Standing just over 200ft (61m) high, and known as the Gothic Rocket, the Scott Monument is often mistaken for a church - understandably, perhaps - and dominates the view of the eastern section of New Town along Princes Street. Following Scott's death in 1832 the people of Edinburgh decided that a monument should be built in memory of one of Scotland's best-loved literary figures. At the time he was probably the most widely read British author of the era. The Scott Monument is the largest monument to a writer in the world. some data says, its 2nd largest though. This is especially fitting, given that Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature, having been home to many notable writers, such Scott, Burns, Stevenson, Conan Doyle and many more! There are 287 steps to the top of the Scott Monument, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside. read more

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This gothic monument to the famous Scottish writer (Sir Walter Scott) is so dark and mysterious looking during the day. It's an even better view at night when it's all lit up. It kind of makes you wonder what it actually looked like before it soaked up "auld reekie's" pollution back in the 19th century. In a way, the black soot actually gives it more character. It's also a nice contrast with the white Carrara marble statue of the writer. Do you see his dog (named Maida) laying to the right of him? So cute! So, if you can actually see the outer architectural details then you're in for a treat. It stands at 200 feet tall and has about 64 statues that represent some of the most notable characters in his novels. To be honest, I was more impressed with the gargoyles. We didn't attempt to go inside to climb up to the top of it, but many pay to do that. I'm sure it's a nice view. The courtyard surrounding it was being decorated for Remembrance Day celebrations. I loved seeing all the crosses and red poppies around it. It's definitely a must see monument, and certainly one that you're going to eventually pass by at some point during your stay in Edinburgh. read more

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AMAZING monument, it's the second largest tower dedicated to a writer in the world and not only is it stunning to look at, it also provides amazing views of Edinburgh from the top. It's a gothic masterpiece and feels right at home in a movie or video game, it's patina is amazing and feels even better dirty and aged than when it was brand new. My big regret was not climbing it this trip, my wife and I did the climb 10 years ago but we did so much everyday nobody felt like climbing it this time. I do remember it gets quite narrow toward the top. I'll never forget these words and they'll always bring me back to a younger self when they were giggle worthy but the "flying buttresses" on the sides are part of what makes it iconic and give it a gothic rocket ship kind of quality. Regardless, it was easy to see this monument since it's in a major intersection and we stopped by to at least look at it from the outside. It was a rare sunny day and it was perfect for photography, the stonework and masonry is epic and there seems to be details carved onto the details. read more

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As far as an historical landmark, I have to rate it 5 stars. It is very prominently located on busy and vibrant Princes St and right across the street from the Marks and Spencer department store we walked into. It is a Gothic monument honoring Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, someone I never personally heard of. But he must have been quite an author to have this huge monument dedicated to him. It was inaugurated way back in 1846, and as typical of historic structures in Edinburgh, it is still blackened with soot from the early industrial years, as sandblasting and chemical cleanings were found to be detrimental to the life of the stonework and outlawed on valued historic structures. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Oct 2025. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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Beautiful. I really didnt know anything about the monument except it was beautiful. Just had to take a few pics. A Gothic masterpiece. read more

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Unfortunately the monument was closed when we were on Edinburgh, we were unable to climb the steps up to the 3rd floor viewing platform. The first floor museum room is about Scott himself, his tumultuous life, his legacy, and the creation of this memorial built in his honor. Sound points would have enabled us to hear extracts from his writings. But, we couldn't miss this 30 ton monument carved in black Carrara marble by Sir John Steell. It took him 6 years to complete this imposing Sir Walter Scott with Maida, his beloved hound. The monument is open dailyfrom 10 am to 3:30 pm. They close for lunch from 12:30pm until 1:45pm. I don't know how we missed it? read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - I'm here! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

This is a stunning monument and captures your eye as you are walking on Princes Street. I will admit the shape reminded me of Galaga...if you know you know. From Wikipedia...The Scott Monument is a Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. It is the second-largest monument to a writer in the world after the José Martí monument in Havana. read more

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This dark gothic tower overlooking Princes Street is dedicated to the most famous Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott. Climb the 287 steps to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of Edinburgh. At night it lights up the sky. Unfortunately it was pouring rain the day I was here and I decided not to go up. read more

