Far-flung visitors from 103 countries visit Monument
One of Stirling’s most iconic landmarks attracted more than 120,000 tourists from 103 countries this year.
Holidaymakers from a host of countries – including Afghanistan, Congo, Kuwait, Lebanon, Philippines and Zambia – visited the Wallace Monument in the last 12 months, managers of the tourist destination revealed.
That figure is down just 20,000 on last year, despite the monument closing for almost three months for refurbishment.
This year saw the attraction mark its 150th anniversary with a programme of 150 celebratory events, the total refurbishment of its galleries and restoration of the exterior of the building, including the statue of William Wallace by the sculptor DW Stevenson.
In early 2019, the monument underwent a £1million renovation, which saw it close to the public between February and April.
Following its reopening, interest in the new-look exhibition spaces saw visitor numbers reach over 100,000 between May and October, with 26,500 people welcomed in August, its busiest month.
A year-long programme of 150 special events was held to mark the anniversary, including a large-scale family festival, part funded by EventScotland and titled,‘Wallace Wha Hae!’, and a special daytime activities event in September, which saw a combined 7000 revellers enjoying live music performances, Scottish street food, special activities and fireworks displays.
Further events included falconry displays, archery lessons and live actor performances, all designed to educate and engage audiences in the story of Scotland’s national hero, William Wallace.
Ken Thomson, marketing manager at Stirling District Tourism, the charity that operates The monument said: “It’s been an incredible year and we’re extremely proud of all that has been achieved.
“I’m sure Wallace would be surprised to learn that some 700 years after his death, visitors from all over the world are travelling to the city which now stands where he triumphed in his most famous battle, to discover his story and its impact on Scottish culture.”
The destination ends the year with an average Trip Advisor score of 4.5 from almost 3500 travellers.