THE National Wallace Monument is to reopen from September 1 after closing due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Built between 1861 and 1869, the 67-metre tower commemorates Sir William Wallace, the Guardian of Scotland who was executed in 1305.
Stirling District Tourism, which operates the monument, have put in place measures to allow for social distancing.
The monument will be open from 10am-5pm every day and reservations must be made in advance.
In recent months it has been illuminated in blue to support the NHS and in rainbow colours as a sign of hope during lockdown.
Ken Thomson, marketing manager at Stirling District Tourism, said: “As one of the city’s flagship heritage properties, the monument has an important role to play in re-building Stirling’s visitor economy.
“It is especially poignant that the reopening comes as we approach key anniversary dates.
“In September every year we mark the anniversary of William Wallace’s triumph at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297, and this year we can also look back on 25 years since the European premiere of Braveheart – at the University of Stirling on 3rd September 1995.
“The success of Braveheart was instrumental in making Stirling a ‘must visit’ destination for travellers from across the globe, and the key figure from the film is still at the heart of what Stirling offers visitors today.”
Bruce Crawford, MSP for Stirling, said: “The Wallace Monument is an important landmark to Scotland and is a crucial part of Stirling’s cultural offering.
“I’m pleased that it is reopening with safety measures in place, and all I ask is that those who do visit stick to the rules so that it can continue to be a safe environment for everyone to enjoy.”
Alyn Smith, MP for Stirling, said the Wallace Monument is “a vital educational experience” and an attraction that “brings people into the area, helping footfall into local businesses too”.
Bookings can be made at: www.nationalwallacemonument.com
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