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This was my favorite monument in Edinburgh. Sir Walter Scott was an author and his Gothic monument is towering and beautiful. The British government passed the Dress Act in 1776 to suppress the Jacobites (supporters of James II for the British Crown) Rebellion and abolish Highland Dress of Bagpipes, Tartans and Kilts. It was also used to break up the clan system in the Highlands of Scotland. Sir Walter Scott was a big proponent of bringing back the traditions of the Highlands -- the bagpipes, the tartans, the kilts. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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Although this imposing structure would not be out of place in the wastelands of Mordor, with the blazing Eye of Sauron casting its burning gaze over the surrounding lands, this monument was not erected in honor of J.R.R. Tolkien, or any of his myriad creations. Instead, this towering effigy, occupying a place of high honor in the core of the city just north of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, pays tribute to its namesake, the storied Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, mastermind of such classics as Ivanhoe, Rob Roy and dozens more. This vast, crenellated, Gothic spire evokes and enhances the archaic, medieval feel of Edinburgh's most historic district, and can be ascended for a modest fee of £4, offering excellent views of Calton Hill, the Prince Street Gardens and the aforementioned castle. It's such a unique structure that it draws you in from far away, exciting your curiosity and instilling a desire to get up close to it, if for no other reason than to answer the question: "What the hell is that?!" At least, that's how it sucked *me* into its orbit. Definitely a must see for any visitor to Edinburgh, if you can drag yourself away from the Royal Mile. read more

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I had absolutely no idea who Sir Walter Scott was. And after briefly trying to read some of the info, I got bored, so I still don't know much except he wrote a book and some poetry... Anyways...you don't realize how tall this thing actually is until you hike to the very top. Great views and worth the £4 and 287 steps. Since everything in Edinburgh closes around 5:00 or 5:30pm, save this for last since its open until 6:30pm. read more

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Near the castle in old town, this monument stands as a reminder to one of Scotland's most significant writers Sir Walter Scott. It was constructed in the Gothic a revival style not long after his death. From the monument you can easily see old town corridors along princes street and make out the Edinburgh castle. read more

First, the stairs are quite narrow to say the least. If you have claustrophobia, consider passing on this. Also, obviously if you fear heights, pass. This is REALLY a great place to see the city. There are multiple levels and it's fun to pause at each level to get a glance at the scenery. Also nice to get a break from the rounded staircase. You feel like you walk FOREVER up the spiral stairs. I cannot imagine this on a busy day, trying to pass people on the stairs seems simply impossible in some spots if you're a normal sized person. It's also quite windy so mind your hats, phones while taking a pic, etc. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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Really awesome monument to visit here in Edinburgh. Visible on George St and located on Princes St, you can not miss it. Beautiful, gothic monument that catches the eye and just gives a sense of awe to this amazing city. The views of old town behind it just add to the experience. Worth checking it out and highly recommended. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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The day I landed in Edinburgh, I hauled my jet-lagged self out into the windy late September weather and walked down to Princes Street. I saw the Scott Monument long before I got to it - it's fairly hard to miss that big gothic tower poking through the skyline - and made an immediate beeline. When I did find myself at the base, I grabbed my mobile, made the executive decision to spend the $10 it would cost to send a message home from my Canadian phone and sent this very important text: "So, I've basically moved to Narnia..." If ever there was a beacon for how badass and whimsical this city is, The Scott Monument is it. Sure, we have the castle, but you're EXPECTING that. The Scott Monument? It's like a surprise declaration of whimsical dominance: you were expecting a castle? SURPRISE! Here's a WHOLE CITY of epic sh*t!! Having been here for a year now, one of my favourite things still remains walking around a corner and getting surprised by it looming over Princes Street Gardens. When folks from home visit and stop dead in their tracks, I LIVE for the moment I get to nonchalantly say, "Oh that? Yeah that's just a badass gothic tower in the middle of the city... welcome to Edinburgh!" read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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A workout with a VIEW!!! The 'gothic rocket' aka the Scott Monument was built in 1844 to commemorate Scottish writer, Sir Walter Scott (a statue of him sits at the base). At 200 Feet Tall and 287 Steps - climbing to the top of the Scott Monument in Edinburgh is a lot like taking a step class, except you will be rewarded with 360 degree views of Edinburgh - which can only be bettered by a climb up Arthur's Seat. I willingly paid my £4 entry fee and braced myself for an arduous climb. The stone spiral stair case was narrow, had tiny triangular steps and had to accommodate 2 way traffic! I gave a wee shout to see if anyone was coming down, heard nothing so made my way up, hugging the wall and wishing I didn't have such a bulky tote bag. Just when I was starting to feel a bit claustrophobic there was a light at the end of the 'tunnel' and I entered a stone landing. Wow! That wasn't so bad! Then I realised I was only on the first of 4 viewing platforms. This first set of steps winds up the outside legs of the monument and the viewing platform encircles a wee chapel like museum. This is the largest platform and can accommodate lots of visitors, so its easy to walk all the way around, taking time to get some great pics. The viewing areas get smaller as you go up so you may need to join a 'queue' that slowly makes it's way round to the next set of steps. Just take your time and enjoy the view.... By the time I reached the final set of steps I was getting tired and a bit sweaty but the photo breaks on each platform helped break up the climbing and provided some fresh air. What amazed me the most was that at each platform I seemed to be getting closer to the views; Calton Hill, The Balmoral, Arthur's Seat, The Castle all got bigger as I went up - even though the linear distance was the same. After taking tons of pictures I slowly made my way back down, once again stopping at each platform for a second look. I can't believe I waited so long to go up The Scott Monument! It's a fantastic way to see the city for visitors and locals - and you get a bit of a workout thrown in - there is NO LIFT!! read more

