Bannockburn Battlefield, Bannockburn, United Kingdom

The Battle of Bannockburn (24 June 1314) was a significant Scottish victory in the First War of Scottish Independence, and a landmark in Scottish history. Stirling Castle, a Scots royal fortress, occupied by the English, was under siege by the Scottish army. The English king, Edward II, assembled a formidable force to relieve it. This attempt failed, and his army was defeated in a pitched battle by a smaller army commanded by the King of Scots, Robert the Bruce. The defeat of the English opened up the north of England to Scottish raids and allowed the Scottish invasion of Ireland. These finally led to the Treaty of Edinburgh–Northampton. It was not until 1332 that the Second War of Scottish Independence began with the Battle of Dupplin Moor, followed by the Battle of Halidon Hill (1333) which were won by the English.

In 1932 the Bannockburn Preservation Committee, under Edward Bruce, 10th Earl of Elgin and Kincardine, presented lands to the National Trust for Scotland. Further lands were purchased in 1960 and 1965 to facilitate visitor access. A modern monument stands in a field above the battle site, where the warring parties are believed to have camped on the night before the battle. The monument consists of two hemicircular walls depicting the opposing parties. Nearby stands the 1960s statue of Bruce by Pilkington Jackson. The monument, and the associated visitor centre, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.

The National Trust for Scotland operates the Bannockburn Visitor Centre.

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Miscellaneous historic sites in United Kingdom

User Reviews

A I (9 months ago)
The modern visitor centre has adequate parking, audiovisual presentations, a small shop, pleasant cafe and toilets. Although the tidal bog has been drained and modern housing has encroached, there is still a clear view of Stirling Castle and the main battleground features. The onsite information placards describe the importance of the battle. The quotation on the Cairn is a translated extract from the declaration of Arbroath sent, after the battle, to persuade the Pope to recognise Scotland’s independence.

Wai Lam Au (10 months ago)
Tour is interesting. Best arrive 45min of each hour, so can let the wee one take sometime play with costumes. After the tour can go to cafe or walk around the battle field.

Aubrey Brawley (13 months ago)
My family and I enjoyed the experience. The guide was entertaining and very informative! The interactive displays and videos were great! I would love to see more museums or historical centers use this type of medium. It really enhances the over experience! Definitely recommend for all ages.

Debz X (13 months ago)
The Battle of Bannockburn Exhibition Centre is a historical attraction located in Stirling It commemorates the famous Battle of Bannockburn, which took place in 1314 between the Kingdom of Scotland and the Kingdom of England during the First War of Scottish Independence. The exhibition center offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and significance of the battle through interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. You can explore the battlefield through virtual reality experiences, witness the strategies and tactics used by both sides there is great cafe with views looking over the battlefields and monument that part is free to walk around -dogs are welcome there - clean toilets and exhibition shop inside tours should be booked in advance as they are always busy but still lovely if you just want to sit in peace and enjoy the refreshments and warmth wheelchair friendly

Dave Holland (2 years ago)
We arrived as the centre was closing so we didn’t get in. Great free car park. Well maintained paths to the monuments. Lots of information boards cover the area and give a good insight into the battle, they stir the imagination, well thought out. It’s a popular place for dog walking and would be nice for a picnic with the children. Can’t wait to come back for a full day visit with a re-enactment.

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