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Battle of bannockburn visitor centre.

The Battle Bannockburn took place on the 23rd to 24th June 1314 and was a decisive victory for the Scots during the Wars of Independence with England. 

The objective of the English army, led by King Edward II, was to relieve the English garrison holding Stirling Castle.  It was not a battle that King Robert the Bruce of Scotland had wanted to fight as his campaign against the English invaders had been based on guerilla tactics. But the battle was brought about by his brother, Edward Bruce, who had negotiated with the English garrison that they would surrender if not relieved before the 24th June. The Scottish army of Robert the Bruce numbered around 6,500, but superior tactics enabled them to decisively defeat an English army of around 18,000 men. It is an exhilarating story of David and Goliath proportions that is brought to life at the Battle of Bannockburn visitor centre with 3D technology and computer-generated imagery.

At Bannockburn, the Scots made careful use of the terrain to control the battle and hemmed in the larger army so it could not deploy its military power. When the English cavalry did manage to engage the Scots, they met densely packed squares of foot soldiers brandishing long spears that they could not penetrate. These squares of spearmen were trained to manoeuvre en mass and they pushed the enemy back towards the marsh ground of the Bannock Burn. At this point, the numerical advantage of the English was negated because the terrain denied them mobility and they could not escape from the thrust of the Scottish spearmen.

The new visitor centre at Bannockburn was completed in 2014, in time for the 700th Anniversary of the Battle. This is not a conventional museum tour as there are very few battlefield artefacts that have been found at Bannockburn. So what you get here is an exhibition that uses some very impressive 3D displays to bring the battle experience to life. As a prelude to the main 3D experience, you watch a 3D version of a "puppet show" (it's not as whacky as it maybe sounds) where King Robert's loyal friend, Sir James Douglas, explains the Scottish side of the events that led up to the Battle. The English perspective of the battle is then explained by Lady Isabella, the French wife of Edward II, the English King who led the opposition at Bannockburn.

The tour guide then takes you to the "battle room" where you can view a large table with a map of the battlefield as it would have looked in 1314. The guide points out the locations of the different army groups on the map and explains the ingenious tactics that Bruce employed to counter his enemy's superiority in terms of numbers and armament. Our guide was an animated lady who did a great job of bringing the bloodiness of the battle to life.

You then move into the most visually impressive part of the exhibition where you are placed in the firing line of the battlefield with cavalry and archers launching their attacks at you. The quality of the lifesize animation is very good, but they have toned it down a bit so that it isn't too frightening for children. In our opinion, they could have made it a bit more dramatic with more cavalry horses in the charges and more combat re-enactment, but it will still have you ducking as arrows fly past your head. This bit used to be done in 3D and you wore special glasses to give you more of an impression of what it felt like to be on the receiving end of a longbow.

Either side of the main arena are "corridors" where you can learn more about the characters in the opposing armies. In these "corridors" you find several historical figures from different tiers of society. The people represented each have summaries about their background and role in the battle, so you can learn about the conflict from the perspective of peasants and nobles. This part of the experience used to be done with computer animation so you could wave your hand and the historical character would start to talk to you and tell you their story. We suspect they decided to stop the computer animation feature as it was a bit of a bottleneck in the flow of the tour, and made it difficult to condense the tour experience into a 1 hour slot,

After you have watched the battle animation, felt the weight of some replica weapons, and read about the combatants on each side, the tour concludes with a short film about the impact of the battle on the Scottish Wars of Independence, and how it led to the demise of Edward II of England. You can then step outside and walk up to the monuments that commemorate the battle. These consist of the "rotunda" which surrounds a flagpole erected on the spot where legend has it that Bruce planted his Royal Standard on the eve of the battle.  And a little beyond the rotunda is a magnificent statue of Robert the Bruce in full battle armour astride his battle horse. The face of the statue is modeled on a cast created from a skull that is believed to be Robert the Bruce's. 

