Discover the Scott Monument
Inside Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens is a striking memorial dedicated to one of Scotland’s most beloved writers. But the Scott Monument is not just big—it’s massive, enough to steal the show from even the grand Old Town behind it. You’ll find it smack-bang on the axis with South St. David Street, perfectly aligned to make jaws drop as you stroll from St. Andrew Square onto Princes Street. You really can’t miss it—literally.
So, if you’re a literature lover, architecture admirer, or just someone who enjoys climbing impossibly narrow staircases for a cracking view, this monument is a must-see in Edinburgh.
A Gothic Love Letter to Literature
Let’s get one thing straight: the Scott Monument isn’t your average tribute. Standing at a mighty 200 feet and 6 inches, it holds the world record as the largest monument to a writer—yes, even bigger than the José Martí monument in Havana. It looms over the city like a stone-clad literary lighthouse, guiding visitors straight to the soul of Scottish storytelling.
Designed in the Victorian Gothic Revival style (pointy and dramatic), this darkly romantic tower was built in honour of Sir Walter Scott, the historical novelist who gave us Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, Waverley, and a whole library’s worth of swashbuckling tales.
But beyond the striking looks and dramatic spires, there’s a truly heartwarming story behind how this monument came to be.
The Story Behind the Stone
After Sir Walter Scott’s death in 1832, the people of Edinburgh were determined to honour him in a way that matched the scale of his literary legacy. So, naturally, they held a design competition—because when in doubt, hold a contest.
Over 50 entries poured in, but the winning design came from a complete underdog. A man named George Meikle Kemp submitted his entry under the pseudonym John Morvo (a medieval architect from Melrose Abbey, no less), worried his lack of formal qualifications might see him dismissed outright.
Plot twist: Kemp’s design won.
A joiner by trade and a self-taught draftsman, Kemp poured his passion into creating a monument as awe-inspiring as the tales Scott had written. Construction began in 1840 after a ceremonial laying of the foundation stone by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost—and Grand Master Mason, no less—Sir James Forrest of Comiston.
Tragically, Kemp didn’t live to see his masterpiece finished. He drowned in the Union Canal on a foggy evening in 1844, just two years before the monument’s grand unveiling in 1846. Talk about a dramatic ending worthy of a Scott novel.
Drama in the Details: The Scott Monument’s Characters
Now, you might think a 200-foot tower is impressive enough, but the Scott Monument isn’t just tall—it’s intricate. And it’s absolutely crawling with characters—literally. The monument is decorated with 68 sculptures of figures from Scott’s novels, carved by some of the finest sculptors in Scotland.
There’s Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, and a whole ensemble of fictional favourites immortalised in stone, each one adding texture to the story the monument tells. These weren’t just any sculptors, either. Names like John Rhind, Amelia Robertson Hill (also behind the David Livingstone statue nearby), and William Brodie were brought in to do justice to the characters.
At the base of the monument, you’ll find a gleaming white marble statue of Sir Walter Scott himself, carved from a 30-ton block of Carrara marble by Sir John Steell. He’s depicted sitting calmly with his loyal deerhound Maida by his side, quill in hand, as if he’s just paused to dream up his next big adventure.
When the light hits it just right, the contrast between the gleaming statue and the brooding black stone of the tower gives the whole thing an almost magical quality. If you can, try to catch it during golden hour.
Fun fact: The Scott Monument was so admired, even some of the world’s earliest photographs captured its construction. You can still find these vintage snapshots in various Edinburgh museums.
Other Interesting Characters
If you think the monument is just about Scott, think again. The base of the tower is also adorned with 16 busts of famous Scottish poets, authors, and royalty, including:
- Robert Burns
- Allan Ramsay
- Mary, Queen of Scots
- King James I and V
- Lord Byron (yes, even though he was more of an international literary rogue)
These faces keep watch over Princes Street and serve as a cheeky reminder that Scotland’s literary history is just as rich and rebellious as its politics.
The Price of the Scott Monument
Behind the beauty of the Scott Monument lies a lesser-known and sobering chapter of its story. The Binny sandstone used for construction came from Binnie Quarry near Uphall, in West Lothian and it was incredibly hard—brilliant for enduring Edinburgh weather, but brutal for those who worked it.
