Hike to the William Wallace Statue
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If you ever find yourself in the Scottish Borders do your self a favor and visit the original William Wallace statue. Located at the end of a lovely forested walk, you will be pleasantly surprised to find one of Scotland’s many hidden gems accompanied by fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.
Finding the statue of William Wallace is a fun and worthwhile adventure suitable for the whole family. To get there begin by finding a small dirt parking lot located off B6356 between the towns of Bemersyde and Dryburgh. Be sure to not leave valuable belongings in your car, the area has historically been a target of thieves, (there is a sign posted by local police warning you), but don’t let this deter you.
The half mile path to the statue is pleasant and surprisingly easy, running along a farm field for about 500 feet before turning left into a thick wooded section. Around 20 minutes into your stroll the path will open up atop a small hill giving you a first look at the marvelous tribute to the countries most famous hero.
Commissioned around 200 years ago the statue, made of red sandstone, stands 31 feet in height and depicts Wallace watching over the River Tweed visible to the South and West. Also located just below the statue is a funeral urn, made of the same red sandstone, engraved with a poem honoring Wallace’s legacy during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
After viewing and photographing the monument turn West and South to enjoy pristine vistas of the Scottish countryside. Once back at your car head into the nearby town of St. Boswells and find somewhere to enjoy a traditional Scottish meal.