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Bannockburn and Stirling Castle Tartan Tours Scotland

  Bannockburn and Stirling Castle by Tartan Tours Scotland

Our first stop on this tour by Tartan Tours Scotland is at Bannockburn, the sight of the famous Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Robert The Bruce led the Scottish Army to victory over The English Army led by King Edward.The Bannockburn visitor centre allows visitors to experience the landscape of the battlefield, and see the magnificent statue of Robert The Bruce. The new visitors centre allows you to experience the battle in 3D and allows you to decide who wins. The whole experience lets you learn about stories from the battle and the events at Bannockburn that changed Scottish History. The visitor centre at Bannockburn has a gift shop and café area  to allow you to relax and unwind after your 3D Battle Experience.

Once finished at Bannockburn Tartan Tours Scotland move onto Stirling Castle one of the largest and most important Castles in Scotland. Buildings within the castle date back to 14,15 and 16th Century. Stirling Castle has endured 8 sieges during its history the last being an attempt by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746. The castle has also witnessed the crowning of Scottish Kings and Queens including Mary Queen of Scots. A full guided tour of Stirling Castle is available, which includes a museum visit and the chance to buy further souvenirs of your visit at the gift shop and coffee shop.     

We cater for all your needs, which includes collection, and transportation to all three locations, and personal tour guide for the day.

We suggest you allow 4- 5 hours to ensure you make full advantage of this memorable day with Tartan Tours Scotland.  

Maximum tour size - 6 people, contact us now  at Tartan Tours Scotland for details and availability on Bannockburn and Stirling Castle tours.

 At Bannockburn you have the opportunity to visit the iconic Robert The Bruce Statue, first unveiled by the Queen in 1964, the  statue was created using the exact measurements of Bruce's skull which was discovered at Dunfermline Abbey in 1818 and was originally designed by Charles d'Orville Pilkington Jackson. The St Andrews cross also fly's high above Bannockburn and can been seen for miles around. Everything is situated in the Rotunda which is a short walk from the visitor centre.  The whole site and visitors centre were upgraded in a project which began in 2012 and was finished in time for the 700 year anniversary of the battle in 2014. The site at Bannockburn is a must for all visitors to Scotland and can be enjoyed by people of all ages, there is also a child friendly area where children get the chance to touch and see replica weapons and armour used at the time of the battle.

Stirling Castle which sits high on volcanic rock, can been seen for miles around, and from its position the scenery looking out from the castle is breath-taking. During your visit to Stirling Castle you will get to see the Great Hall built in 1503, The Royal Palace and Chapel, The Great Kitchens plus many more features that are on display at the Castle. The Regimental Museum is also a must see and very popular with visitors. Stirling Castle was first mentioned in 1174 and from that date has been one of the most strategic military strongholds in Scotland, from its position it controlled the movement of people and armies within Scotland. Despite its long History most of Stirling Castle has easy access with only a few areas that are not suitable for those with walking conditions or requiring wheelchair access.      

Bannockburn and Stirling Castle are part of Scotland's ancient history and Tartan Tours Scotland are delighted to offer this tour opportunity to all visitors to Scotland.

To check availability of this tour please contact Tartan Tours Scotland  using our contact page and we will be only too happy to arrange a fantastic private tour just for you while you holiday in Scotland. 

Or why not look at some of our other tours that are offered by Tartan Tours Scotland, The Falkirk Wheel , The Kelpies , Inveraray , Loch Lomond , Robert Burns ,  Mary Queen of Scots ,   William Wallace , Outlaw King , Outl ande r , Whisky & Wallace , Jacobite Tour,   Culloden  ,   Ocean Terminal Greenock, Glasgow  or our new exclusive Robert the Bruce tour   .  The Falkirk Wheel a marvel of engineering, The Kelpies modern day 30ft sculptures, Inveraray with its stunning Castle, Loch Lomond with its Bonnie Bonnie Banks, that Braveheart feeling with William Wallace and Ocean Terminal Greenock, Glasgow for cruise ship visitors. All fantastic day trips and remember we can design your very own tour with us, just contact us with your requirements and we will do the rest   

Guided Walking Tour of Bannockburn Battlefield

Join us on a private guided walking tour of Bannockburn battlefield with expert local guides. It’s a fascinating story and you will learn about the tactics and details of the battle which brought Robert the Bruce victory over the English Armies in 1314.

