Edinburgh is famed for its historic character with a multitude of buildings that showcase the city’s impressive past.
Of course few would argue that the Scott’s Monument in the heart of the capital is unrivalled for both the views it offers in all directions as well as the tribute it pays to one of Scotland’s favoured sons.
But what is not as commonly known is that another tower that was constructed to honour Sir Walter Scott exists in the outer reaches of Edinburgh on Corstorphine Hill.
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Built around two and a half decades after the Scott’s Monument in 1871, Corstorphine Hill Tower, peaks above the woodland greenery in the west of the city.
Members of the public have traditionally only been able to access the structure on set annual open days or during special commemorative events but the Friends of Corstorphine Hill have announced that they will now be opening up the Tower every Sunday from early May.
This means that anyone looking for breathtaking panoramic views, from the Pentlands, to the Upper Forth, Fife and the Firth as well as the city centre and West Lothian, will be able to do so during a lovely Sunday stroll.
William MacFie, of the local Clermiston area where the Tower is situated, constructed the memorial building on the hundredth anniversary of the author’s birth.
According to the Corstorphine Hill website, it is built on glaciated dolerite and is “square in plan, with buttressed corners; it has a corbelled, battlemented parapet surmounted by a small tower.”
At the turn of the Millennium the Tower had to undergo reservation work due to a mixture of vandalism and general degradation which cost several thousands of pounds.
The Tower sits 200m above sea level and was gifted to the City of Edinburgh in 1932.
Those looking to explore its wonderful history during the first open day on May 7 will be able to call on volunteers from the Friends of Corstorphine Hill who will be on hand to answer any questions.
The Tower will be open from 2-4pm, Friends of Corstorphine Hill say on their Facebook: “Every Sunday, members of the public are able to access the Corstorphine Hill Tower!
“It's possible to climb the tower and see the wonderful views out across Edinburgh.
“There will also be members of Friends of Corstorphine Hill available who can try and answer any questions that you may have.
“We very much appreciate a donation for access to the tower, if you are able. We do have a card reader available for use.”
As well as the Tower, Corstorphine Hill boasts a number of fantastic trails for people to explore - with the odd Zebra visible through Edinburgh Zoo’s back fence.
There is also a walled garden that is open to the public which is the ideal spot for a small picnic.
The Tower can be accessed via the 26 bus, by multiple footpaths around the Hill or alternatively a small car park at the top of Kaimes Road.
You can learn more about the open day events here.
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