The statue was sculpted by John Smith of Darnick, a local stonemason.
The original sword held by the statue was made of wood and iron but has been replaced multiple times due to weather damage.
The site was selected by the Earl of Buchan to commemorate Wallace's connection to the nearby Dryburgh area.
It remains one of the earliest large-scale monuments dedicated to William Wallace in Scotland.
The pedestal features an inscription detailing the Earl of Buchan's dedication of the monument.
The William Wallace Statue in Dryburgh is a 21-foot-tall red sandstone monument depicting the Scottish hero looking toward the River Tweed. Commissioned by the Earl of Buchan, David Steuart Erskine, the statue was erected in 1814 as part of a series of monuments intended to celebrate Scottish historical figures. It stands on the Bemersyde Estate, situated on a hill known as Wallace Hill. The statue is carved from local stone and features the figure holding a sword and a shield, though the sword is a later replacement for the original. The site provides elevated views across the valley toward the ruins of Dryburgh Abbey. Access is provided via a short woodland trail leading from the roadside area.
From the clearing directly in front of the statue for a full-length shot, or slightly uphill to capture the statue with the River Tweed in the background.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the path through the woods can become muddy.
Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as the surrounding woodland area is prone to midges.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Dryburgh Abbey ruins, located in the valley below.
Do not attempt to climb the monument pedestal, as the sandstone is fragile and historical preservation is a priority.
Respect the private property boundaries of the surrounding Bemersyde Estate and remain on marked paths.