Here is some information on the our popular Tour of Bannockburn Battlefield: A Pivotal Moment in Scottish History

Nestled in the pages of Scotland’s rich history is the Battle of Bannockburn, a defining moment that unfolded on the fields near Stirling Castle in June 1314. This historic clash between the forces of King Robert the Bruce of Scotland and King Edward II of England marked a turning point in the First War of Scottish Independence. Let’s embark on a journey through time to explore the events leading up to and the consequences of the Battle of Bannockburn. You will discover so much on your tour of Bannockburn battlefield

Tour of Bannockburn battlefield

The origins of the conflict can be traced back to the death of Alexander III, the King of Scotland, in 1286. The ensuing power struggle and disputes over the Scottish succession led to the intervention of Edward I of England, who sought to exert influence over Scotland. The Scots resisted English dominance, and the struggle for independence intensified under the leadership of William Wallace and, later, Robert the Bruce.

Robert the Bruce, crowned King of Scotland in 1306, faced numerous challenges as he sought to unite the Scottish clans and resist English rule. The Battle of Bannockburn was the culmination of a series of skirmishes and strategic maneuvers, with both sides vying for supremacy. The English forces, under the command of Edward II, aimed to quash the Scottish rebellion once and for all.

The Battle Unfolds

On June 23 and 24, 1314, the two armies clashed on the fields near the Bannock Burn. The Scottish forces, using the terrain to their advantage, devised a brilliant strategy. Led by Robert the Bruce, they employed schiltrons—dense formations of spearmen—creating a formidable defensive line. The Scots successfully withstood the English cavalry charges and inflicted heavy casualties on their opponents.

Legend has it that during the intense fighting, Robert the Bruce and Sir Henry de Bohun engaged in single combat, resulting in the Scottish king delivering a fatal blow with his battle-axe. This event symbolized the determination and resilience of the Scottish forces.

The Battle of Bannockburn concluded with a resounding Scottish victory. The English suffered significant losses, and Edward II narrowly escaped capture. The triumph at Bannockburn proved pivotal in securing Scottish independence, and it bolstered Robert the Bruce’s position as a national hero.

The Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton in 1328 recognized Scotland as an independent kingdom, solidifying the legacy of the Battle of Bannockburn. The event remains a symbol of Scottish resistance against overwhelming odds and the enduring fight for freedom.

The Battle of Bannockburn left an indelible mark on Scottish history and identity. The Bannockburn Heritage Centre, located near the battlefield, preserves the memory of this historic event. Each year, reenactments and commemorations take place, ensuring that the courage and sacrifice of those who fought at Bannockburn are never forgotten.

The Battle of Bannockburn stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Scottish people in their quest for independence. This historic clash not only shaped the course of the First War of Scottish Independence but also left an enduring legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of Scots today. The story of Bannockburn serves as a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, the pursuit of freedom and self-determination can lead to triumph against all odds.

Tours meet at Bannockburn visitor centre. Book your walking tour of Bannockburn today at a date and time that suits you.

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Tartan Tours Scotland Bannockburn and Stirling Castle

© Tartan Tours Scotland

Bannockburn and Stirling Castle

PRIVATE TOUR 1-6 PEOPLE to Bannockburn and Stirling Castle This is a private tour designed for 1 -6 people with your own tour guide. Pick up and drop off at your hotel. Travel in luxury and discover Bannockburn and Stirling Castle.

Our first stop on this tour by Tartan Tours Scotland  is at Bannockburn, the sight of the famous Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Robert The Bruce led the Scottish Army to victory over The English Army led by King Edward.The Bannockburn visitor centre allows visitors to experience the landscape of the battlefield, and see the magnificent statue of Robert The Bruce . The new visitors centre allows you to experience the battle in 3D and allows you to decide who wins. The whole experience lets you learn about stories from the battle and the events at Bannockburn that changed Scottish History. The visitor centre at Bannockburn has a gift shop and cafe area to allow you to relax and unwind after your 3D Battle Experience.