The stonemasons, particularly the "hewers" who carved the ornate details in enclosed sheds, paid a high price. The fine dust generated during the carving process led to widespread cases of silicosis, or "phthisis" as it was then known. Contemporary reports estimate that nearly half the workforce succumbed to lung disease—a devastating reminder of the human effort involved in building monuments of this scale.
So the next time you gaze up at its spires, spare a thought for the craftsmanship and sacrifice behind every carving.
Inside the Scott Monument
Yes you read that right!
The inside of the monument isn’t just a hollow tower—it’s home to a cosy little museum on the first floor. Here, you can get the lowdown on Sir Walter Scott, his legendary literary career, and how the monument came to be. Plus, there are guided tours running every half hour that spill all the best secrets about this architectural wonder as you make your way skyward.
The Scott Monument has HOW MANY Steps?
Feeling active? Good. Because this Gothic giant isn’t just for looking at—you can actually climb it. There are 287 spiral steps in total, split across four levels, so you’ve got built-in rest stops (and views!) as you ascend.
First Stop
On level one you’ll be greeted by Sir Walter Scott himself, sculpted in marble and chilling out with his dog, Maida. It’s a great intro to the man behind the monument and your first peek at the views.
Second Stop
On this landing you’ll find miniature figures of characters from Scott’s novels.
Third Stop
By this point, you’ll probably be feeling the burn in your thighs—but just wait. The third platform opens up to one of the best panoramic views in Edinburgh. Spot Edinburgh Castle, North Bridge, and all the way to Holyrood Park.
The Final Push
The top-level is a tight squeeze (claustrophobes, be warned), but worth every creaky stair. From up here, you’re practically soaring with the seagulls. Take in that 360° cityscape and pat yourself on the back for a job well climbed.
Important accessibility information: This isn’t a monument built with modern accessibility in mind. With its tight, narrow staircases and lack of lifts, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
Visiting the Scott Monument
Opening Hours & Ticket Info
Before you visit the Scott Monument, here’s what you need to know:
Opening times vary by season:
- From April to October, it's open daily from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, with a break for lunch between 12:30 pm and 1:45 pm.
- During the winter months (November to March), it's open from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Ticket prices are friendly on the wallet:
- Adults: £8
- Children/Students: £6
- Families (up to 2 adults and 2 children): £20
There’s no need to scramble for tickets in advance—just head to the kiosk on the day. But bring your card, not cash!
Top Tip: Arrive early to avoid the midday crowd and beat the bottle-necking on the narrow staircase!
Top Tips for Your Visit
- Early bird gets the view: Beat the tourist traffic and get to the monument first thing in the morning.
- Pack light: The stairwell is snug. Bulky bags or backpacks will feel like climbing with a second person.
- Check the weather: Edinburgh can flip from sunny to soggy in seconds. The views are best when the skies are clear.
- Need a snack after the trek?: Head over to the National Gallery Café nearby for a cuppa and cake with garden views.
- Love a good photo op?: The Princes Street Gardens are your best bet for catching the monument’s full dramatic silhouette.
What’s Nearby?
Once your legs recover, there’s plenty to explore within walking distance:
- Scottish National Gallery: A treasure trove of art just minutes away.
- Mary King’s Close: Go underground for tales of plague, ghosts, and old Edinburgh.
- Museum on the Mound: Learn about the history of money in Scotland.
- The Witches’ Well: Explore the history of witches in Scotland.
- The Writers’ Museum: Celebrate the literary legends of Edinburgh.
- Calton Hill: Another cracking viewpoint if your legs are up for round two.
Beyond the Scott Monument: Explore with CityDays
If your appetite for exploration still isn’t satisfied (and you’ve got a thing for solving puzzles), then CityDays has just the ticket.
We run interactive scavenger hunts and treasure trails all across Edinburgh that combine storytelling, history, and a bit of brainpower. Think cryptic clues, hidden gems, and spontaneous discoveries—perfect for team building, a day out with friends, or even a quirky date idea.
Our routes will take you beyond the obvious—from cobbled wynds to secret courtyards, with plenty of trivia and laughs along the way. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no better way to experience the city.
Oh, and we don’t stop at Edinburgh. Our adventures stretch out across cities around the globe, so wherever you are, we’ve got a trail with your name on it.
Ready to play? Ready to explore? Let’s go!
