
Posted on March 18th, 2026.
ABOUT THIS PLACE
A powerful memorial to the fallen of the Jacobite cause, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.
Lift your gaze to the solitary Highlander crowning the Glenfinnan Monument, and climb the tower for sweeping views across Loch Shiel and the surrounding peaks. Step inside the visitor centre to uncover the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie and the dramatic events of the 1745 Jacobite Rising, along with the clans who rallied to his side.
Soak in the atmosphere of this iconic landscape, made famous by its appearance in the Harry Potter films, where the legendary steam train crosses the striking Glenfinnan Viaduct. With mountains rising on all sides and the tranquil waters of Loch Shiel at its edge, Glenfinnan offers a truly unforgettable Highland experience.
It was here, in 1745, that one of Scotland’s most significant historical moments began. Months before the Battle of Culloden, around 1,200 Highlanders assembled at Glenfinnan to swear loyalty to Prince Charles Edward Stuart. After raising his standard and marking the moment, they embarked on a campaign that would change the course of history.
The monument itself, standing 18 metres tall and completed in 1815, serves as a lasting tribute to those who fought and fell. Visitors today can ascend the tower and stand beside the Highlander statue, taking in a remarkable panorama of this historic landscape.
Glenfinnan is also an ideal starting point for exploring the wider area. Highlights include the renowned viaduct, the historic railway station and museum, the charming Church of St Mary and St Finnan, and a variety of scenic walking and cycling routes along rivers, lochs, and hillsides.
Uncover the legacy of Bonnie Prince Charlie and experience the spirit of the Highlands.