Scots have retained a distinct identity with unique customs, award-winning landscapes, rich heritage and stars like Robert Burns who still remain famous worldwide. Even down to our mythology and native languages, Scotland has its own flavour that is unrepeatable.
This fascinating legacy is captured by the plethora of statues scattered throughout the land that commemorate the nation’s most influential people and events such as famous Scottish kings or events like the Battle of Culloden.
Recently, it was announced that the Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow would open a new Banksy exhibition. In a statement, the artist confirmed what drew him to that location was the Duke of Wellington statue there with its iconic cone hat.
He said: “This might sound absurd and pretentious (just wait until you see the rest of the exhibition) but it’s my favourite work of art in the UK and the reason I’ve brought the show here.”
In celebration of this recognition, let’s explore this legacy with these 25 ‘best’ Scottish statues as voted by Scotsman readers.
. Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington
The statue depicts Arthur Wellesley (1st Duke of Wellington) and can be found outside Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art. It is famous for being capped with a traffic cone in a move said to reflect the local Glaswegian humour - this has been done since at least the 1980s. Photo: theasis via Canva Pro
. Greyfriars Bobby
You can find Bobby on George IV bridge close to Chambers Street in Edinburgh. A memorial to the dog that was truly man’s best friend, it reads: “A tribute to the affectionate fidelity of Greyfriars Bobby. In 1858 this faithful dog followed the remains of his master to Greyfriars Churchyard and lingered near the spot until his death in 1872.” Photo: via WikiCommons
. Commando Memorial
Located a mile away from Spean Bridge, the memorial overlooks the Commando Training Depot built in 1942 at Achnacarry Castle. The three-figure bronze statue exists to commemorate the sacrifices of thousands of Allied troops in World War Two. Photo: via Wallpaper Flare
. Edinburgh Unicorn
Mercat Cross in Edinburgh is topped with a unicorn monument as this beast is Scotland’s national animal. As a mythological creature, the Unicorn is said to be tied to Scotland’s Celtic heritage and the rich folklore that accompanies it. Many unicorn statues can be found all throughout Scotland. Photo: Mike McBey on Flickr
. Equestrian statue of Robert the Bruce
Situated by the site where the Battle of Bannockburn occurred, the monument reads: "ROBERT THE BRUCE KING OF SCOTS 1306–1329". He is one of Scotland’s most revered warriors and led the nation to victory over England in the war for independence. Photo: delphwynd on Flickr
. Scott Monument
Considered one of Edinburgh’s most recognisable landmarks, the monument stands tall in Princes Street Gardens. It was built to honour the Scottish writer, Sir Walter Scott, who is credited by some as the “inventor of the historical fiction genre”. Photo: via WikiCommons
. William Wallace Statue
The William Wallace statue is situated near Bemersyde Estate close to Melrose in the Scottish Borders. It commemorates the Scottish Knight who is remembered for championing the First Scottish War of Independence as a resistance leader. Photo: via STV News
. The Lone Highlander
Let’s raise our bonnets to the lone Highlander who stands on top of the Glenfinnan Monument in the Scottish Highlands surrounded by Loch Shiel. The statue pays tribute to the Jacobites who supported Bonnie Prince Charlie in his bid to regain the British crown in 1745. Photo: via WikiCommons
. The Cenotaph
Also known as the Glasgow War Memorial, you can find the large granite cenotaph in George Square. The ‘Cenotaph’ which is said to mean ‘empty tomb’ is dedicated to those who lost their lives in the First World War, honouring their sacrifice. Photo: jtweedie1976 on Flickr
1. Equestrian statue of Robert the Bruce
Situated by the site where the Battle of Bannockburn occurred, the monument reads: "ROBERT THE BRUCE KING OF SCOTS 1306–1329". He is one of Scotland’s most revered warriors and led the nation to victory over England in the war for independence. Photo: delphwynd on Flickr
2. Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington
The statue depicts Arthur Wellesley (1st Duke of Wellington) and can be found outside Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art. It is famous for being capped with a traffic cone in a move said to reflect the local Glaswegian humour - this has been done since at least the 1980s. Photo: theasis via Canva Pro
3. Greyfriars Bobby
You can find Bobby on George IV bridge close to Chambers Street in Edinburgh. A memorial to the dog that was truly man’s best friend, it reads: “A tribute to the affectionate fidelity of Greyfriars Bobby. In 1858 this faithful dog followed the remains of his master to Greyfriars Churchyard and lingered near the spot until his death in 1872.” Photo: via WikiCommons
4. Commando Memorial
Located a mile away from Spean Bridge, the memorial overlooks the Commando Training Depot built in 1942 at Achnacarry Castle. The three-figure bronze statue exists to commemorate the sacrifices of thousands of Allied troops in World War Two. Photo: via Wallpaper Flare