Scott Monument

Towering over Princes Street Gardens and visible to all, is the imposing, iconic Scott Monument. The largest tribute to a writer anywhere in the world.

A unique emblem of the city, it was constructed to a winning design by George Meikle Kemp as part of a competition for a suitable memorial to Scott commissioned by the city following the author’s death in 1836. Construction began in 1840.

One of the first sights for visitors arriving in the city by train, the near-by station is named ‘Waverley’ after Scott’s series of novels.

Not for the faint-hearted the climb to the top of the monument has a total of 221 steps but the views once the viewing platform is reached are stunning. (The upper two levels of stairs are narrow)

Tickets are available from the kiosk at the monument on the day and are not currently available online. The monument closes daily for lunch from 12.30pm to 1.45pm.

The monument features a Museum’s Room on the first level where information is available to visitors about Scott himself, his life and work with sound points being available where visitors can hear extracts from his writings. The Museum Room also features stunning stained-glass windows, designed by David Roberts and made by James Ballantine in the 19th century.

A statue of Scott himself is situated at the foot of the monument sculpted in Carrara marble by Sir John Steell. It depicts Scott and his faithful hound, Maida.

More information is available about Scott at the Writer’s Museum about 7 minutes’ walk away.

A full accessibility guide is available online at Scott Monument | Accessibility Guides. The main entrance has one step and there is no lift or ramp. Some parts of the monument have low lighting. The 1st Level Museum offers an audio display in French, German, Spanish and Italian.

There is a complimentary ticket policy for personal assistants.