Battle of Bannockburn Commemoration

24th June 1314 was the day upon which Robert the Bruce won his historic victory over the numerically vastly superior forces of Edward II of England at the Battle of Bannockburn near Stirling. Legend has it that whilst Bruce was on the run some time earlier, he watched a spider who persevered in building its web despite failing six times….on the seventh attempt the web was sucessfully spun which encouraged Bruce to “try, try and try again”, leading eventually to his win at Bannockburn and independence for Scotland. To commemorate the event and to remember the brave of both nations, a march to the battle memorial takes place each year where wreaths are laid at the Borestone. Also expect political speeches, some on the theme of independence for Scotland, and events themed around the battle.

Helpful Hints

The wreath laying usually takes place on the weekend nearest the anniversary – 2014  was the septcentenary of the battle so there were several additional events to mark the occasion including a battle re-enactment (this is where my photos came from rather than the regular event, though that does usually include talks and living history)

In 2023 the wreath laying was on Sunday June 25th- 2024 details are yet to be announced but it’s like to be on Sunday 23rd.

Battlefield Guided walks also usually take place on the weekend – see link for details.

The visitor centre is in the care of the National Trust for Scotland and is open daily all year (see website for times & prices). The battlefield itself  and its monuments are open free of charge.

Click here for the Visitor Centre website : https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/bannockburn