Once finished at Bannockburn Tartan Tours Scotland move onto Stirling Castle one of the largest and most important Castles in Scotland. Buildings within the castle date back to 14,15 and 16th Century. Stirling Castle has endured 8 sieges during its history the last being an attempt by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746. The castle has also witnessed the crowning of Scottish Kings and Queens including Mary Queen of Scots. A full guided tour of Stirling Castle is available, which includes a museum visit and the chance to buy further souvenirs of your visit at the gift shop and coffee shop.     

We cater for all your needs, which includes collection, and transportation to all three locations, and personal tour guide for the day.

We suggest you allow 4- 5 hours to ensure you make full advantage of this memorable day with Tartan Tours Scotland.  

Maximum tour size - 6 people   contact us now  for details and availability 

Maximum tour size - 6 people

Contact us now

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Tartan tours scotland.

Tartan Tours Scotland offers Private Luxury tours of Scotland for 1 -6 people. Our tours include. Kelpies and The Falkirk Wheel Bannockburn and Stirling Castle William Wallace Inveraray and Loch Lomond Culloden Whisky Bespoke Tours New tours for 2021 Outlaw King Jacobite Tour Outlander Mary Queen of Scots Each tour is designed to give you an unforgettable experience. You will be collected at your hotel or arranged pick up point. Travel in luxury with your party and your Private Tour guide to your destinations. All you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your day.

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Undiscovered Scotland

Bannockburn.

On the southern edge of Stirling is the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, run by the National Trust for Scotland. Here, and in the neighbouring parkland, Scotland commemorates, and to a degree celebrates, what most people view as the most significant victory won by Scotland over an invading English army. The Battle of Bannockburn took place on 23 and 24 June 1314.

It marked a turning point in the Wars of Independence between Scotland and England: cementing King Robert the Bruce's grip on Scotland; weakening Edward II's grip on England; and, arguably, deferring the Union of the Crowns of England and Scotland by nearly three centuries.

The general background to the Battle of Bannockburn is clearly established. The starting point was the accidental death of King Alexander III of Scotland in 1286. When his only heir, his young granddaughter, Queen Margaret, Maid of Norway, then died while sailing back to Scotland from Norway, it left Scotland torn between rival factions.

Inviting King Edward I of England to adjudicate between the competing claims for the Scottish crown probably seemed the only way to avoid civil war, but turned out to be inviting the fox into the henhouse. The complex Wars of Independence that followed saw Edward I fully justify the nickname of "The Hammer of the Scots" until his death in 1307.

Robert the Bruce, or Robert I, had crowned himself King of Scotland in March 1306. The death of Edward I gave Robert a breathing space of several years, during which he sought to consolidate his hold on power in Scotland in the face of the largely ineffectual efforts of Edward II of England and, initially at least, the much more dangerous opposition of his Scottish enemies.

By November 1313, Robert's long and brilliant campaign as a guerilla leader meant that the English controlled only one stronghold in Scotland, Stirling Castle, and this was under siege by forces led by Robert's brother, Edward Bruce.

Without Robert's knowledge, Edward Bruce made a deal with the English Constable of the castle, Sir Philip Mowbray, that if an English army had not arrived to relieve the castle by 24 June 1314, the castle would surrender, so making an aggressive siege unnecessary. Robert was not happy: he was deliberately avoiding the head on confrontation with an English army his brother's deal had now made unavoidable.

Edward II of England hastened to assemble an army of some 18,000 men: probably the largest English army (of many) to invade Scotland. They gathered in Berwick on 10 June 1314 and headed north. Late in the afternoon of Sunday 23 June the vanguard of the English army, following the old Roman road from Falkirk to Stirling, arrived at the ford over the Bannock Burn, a couple of miles south of Stirling. On the far side, in the New Park in which the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre stands today, a Scottish army of some 6,000 awaited them.

