Beheading Stone, Stirling
A grim medieval execution block on Mote Hill, where traitors once lost their heads, now protected by a metal cage with sweeping views over Stirling and the Forth.
Perched on Mote Hill in Stirling, the Beheading Stone is a grim relic of medieval justice, once used as an execution block for high‑profile traitors. Now protected by a metal cage and mounted on a concrete pillar, it bears visible axe marks and stands as a somber monument to Scotland’s turbulent past. Nearby cannons and an information board add context, while the hill offers sweeping views over Stirling Bridge, the River Forth, and the Wallace Monument. Accessible via footpaths from the castle or town, it’s a short but evocative stop for history enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Beheading Stone.
- Stirling, Stirling, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in daylight and in dry weather; the paths to Mote Hill can be slippery and uneven, and the area is best avoided at night.
- Combine your visit with Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument for a full day of history; the stone is a short walk from the castle’s Back Walk.
- Look closely at the stone’s surface for axe marks and the holes where the wooden block was secured; these details bring the site’s grim history vividly to life.
- Bring a jacket and sturdy shoes; the hilltop is exposed and can be windy, even on otherwise pleasant days.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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On foot from Stirling Castle
From Stirling Castle, follow the Back Walk footpath downhill and then up Mote Hill; the walk takes about 15–20 minutes on paved and gravel paths, with some slopes and steps. The route is well signed but can be slippery when wet.
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On foot from Stirling town centre
From the town centre, head towards Crofthead Road and follow the footpath up to Mote Hill; the walk takes roughly 20–25 minutes on a mix of pavement and paths, suitable for regular footwear in dry conditions.
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By local bus
Several local bus routes serve Stirling town centre; from there, the walk to Mote Hill is about 20–25 minutes on foot. There is no direct bus stop at the stone, so a short walk is required.
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By car
Drive to Stirling town centre and park in one of the public car parks; from there, follow signs to Stirling Castle and the Back Walk, then continue to Mote Hill. There is no dedicated parking at the stone itself, and the access paths are not suitable for vehicles.
Beheading Stone. location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Beheading Stone.
A Stone of Blood and Power
High on Mote Hill, overlooking the River Forth and the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, stands a rough block of stone that once served as a medieval execution block. Known as the Beheading Stone, this unassuming slab is said to have been used in the 15th century for the beheading of those condemned for treason, particularly enemies of the crown. Local tradition holds that it was the final resting place for the heads of powerful nobles, including Murdoch, Duke of Albany, and his family, executed in 1425 on the orders of King James I after a bitter power struggle. The stone’s dark reputation is reinforced by visible axe marks and holes where a wooden block was once secured, evidence of its grim function.From Pictish Fort to Execution Ground
Mote Hill itself has layers of history stretching back to the first millennium AD, when it was the site of a vitrified Pictish fort destroyed by fire. Over the centuries, the hill became a place of royal justice, associated with the nearby Stirling Castle and the town’s medieval administration. The hill was also known as Heiding Hill or Heading Hill, a name that clearly reflects its role in capital punishment. Retributive justice later shifted to the Mercat Cross and Tolbooth in the town, but the Beheading Stone remained as a physical reminder of an era when power was enforced with the axe. In the 19th century, the stone was moved to its current position on the hilltop and encased in a protective iron cage, a gesture of preservation that also underscores its significance as a historical artifact.What You See Today
Today, the Beheading Stone sits on a white concrete pillar, enclosed in a sturdy metal cage, with a plaque noting that it is protected by the public at the insistence of the Stirling National History & Archaeological Society in 1887. An information board nearby explains its history and the executions believed to have taken place here, while a couple of old cannons add to the military atmosphere of the site. The stone’s surface still shows the scars of repeated axe blows, inviting quiet reflection on the lives that ended here. The setting is open and windswept, with panoramic views across the Forth Valley, the Wallace Monument, and the surrounding hills, making it as much a viewpoint as a historical monument.Visiting the Site
The Beheading Stone is a short walk from Stirling Castle, reachable via the Back Walk footpath or from Crofthead Road, and is accessible at any time of day. It’s best visited in daylight and in reasonable weather, as the paths can be uneven and slippery when wet. The area is popular with walkers and history buffs, but can attract informal gatherings in the evenings, so caution is advised after dark. There are no formal facilities at the stone itself, but toilets, cafes, and visitor information are available in the nearby town and at Stirling Castle. The site is free to visit and makes a compelling, if sobering, addition to a day exploring Stirling’s rich medieval and military heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Star Pyramid
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The Statues
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Tinkerbells Emporium
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The Crossed Peels
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Monterey Jack's Stirling
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Rob Roy McGregor Statue
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Stirling War Memorial
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A dignified sandstone obelisk honoring Stirling’s fallen heroes from World War I and beyond, standing as a lasting symbol of sacrifice and remembrance.
Tourist Information Point
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City Walls
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Contempo
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Explore Contempo, Stirling's charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs, jewelry, and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Scotland.
Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast
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Stirling City Heritage Trust
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St Ninians Well
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Discover Stirling’s historic St Ninians Well, a tranquil stone spring steeped in healing lore and centuries of local tradition.
memorial
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Historic Scotland
2.1 km
Discover the artistry of stone-cutting at Historic Scotland, a captivating experience in Stirling that showcases Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stirling Old Bridge
0.4 km
Walk across Stirling Old Bridge, a medieval stone marvel steeped in Scottish history with stunning views of the River Forth and iconic landmarks.
Stirling Distillery
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest distillery crafting award-winning gin and whisky in Stirling’s historic heart beneath the castle.
Grand Battery
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Explore the historic Grand Battery at Stirling Castle, a commanding artillery platform built over medieval kitchens, pivotal in Scotland’s 18th-century defenses.
