5 Unique Animal Statues in Scotland

Every country in the world has famous statues and sculptures, but usually the animal statues aren’t the ones that stand out. Here are some of the best animal statues you’ll find while exploring Scotland.

Greyfriars Bobby

The small, black statue of a Skye terrier near Greyfriars Kirk is probably the most famous animal statue in Edinburgh. It’s certainly part of every walking tour through the city. To summarize, after the dog’s master passed away shortly after he was acquired as a guard dog, he sat by his master’s grave for 14 years. It used to be customary to rub his nose for good luck, but Bobby is a delicate statue and not for rubbing. If you feel the need, just give him a wee pat on the head…if you can reach.

Bum

Bobby isn’t the only dog statue in Edinburgh. Beneath Castle Rock in Princes Street Gardens is another statue of a dog, this one by the name of Bum. Bum is actually the vagabond dog of San Diego, Edinburgh’s sister city. A statue of Bobby was gifted to San Diego in 2008, and Edinburgh received a statue of Bum in return. You’ll find him at the entrance to the Princes Street Gardens off of King’s Stables Road.

The Kelpies

These magnificent statues are easily the most famous sculptures in all of Scotland. In fact, the Kelpies are the tallest equestrian statues in the world, rising 100 feet high. It only takes about an hour to get to them in the city of Falkirk. Stop by on the way to see Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument.

Towser

This is an interesting statue and one you’re not likely to see unless you’re looking for a good distillery tour. Towser was the mouser at the Glenturret Distillery from 1963 to 1987, although Glenturret is Scotland’s oldest distillery, dating back to 1775. Since Towser passed away, more generations of mousers have filled his boots to keep the distillery mouse free.

The Unicorn

Finally, I can’t talk about the animal statues in Scotland without mentioning the national animal – the unicorn! This statue can be seen all around the country. In Edinburgh, you’ll find it atop the Mercat Cross behind St. Giles Cathedral, and on the two columns at each of the entrances into the Meadows and other parks around the city. If you’re wondering why the unicorn is Scotland’s national animal, it’s because England has the lion, and the unicorn is the only animal that can defeat a lion.