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I don't think I sufficiently appreciate what Sir Walter means to the Scots. But this is a cool monument. It looks like the hollowed out spire of a Gothic Cathedral -- if you forgot the Cathedral. The monument is 20 stories tall. Climbing the twisty, narrow spiral staircase to the top is very very cool. And it was completed in 1846 -- long before the Washington monument. (Not sure the insurance company would let tourists scamper up to the top if the monument were in the U.S. It's not for those who suffer from claustrophobia or those with cardiac problems.) The view from the top is spectacular. The guards at the bottom are quite chatty and are delighted to tell you about Walter or anything else for that matter. I don't think I would have climbed the 287 steps if my son hadn't wanted to. Thanks, Jake. I enjoyed it. read more

This is by far a favourite place for me in edi. £4 later you will enjoy an amazing view of the city. Each level you enter has its own character with a view. You will be able to see Edinburgh castle, Arthur's seat, Nelson monument, the Balmoral, and so much more! It will be windy so be careful! Don't forget your camera and mind all 287 steps! When you come down the man at the desk will give you a certificate that states you climbed the stairs and conquered! (You get one at Nelsons monument as well). I highly recommend climbing this treasure! It is so beautifully made! read more

Gorgeous, gothic monument in the city center. Like my friend said, this building is "such a mood." read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Hey mom, I can see the highlands from up here. For 4 quid, you get to climb up a narrow-as-hell staircase and peep the New Town and Old Town area from pretty far up. Beautiful monument. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Good day, Sir! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Multiple people have tried to convince me that the Scott Monument is a spaceship. Why is this? Do I come across that dumb or is it some sort of Edinburgh joke I don't get? Having lived in Edinburgh for a number of years, I have to admit I haven't really taken the time to admire this fantastic monument. I had no idea you could climb to the top either. But if you take a few minutes to really admire this beautiful piece of architecture, you will be impressed. Built in the late 1830's as a memorial to the late, great Sir Walter Scott this monument was designed by a joiner. It amazes me how well buildings like these stand the test of time. Anyway, you can climb to the top for £3. 278 steps take you there and you will probably feel the burn in your butt when you get to the top. I certainly did anyway. Those of a larger size may find it difficult getting up the narrow staircases, as might those who are claustrophobic. The views at the top are astounding, and it is a tight squeeze. If there are other people there at the same time there will be a lot of squeezing past each other and breathing in. It is so worth it though. One of Edinburgh's best attractions. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

The Scott Monument is a stunning spire-like Victorian, Gothic architecture memorial erected in honour of the writer Sir Walter Scott, with 287 steps to the top and a height to finial of 61.10 meters/200 ft. 6in. beautifully constructed of Binny Sandstone from West Lothian. This is classic and a very popular tourist attraction in Edinburgh. Managed to climb to the top with my friend and his daughter all 287 steps, no worries at all. Obviously, views mid-way and from the top are spectacular!!! Weather permitting; choose a sunny day to climb it! Beware: * If you are claustrophobic, as it gets really narrow from its half up with almost no windows or lancets. * If you are a large and/or tall person as it's just wide enough for one individual at the time. * Avoid climbing it with a rucksack or any kind of luggage as you may get stuck Three Stooges style!!! #scottmonument #edinburgh read more

