Image: Sgmiller4038 (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons
A Tower Above Scotland's Story
Rising high above Stirling, the Wallace Monument is one of Scotland's most recognisable landmarks.
Built in the 19th century to honour William Wallace, the Scottish hero who defeated English forces at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, the tower celebrates Scotland's fight for independence.
Visitors can climb the 246 steps to the top, exploring exhibitions about Wallace's life along the way. The reward is one of the finest views in Scotland, stretching across the battlefield landscapes, Stirling Castle and the Highlands beyond.
Perfect for: History lovers, walkers and panoramic views.
Nearby: Stirling Castle, Battle of Bannockburn, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.
Explore Wallace Monument → Image: Mike Searle (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Glenfinnan Monument
The Jacobite Memorial Beside Loch Shiel
Standing at the head of Loch Shiel, surrounded by mountains, Glenfinnan Monument is one of Scotland's most dramatic historic locations.
Built in 1815, the monument commemorates the Jacobite clansmen who fought during the uprising of 1745. It marks the place where Charles Edward Stuart raised his standard at the beginning of the campaign.
The scenery around Glenfinnan is spectacular, with mountains, lochs and the famous railway viaduct nearby making it one of the Highlands' most photographed locations.
Nearby adventures: West Highland Line, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Lochaber hiking routes, Highland camping.
Image: Steven Straiton (CC BY 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons
The Kelpies
Scotland's Modern Giant Landmark
Standing 30 metres tall beside the Forth and Clyde Canal, The Kelpies are among Scotland's most impressive modern landmarks.
Created by artist Andy Scott, these giant horse-head sculptures celebrate the importance of horses in Scotland's industrial past, where they powered canals, farms and industries for generations.
Located near Falkirk, they are easy to combine with other attractions including the Falkirk Wheel and historic sites around Stirling.
Perfect for: Families, cycling routes and photography.
Image: Martin Abegglen from Bern, Switzerland (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Scott Monument
Edinburgh's Gothic Landmark
Standing in the heart of Edinburgh, the Scott Monument is one of the world's largest monuments dedicated to a writer.
Built to honour Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, the Gothic tower dominates Princes Street and has become one of Edinburgh's most recognisable landmarks.
Visitors can climb the narrow spiral staircase to the viewing platforms for incredible views across the city.
Combine with: Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town and Calton Hill.
Image: Saffron Blaze (CC BY 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Calton Hill
Edinburgh's Open-Air Landmark
Calton Hill offers one of the most famous views of Edinburgh, with a collection of monuments creating one of the city's most recognisable skylines.
The hill contains several important landmarks, including the National Monument, Nelson Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument.
It is a perfect short walk for visitors wanting incredible views without leaving the city.
Best for: Sunrise and sunset, photography and city walks.
Image: DeFacto (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Commando Memorial
Remembering Britain's Elite Soldiers
Overlooking the dramatic mountains near Spean Bridge, the Commando Memorial honours the soldiers of the original British Commandos who trained in the Highlands during World War Two.
The location itself is powerful, with views towards Ben Nevis and the surrounding mountains.
It is both a place of remembrance and one of the most impressive viewpoints on a Highland journey.
Image: August Schwerdfeger (CC BY 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Burns Monument
Celebrating Scotland's National Poet
Located near Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, this monument celebrates Scotland's most famous poet.
The surrounding area allows visitors to explore Burns' birthplace cottage, the landscapes that inspired his writing and the stories behind Scotland's national poet.
Nearby: Ayrshire coast, Culzean Castle, walking routes.
Image: Unknown authorUnknown author (Public domain) via Wikimedia Commons
Remembering Scotland's Victory
The monument at Bannockburn commemorates one of the most important battles in Scottish history.
Standing near Stirling, it marks the battlefield where Robert the Bruce defeated the army of Edward II in 1314, securing a defining victory in Scotland's struggle for independence.
Explore Bannockburn Monument → 