The Great Kitchens - Stirling Castle
0.5 km
Step into the bustling medieval heart of Stirling Castle where royal feasts were crafted in the vividly recreated Great Kitchens.
RCCG City of God For All Nations Stirling United Kingdom
0.5 km
A welcoming and vibrant Christian parish in Stirling dedicated to faith, fellowship, and community outreach.
Robert the Bruce Statue
0.5 km
A commanding 19th-century statue of Robert the Bruce at Stirling Castle, symbolizing Scottish independence and royal heritage.
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum
0.6 km
Step into the story of Scotland’s famed Highland regiment inside Stirling Castle’s historic King’s Old Building.
Stirling Castle
0.6 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic Renaissance fortress with royal history, grand halls, lush gardens, and breathtaking Highland views.
Queen Anne’s garden
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A historic and tranquil garden beneath Stirling Castle, where royal heritage meets vibrant blooms and sweeping Scottish vistas.
Drummond Pleasure Ground
0.6 km
A serene Victorian garden in Stirling featuring the iconic Star Pyramid, blending faith, history, and landscape beauty.
Argyll's Lodging
0.7 km
Explore the finest surviving 17th-century Scottish townhouse, rich with aristocratic history and Renaissance artistry in the heart of Stirling.
Old Town Cemetery
0.7 km
Historic Stirling Old Town Cemetery, a serene necropolis rich with centuries of Scottish heritage and evocative monuments.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.7 km
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Mar's Wark
0.7 km
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Broad Street Stores
0.8 km
A friendly local convenience store at the heart of Stirling’s historic Broad Street, offering excellent value and essential goods daily.
Essential places to dine
Green Gates Authentic Indian Restaurant.
0.6 km
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The Portcullis
0.6 km
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Mediterranèa
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Hermanns
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MacMillans Kitchen
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Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant
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Molly Malones
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Experience the lively spirit of Ireland in the heart of Stirling at Molly Malones, a vibrant pub blending authentic hospitality with rich cultural charm.
Cold Beer Company
0.9 km
A lively Stirling pub with hearty classics, craft beers, sports screens, and a sunny beer garden in a historic former post office.
Mamma Mia Restaurant
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Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Stirling at Mamma Mia Restaurant.
Ranas Tandoori Restaurant
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Scholars Restaurant
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Classic British dining in the heart of Stirling with welcoming indoor and outdoor settings at the historic Stirling Highland Hotel.
Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy
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Discover Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy: A vibrant gastropub in Stirling offering delicious food, local ales, and live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Windchimes Ltd
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Cozy and inviting dining in Stirling’s historic center, featuring fresh local flavors and beloved homemade desserts.
Italia Nostra Ltd
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Rishis Indian Aroma, Stirling
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Palace Gift Shop
0.5 km
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F&F Clothing
0.5 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for the whole family, conveniently located inside Tesco Stirling Superstore with extended hours and quality guarantees.
Courtyard Gift Shop
0.6 km
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Cancer Research UK
1.0 km
Treasure hunt for a cause—quality secondhand finds funding cancer research in Stirling's heart.
Europa Music
1.0 km
Stirling's independent vinyl and CD sanctuary for collectors and music enthusiasts.
Calluna ethical living
1.0 km
Discover Stirling’s charming hub for sustainable gifts, ethical homewares, and beautiful plants at Calluna Ethical Living.
Abbey Antiques Ltd.
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Carefully curated antiques and fine art hidden on historic Friars Street in Stirling.
House of Henderson
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Discover bespoke Scottish Highlandwear crafted with tradition and care at Stirling’s House of Henderson, kiltmakers since 1923.
Made In Stirling
1.1 km
Discover Stirling’s vibrant creative heart with unique handmade art, crafts, and workshops at Made in Stirling’s flagship store.
Nickel & Dime
1.1 km
Discover Stirling’s eclectic emporium offering unique gifts, practical household goods, and charming finds at Nickel & Dime.
Bluebell's Childrenswear
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Discover stylish, quality children's clothing and gifts in Stirling’s charming Bluebell's Childrenswear boutique.
A'ila Home
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The Fragrance Shop
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The Celebrations Card & Gift Shop
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Trend
1.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Settle Inn
0.6 km
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Cross Keys
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Curly Coo Bar
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Vinney’s Bar
0.9 km
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Lawsons
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BrewDog Stirling
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meraki
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King Cons
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Port Customs Bar
1.3 km
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The William Wallace
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Westerton Arms
3.0 km
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The Bawbee
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The Borestone Bar
3.1 km
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Anchor Bar
3.3 km
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1314 Inn
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fubar Nightclub
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Castle Leisure Group
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XOXO
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City Nightclub
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I-Kandy Nightclub
29.1 km
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Pulse
29.2 km
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Eden Night Club
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Vibrant late-night hotspot in Coatbridge offering house, R&B, and chart music with a lively atmosphere and smart dress code.
Avenue Nightclub Coatbridge
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Coatbridge’s premier late-night nightclub for over-21s, offering vibrant music, modern vibes, and a lively weekend party scene.
LIFE
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The Twig Nightclub
31.1 km
Bathgate’s oldest nightclub offering lively, affordable, and historic nightlife experiences every Saturday night.
Midnight Breakfast Club
31.3 km
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DreadnoughtRock Nightclub & Live Music Venue
31.5 km
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Backstage at The Green
33.3 km
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Mundell Music
33.3 km
Discover the heartbeat of Kinross at Mundell Music, where unforgettable live performances and a welcoming atmosphere await every music lover.
Jock's Bar
33.3 km
Discover the warmth of Kinross at Jock's Bar, where local brews and friendly faces create unforgettable moments.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