The English vanguard attacked immediately, discovering to their cost that the Scots had placed concealed anti-cavalry ditches across the obvious line of approach. But one knight, Henry do Bohun, did manage to mount a personal attack on Robert, which Robert fought off with an axe. A second English attack, which tried to outflank the Scottish forces via the low lying ground to the east, was also repulsed when it encountered a Scottish schiltron, a formation of spearmen trained to present attackers with an impenetrable barrier of spearpoints.

The main battle took place the following day, on 24 June 1314. Over the years, there has been considerable controversy over the exact location of the second day's fighting, though archaeological investigation undertaken in advance of the 700th anniversary seems to have largely resolved the issue, and most now believe it took place in the location shown on Ordnance Survey maps. The Scots seem to have spent the night on a plateau known as the Dryfield, half a mile north-east of the Visitor Centre, while the English, needing water for their many horses, forded the Bannock Burn and occupied a low lying area a further three quarters of a mile north-east known as The Carse of Balquhidderock, bounded by the Bannock Burn to the south-east and the Pelstream Burn to the north. Separating the two armies was the steep side of the plateau, now known as Balquhidderock Wood, and some of the low lying carseland.

It seems likely that Robert the Bruce only decided to attack the much larger English army after hearing overnight from a defector, Alexander Seaton, that morale in the English camp was very low following their setbacks on the first day and because of arguments between Edward II and his senior commanders. Whatever the reason for his decision, very early the next morning the Scottish schiltrons emerged from the trees at the foot of Balquhidderock Wood, knelt briefly in prayer, and then advanced steadily on an English army that was forming itself up to attack to the north, towards Stirling Castle, rather than defend against a Scottish attack from the west.

Attacks by English mounted knights on the advancing Scots were repulsed, and the small contingent of Scottish cavalry prevented the English deploying their archers effectively. The Scottish advance was unrelenting, and the English army was simply rolled back on itself, into the narrowing and ever more congested area between the Bannock Burn and the Pelstream Burn. Most of the English tried to escape the way they had come, by crossing the Bannock Burn, but in the panic of a rout, may died in the attempt. Edward II only just escaped after the battle: most of the English knights did not.

A heritage centre was built at Bannockburn in the late 1960s, close to what was traditionally believed to be the site of the main battle. This closed in 2012 to allow the building of the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre you see today. At the same time the Rotunda, standing in the nearby park, and the fine mounted statue of Robert the Bruce were renovated to coincide with the 700th anniversary of the battle.

The new Visitor Centre which opened in early 2014 is home to a reception area and cafe, but its main focus is a remarkable 3D audio visual auditorium, which surrounds visitors with huge screens and places them very much in the heart of the action as the story is told. Backing this up is the Battle Room, in which the story of the battle is told across an interactive recreation of the landscape of the day; and on which groups can try their hand at fighting the battle. The gleeful enthusiasm with which a group of local schoolchildren greeted the news that they were to act as Edward II during our visit was remarkable.

There may now be fairly general agreement about the location of the Battle of Bannockburn, but opinions continue to differ about its true importance. It certainly paved the way for the Treaty of Edinburgh and Northampton in 1328, in which the Regency of Edward III renounced English claims over Scotland: albeit briefly, because Edward III overturned the treaty in 1333. English armies were to invade Scotland at intervals for another two centuries. And whatever might have been gained in 1328 was thrown away in later ill-advised adventures by Scottish kings, most notably James IV's unnecessary foray into England in 1513 in which the Scottish ruling class was effectively annihilated by the English at the Battle of Flodden.

Whatever else it achieved, the Scots' victory at Bannockburn did inspire the writing of the song now considered by many to be Scotland's National Anthem : Flower of Scotland.

The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre

There can be few words as evocative to Scottish history enthusiasts as ‘Bannockburn’. The battle is regarded as a landmark in Scotland’s, long contest for autonomy and independence. Similarly the Battle’s victor, Robert the Bruce, holds a legendary status as a warrior king. 

Legends, though, are rarely true to life. Bruce was a man with flaws, genius, ambition and guilt. The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre and presents an immersive and yet objective interpretation of Bruce the man and the impact of his defining moment. Crucially, we learn too of the battle’s wider impact on its winners, losers and witnesses.

