1855, the Southern Reporter has been a vital source of local news in the Scottish Borders, housed in this traditional town centre location that reflects Selkirk's rich media heritage.