FAQs

Accessibility

The galleries within the Monument, and The Crown at the top of the building, are accessed via a narrow and spiral staircase, with a total of 246 steps. There is no handrail to assist due to the historical features and structure of the building.

Visitors who are unable to climb the staircase can use the facilities and watch the introductory video presentation in The Keeper’s Lodge, at the entrance level of the Monument. (There are 2/3 shallow steps leading into The Keeper’s Lodge). Toilet facilities are also available at the entrance level on the ground floor.

For more information, please visit the Accessibility section.

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Can I bring a large backpack or baby carrier into the Monument?

The galleries within the Monument, and the Crown at the top of the building, are accessed via a narrow spiral staircase, with a total of 246 steps.

Bag Restrictions: Bags are permitted, provided their dimensions do not exceed 55.9 x 35.6 x 22.9cm. Unfortunately, larger items and suitcases cannot be allowed. 

Large backpacks, suitcases and baby carriers are not allowed to be carried by visitors when climbing the stairs. Bags may be selected at random for a routine search.

No Left Luggage Facilities: There are no storage facilities on-site, except for pushchairs and wheelchairs/walking aids. 

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How do I reach the Monument from the Car Park?

A free complimentary shuttle bus service operates between the Car Park and the Monument, or you can follow the Wallace Way, a series of woodcarvings on the main path to reach the tower.

The shuttle bus will not operate from 1:00pm until 1:30pm – visitors should therefore allow at least 15 minutes to walk up from the Car Park to the Monument during this time. Please note that the pathway is steep in some areas. Only assistance dogs are allowed on the shuttle bus.

Please be aware that the shuttle bus provided is a free complimentary service and is not part of the ticket price. There may be instances when the shuttle bus will not operate due to circumstances beyond our control.

For more information, please visit the Directions section.

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Can I bring a pushchair or pram into the Monument?

The shuttle bus service which operates between the Car Park and the Monument can accommodate pushchairs and small prams, but space is limited.

The galleries within the Monument, and the Crown at the top of the building, are accessed via a spiral staircase, with a total of 246 steps. Visitors will be required to leave their pushchair or pram at the Reception Desk before climbing the stairs.

Visitors who are unable to climb the staircase can use the facilities in The Keeper’s Lodge, at the entrance level of the Monument. (There are 2/3 shallow steps leading in to The Keeper’s Lodge).

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What is the significance of the Monument?

Since 1869, The National Wallace Monument has been one of Scotland’s best-known and most distinctive landmarks. It commemorates the life of Sir William Wallace, who led the struggle for Scottish independence at the end of the 13th Century, and whose place in history was secured after his conquest of the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297.

To find out more, please visit the Our Story section.

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When is the best time to visit the Monument?

The Monument is open all year round. Times vary each month. Booking online in advance is advised to secure your preferred entry time slot. We are able to accommodate walk ups to the Monument, however these time slots are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. Last admission to enter the tower is one hour prior to closing.

To make a booking, please visit the Book Tickets section.

For more information about when to visit the Monument, please visit the Opening Times & Prices section.

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What concessions and discounts does the Monument offer?

The Monument offers concession tickets to seniors (60+). There is a discounted admission charge for children aged under 16, Blue Light Card holders, and family tickets are also available. Group prices are subject to a 10% discount on the normal admission rate. 

There must be a supervisory adult with anyone under the age of 16.

For more information, please visit the Book Tickets or Group Bookings sections.

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How do I claim a carer ticket?

For visitors with disabilities entry is charged at the Concession admission category rate. Proof of disability is not required.

We recognise that some disabled visitors may need help to visit the Monument and we offer free entry for accompanying carers/personal assistants. Carer tickets will be issued on arrival with a valid supporting ID.

Visit our Accessibility section for more information.

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I can’t climb the 246 steps, is there somewhere I can go instead?

The galleries within the Monument, and The Crown at the top of the building, are accessed via a spiral staircase, with a total of 246 steps. Visitors who are unable to climb the staircase can use the facilities and watch an introductory video presentation in The Keeper’s Lodge, at the entrance level of the Monument. (There are 2/3 shallow steps leading into The Keeper’s Lodge).

The admission charge for the Monument does not apply to any of the areas at the entrance level, including The Keeper’s Lodge and The Tower Shop. There is a shuttle bus service which operates between the Car Park and the Monument.

For more information, please visit the Accessibility section.

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How long does a visit to the Monument take?

A visit to the Monument can take between one to two hours. This includes the time taken to walk from the car park to the Monument, but can vary depending on how much time you spend on The Abbey Craig. Most visitors spend around one hour exploring the exhibition galleries.

Last admission to enter the tower is one hour prior to closing. For more information, please visit the Opening Times section.

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Is the Monument open at Christmas?

The Monument is only closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

For more information, please visit the Opening Times section.

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Is the use of drones permitted on the Abbey Craig?

Drone filming is not permitted onsite without prior consent and approval of the necessary insurance and license documents. Permission must be obtained from the site management team to use a drone in this location.

If you want to apply for permission to film at the Monument, please visit the Filming section.

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Are dogs allowed on the Abbey Craig?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the Abbey Craig and there are a number of beautiful walks which follow different trails through the woodlands.

We do however urge visitors to be cautious when walking dogs on the access road as a bus service from the Car Park to the Monument is in operation. Only assistance dogs are allowed on this service.

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Are dogs allowed inside the Monument building?

Only assistance dogs are allowed inside the Monument and on the free shuttle bus service. Dog bowls (for water) are available at the Monument.

For further information, please visit the Accessibility section.

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Is the Monument part of Historic Environment Scotland or National Trust for Scotland?

No. The Monument is managed and operated independently by Stirling Council.

By visiting us, you are contributing to the conservation of the Monument as a landmark visitor attraction in Scotland. With this support we are able to continue celebrating and protecting the heritage of William Wallace, helping everyone to enjoy it now and in the future.

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Is entry to the Monument free for Stirling residents?

No. The applicable admission charge is payable for all visitors. Tickets can be purchased online or from inside The National Wallace Monument on arrival.

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