Completed in 2014, marking the 700th anniversary of the battle, the Bannockburn Visitor Centre is lauded for its immersive, technological approach to interpretation. Developed and managed by the National Trust for Scotland the centre quickly became a successful and valued contributor to the local and national cultural economy, welcoming 65,000 visitors in its first year.

As many museum professional will attest, managing visitor expectations is always a challenge. As a visitor having read about the battle numerous times; how the Scottish army used the high and wet ground to their tactical advantage. With that in mind it is it is immediately apparent on arrival that the site looks very different to the medieval battlefield the history books describe to us. Instead the area around the visitor centre resembles an urban park with the town of Bannockburn stretching out beyond.

The building itself is modern and purpose built in 2014. Architecturally the building is dark and austere to look at; in all honesty it struck me as a little bland and corporate in appearance. The building does little to suggest the vibrant and multimedia approach experience to be had within.

With the context of Bannockburn visitor centre providing little in tangible resources, the interpretation focuses largely on the intangible; it is undertaken with commendable success. Bannockburn is a larger than life story in Scotland tumultuous past; here the legend, the facts and their context are impartially and sensitively treated.

The use of storytelling and discourse, across a variety of live and static media, is universally effective, entertaining and informative. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide you are introduced to key historical figures. It is via the perspective of Bruce’s right-hand man, James Douglas that you are regaled with the Scottish case for war. The English case is delivered from the point of view of Isabella of France, wife of the unfortunate Edward II.

Having been enthralled by the animated fables of the battle’s contemporaries you are taken to the impressive battle room. This room comprises of a fully animated 3D table depicted the battlefield and both its contemporary and historical surrounds. This technology is expertly utilised by your guide to demonstrate key points; initially, why the battle was fought in the location and moment it was. This then becomes a short but illuminating presentation on the key decisions made on both side of the battle and their consequences. The animation is truly superb; the guide, on this particular day a battlefield archaeologist, is informative and jovial.

You would be forgiven for feeling at this point that your visit has peaked. However, the weapons room is similarly impressive. There are some good quality replica weapons and uniforms at the centre of the room that, in the pre-Covid world, could be handled. The main purpose of this room however is the animated demonstrations, not too dissimilar from traditional living history demonstrations, of weapons and soldiering of both the English and Scottish armies.

Whilst the interpretation utilises some very impressive and advanced technology it is utilised purposefully. In reality there is a greatly considered layering to the interpretation model at Bannockburn. The danger of feeling disconnected with non-personal animations, regardless of their impressive quality, is mitigated by the guide who presents each piece to you. The guide and the technology are perfectly in sync throughout the tour. The effect, at times, makes you feel as though you have stepped into a well-produced and generously budgeted documentary. Your guide as the presenter will introduce and explain point and the various technological pieces will demonstrate the point. The bonus in this case is that the 3D nature and use of space has a near unique ability to bring digital mediums firmly into the physical context.

The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre is open daily all year round. It is reasonably priced with a family ticket costing just £20. For children it is a valuable resource for learning, the Wars of Independence are a fixture of Scotland’s Curriculum for Excellence and the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom ought not to be missed. It is a must for those within reasonable traveling distance, though it is best to travel by car.

*    *    *

Michael James

Michael James is a freelance museum educator. He has previously worked in heritage site and visitor attractions in the Isle of Skye and Perthshire, Scotland. Michael has an undergraduate degree in English and History and Masters in the History of Scottish Islands and Highlands. Most recently he has completed a PgDip in Interpretation Management and Practice.

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Battle of Bannockburn experience

The Battle of Bannockburn experience immerses you in medieval warfare using state-of-the-art technology, research and the knowledge of an expert guide.

Located on the site where Robert the Bruce raised his standard and assembled the Scottish army in 1314, you will be guided through a series of films and exhibits which depict the events before, during and after the battle.

Witness the sights and sounds of medieval battle first-hand, including ancient battle strategies, weapons and armour. The experience also explores the stories of some of the people who fought, as well as debunking common myths and misconceptions.

Book your tickets for the Battle of Bannockburn Experience