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287 steps, narrow steps. Though you don't have to climb all of them, but you might as well. The view once you reach even the first set of steps is beautiful. You can see all of Edinburgh and it's lovely buildings, the castle and just the entire city. The steps are narrow so if you're coming up, people can't be coming down, this can cause a traffic jam, but there's nothing wrong with admiring the view just a little longer. I think it was 3GBP to enter, not pricey at all. This is another must do in Edinburgh. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - View - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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The Sir Walter Scott Monument is by far my favourite visitor attraction in Edinburgh. I first climbed the stairs a few years ago. It boasts the best view of Edinburgh and they weren't joking. 360 degrees, panoramic view of all the postcard sites that will be familiar when you talk of Edinburgh. 3 quid admission is an absolute bargain. The stone masonry alone is beautiful and finished to a seriously high standard. A timeless structure in an ever changing city. My favourite part of the monument is the graffiti etched in the stone on the viewing platform. While I am certainly not condoning such an action nor have I donned my house key to scratch my undying love for the girlfriend on the weather-beaten stone, many have, and I could spend hours reading all the testimonies and displays of affection. Simply beautiful read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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This is an absolute must do for anyone in Edinburgh whether you are a tourist or not. A lot of the attractions in this city can be kind of expensive so it's refreshing that this on only sets you back £3. I was really surprised at how high it is. From the ground it is deceiving, it doesn't looks as though its big enough to ft people in or tall enough to have views worth the climb! I was wrong on both counts. It can be a bit of a scary climb when you get nearer the top. As the monument gets narrower the stairs get more cramped and when I was there we got stuck in congestion which wasn't great. Walking through the door at the top into the fresh air was a relief and the climb was forgotten. The views from every level are second to none. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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This is the largest monument to a writer in the world. It's in the center of the city, so you cannot miss it while visiting Edinburgh. It looks like a solitary tower from a Gothic cathedral with flying buttresses and pointed arches. Situated in a small public park and gardens, you can enjoy the monument casually at its base, or you can climb up some narrows stairs up to a viewing platform inside the monument, but there is a small fee if you want to do that. It's a true landmark of this beautiful city. read more

I was in love with Walter Scott's books from the very childhood. Started from "Ivanhoe" and now continuing with "Rob Roy". I must say that I wish I new him, what a wonderful mind. He deserved this success and respect that the country shows him now. I'm a bit jealous that Scotland has such a great personality in their literature :) But you guys deserve it. The monument itself is huge, and impressed me more than the Queen Victoria Memorial. This dark huge shade that it spreads, the high peaks, that incredible majestic Gothic.. everything is perfect. It is worth visiting. While staying in Scotland, never skip that place, otherwise your trip was in vain. read more

I was told the stunning Sir Walter Scott Monument is referred to locally as the 'Gothic Rocket' and whether this is true or not it's definitely a good description of this beautiful landmark. You can go inside and climb to the top, which I didn't bother doing, but I greatly admire this gorgeous construction. You'll not miss it as it's prominently displayed on Princes Street and adds to Edinburghs charm and charismatic appeal. A fine example of 1840s architecture, sculpture and stonemasonry. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Remembrance Poppies... - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Worth the 5 pounds to go up to the top! Amazing views and a very cool albeit slightly terrifying experience!

This monument is gorgeous! It has a gothic vibe and it definitely sticks out. I was there before Christmas. A Christmas Market was taking place right at the foot of the monument. There stands with food, hand made crafts, souvenirs. The whole place and atmosphere was lovely. It definitely gave my fiancé and I a peek of how Edinburgh does Christmas. We loved it! read more

I have lived in Edinburgh my life , and I can truly say that the Scott Monument has one of the best views of Edinburgh. I would recommend it for all tourists.however I must warn you that at the stairs and at the top of the monument are very narrow , so I wouldn't recommend to anyone with vertigo or a fear of highs. It is open from April through September: Monday to Sunday 10am - 7pm and October through March: Monday to Sunday 10am - 4pm; last admission 3.30pm. Due to high winds , the Monument may be closed due to safety reasons , please check @EdinCulture before travelling to the Monument. read more

