The Scott Monument is an unmissable Gothic tower in the heart of Edinburgh that pays tribute to Scotland's most famous writer, Sir Walter Scott.

At 61 metres high, it is the largest monument dedicated to a writer in the world and one of the city's most prominent landmarks.

The 10 cheapest hotels in Edinburgh

Located in Princes Street Gardens, directly opposite the main shopping street and a short walk from Waverley Station - whose name, incidentally, is taken from the title of Scott's most famous novel.

The black neo-Gothic silhouette of the monument is reminiscent of a cathedral without a nave and can look a little spooky from a distance. Yet (or perhaps because of it) it has become an integral part of Edinburgh's skyline.

A rewarding view - but up 287 steps

Scott Monument isn't just for looking at - you can climb to the 55-metre-high viewing platform via a spiral staircase of 287 narrow, stone steps.

While the climb is more physically demanding and not suitable for those suffering from claustrophobia or vertigo, the reward is 360° views across the city - including Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, the Firth of Forth and, on a clear day, far into the Scottish hinterland.

In addition, there are three stops on the way up with viewpoints and information panels describing the life of Sir Walter Scott and the construction of the monument itself.

Details and symbolism

The monument was unveiled in 1846 and is constructed from local sandstone. It is lavishly decorated with 68 statues - mostly of characters from Sir Walter Scott's novels, but also of real historical figures. At its base is a statue of the author himself sitting with his dog Maid, carved from white marble.

Architecturally, it is an example of Victorian Neo-Gothic and the original design was by a then unknown designer, George Meikle Kemp, who won an anonymous competition. Ironically, Kemp never saw his work completed - he drowned during construction work in the Union Canal.

Practical information

Scott Monument is open to the public, but due to the tight space, only a limited number of visitors are allowed on the overlook at a time. The entrance is on the east side of the monument, facing the Balmoral Hotel.

Opening hours:

April-September: daily 10:00-19:00
October-March: daily 10:00-16:00 (closed in very bad weather)

Admission:

Adults: 8 gbp
Children and students: 6 gbp
Children under 5 years: free

For important information and news, please visit the official website.

How to get here

Scott Monument is located in Princes Street Gardens, literally steps from Waverley Station and opposite Waverley Mall. Its central location makes it easily accessible on foot and by public transport.

Address: East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ
Public transport: Princes Street tram stop, bus routes 1, 22, 25, 26, 44 and others
Parking: the nearest car park is in St James Quarter shopping centre (approx. 7 minutes walk)

Tips for visiting

The best views tend to be at sunset, but due to limited opening hours, you must go in the summer.
If you don't want to 'unpack' the steps, there are great views of the monument from Calton Hill or the terrace at the National Gallery.
At the base of the monument there are usually street musicians, often in traditional Scottish kilts and with bagpipes - the perfect place for an atmospheric photo.
Other landmarks such as the Balmoral Hotel, Royal Scottish Academy and Old Calton Burial Ground are also nearby.