Had a great day climbing The Walter Scott monument today. It was £5 and well worth it. It was a squeeze climbing up the very narrow staircase especially when you have to squeeze past people coming down and it was a bit dark in some places but the views on each landing and when you finally reach the top are breathtaking. I think young kids would love exploring it too. I came home with a squashed penny momento and a sense of achievement. Go on give it a go, you wont regret it! read more

Rose - this review is just for you. You made the tour a truly incredible experience with all your knowledge and genuine friendliness. My partner and I were dying to do this, we paid 8 per person and waited for a tiny bit for our tour group. It was incredible, quite the workout too. If you can try to do the tour with Rose, extremely knowledgeable and nice. read more

Sir Walter Scott Monument - Scott Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

The Scott Monument is a beautiful architectural structure situated in Princes Street Gardens. Definitely worth climbing the 287 stairs to the top for beautiful panoramic views of Edinburgh. The stairs are spiral and narrow so it can be a bit tight with two-way traffic. There are lookouts along the way if you need to take a break or aren't up to climbing to the top. The cost is £4. I was fortunate to go at a time when it wasn't busy so the minimal two-way traffic was tolerable. If it was busy, I could see where it would not be enjoyable. read more

I've spent so many hours gazing at the beautiful Scott monument since arriving in Edinburgh, and today found out you're allowed to climb up inside of it! Gorgeous views from the top and many an intimate moment with the monument itself. Beyond worthy of a stop by! For only £4 you get to climb up and get a view of the whole of Edinburgh, and investigate the intricacies of the monument along the way. Truly beautiful from every perspective! read more

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Only 3 pounds for exercise and some of the most breathtaking views of Edinburgh? Yes please! This is an amazingly beautiful piece of architecture and it is the largest monument dedicated to a writer. There are four observation decks, each one a taste of the view to come. The first level has a small museum? shrine? That is enclosed by gorgeous stained glass windows and wood carvings. There is also encased information about the man himself, Sir Walter Scott and about the monument. Don't be a cry baby, it's only 287 steps to the top! read more

Like pretty much everyone else I'm astounded that very few locals and visitors to the city ever seem to know that you can climb up this monument. It's almost the best £3 you can spend in the city, second only to a bag of 5 sausage rolls from Piemaker. It's far less agonising than the sweaty (but rewarding) trek up Arthur's Seat, and delivers almost as stunning a view from the top. If I'm being totally honest though, I don't find the structure itself particularly striking or memorable. It just looks like a big black carrot. read more

A nice, quick thing to do in the centre of Edinburgh. For £4 (as far as I remember), you can ascend the steps to the top of the monument, for an excellent view across the city. There is a small exhibition about the excellent Walter Scott, who has played a major role in this city's culture. QUICK FACT: The railway station Waverley is named after a novel by Walter Scott, and I understand it's the only railway station in the UK to be named after a novel. The ascent is not easy, I must warn you of that. There are a lot of steps, and it gets gradually narrower as you ascend. For a tall person like myself, this is quite annoying. On top of this, the stairs are not wide enough to accommodate two people in most places, so I spent my entire ascent shouting "coming up!" to avoid awkward meetings.... The lack of space continues at the actual viewing levels, so you will without a doubt come into very close contact with people you've never met. Maybe you'd consider that a good thing? I don't know. Anyway, the reward for reaching the top is an excellent view across the city. You can see in all directions- the castle, Arthur's Seat and Calton Hill, the sea, the train tracks. Whatever you want to look at. Great photo ops. All in all, I probably won't climb it again, because of the cost and the narrowness, but I do recommend the Scott Monument for people visiting this beautiful city. read more

The Scott Monument is an amazing way to view Edinburgh. After going up the Nelson Monument, we were told to come here and climb up all the stairs for panoramic views over Princes Street, the Old Town, the gardens and even out to Leith. There are four sets of stairs that you have to climb up. The first three are fine but the final one that goes up to the top is incredibly narrow and must be extremely dangerous when it's busy and there are people coming down as you are going up. It is worth it for the view when you finally get up there though as it is beautiful. Although it was a dreary rainy day when we went up. It must be best enjoyed in summer when Edinburgh has tropical weather. And now it is Christmas time, so when you ride the Star Flyer next door, you feel like you are about to crash into it but that's all part of the fun. read more

Went there 20 years ago. Only cost 1 pound back then. It was awesome. Make sure you find all the different stairs up to the top. Good for kids over age 9. read more