Greyfriars Bobby Statue Edinburgh
A bronze statue of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier who guarded his owner's grave for 14 years, a beloved Edinburgh legend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Greyfriars Bobby Statue Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bronze statue of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier who guarded his owner's grave for 14 years, a beloved Edinburgh legend.
"A touching symbol of loyalty and devotion, drawing visitors worldwide to pay tribute."
🚫 Don't Rub Bobby's Nose!
Locals dislike this; it damages the statue and isn't a real tradition.
🚶♀️ Visit Bobby's Grave
Find Bobby's actual resting place in Greyfriars Kirkyard for a more profound experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
Junction of George IV Bridge and Candlemaker Row
A touching bronze tribute to a loyal Skye Terrier who guarded his owner's grave for 14 years.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Adjacent to the statue
Explore the historic cemetery and find Bobby's grave, a deeply moving experience for many visitors.
Planning Your Visit
Respect Bobby's Nose!
Combine with Kirkyard Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 Don't Rub Bobby's Nose!
Locals dislike this; it damages the statue and isn't a real tradition.
🚶♀️ Visit Bobby's Grave
Find Bobby's actual resting place in Greyfriars Kirkyard for a more profound experience.
📸 Best Photo Light
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer people.
🚶♂️ Free Walking Tours
Bobby's Tours Edinburgh offers free walking tours inspired by Bobby's story.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 Don't Rub Bobby's Nose!
Locals dislike this; it damages the statue and isn't a real tradition.
🚶♀️ Visit Bobby's Grave
Find Bobby's actual resting place in Greyfriars Kirkyard for a more profound experience.
📸 Best Photo Light
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer people.
🚶♂️ Free Walking Tours
Bobby's Tours Edinburgh offers free walking tours inspired by Bobby's story.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are deeply moved by the touching story of Greyfriars Bobby's loyalty, finding the statue and his grave in the kirkyard to be a poignant and memorable experience. While the statue is a popular photo spot, many note the damage caused by the tradition of rubbing its nose and urge visitors to respect the monument.
"Such a cute story and meaning. Love the homage paid to this beautiful boy! Avoid touching the nose I know it’s tempting at the very least sanitise after … pretty sure it made me sick afterwards 🤮
Memorial in the cemetery will make the toughest bloke cry - the sticks at the gravestone omg. 🥲"
Kerry Houghton
"This is one of the most touching and meaningful stops in Edinburgh. The story of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier who guarded his owner’s grave for 14 years, is known around the world—and seeing the statue in person was a beautiful and emotional experience. It’s located right next to Greyfriars Kirkyard on George IV Bridge and is very easy to visit if you’re walking around the Royal Mile or nearby attractions.
The statue is small but full of character, with Bobby perched proudly atop a drinking fountain. It’s a favorite photo spot for tourists, and understandably so! While many visitors touch the nose for luck (which has made it shiny), signs nearby ask people not to—it’s causing damage over time. Please respect that if you visit.
Don’t miss the short walk into Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you’ll find Bobby’s grave next to his master’s. It’s humbling and beautiful.
📸 Photo tip: Early morning or late afternoon light makes for the best photos, and it’s less crowded.
Such a simple memorial, but it carries a powerful message of loyalty and love. Highly recommend adding this to your Edinburgh trip—especially if you’re a dog lover or appreciate history with heart."
Sundaresan Viswanathan
"Greyfriars Bobby is one of Edinburgh’s most beloved legends — a loyal little Skye Terrier who spent 14 years guarding his owner's grave near Greyfriars Kirkyard. Today, his statue stands as a touching symbol of loyalty and devotion, drawing visitors from around the world to pay tribute to this heartwarming."
Ali Asghar Aghili
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The statue is centrally located at the junction of George IV Bridge and Candlemaker Row, easily accessible on foot from the Royal Mile and other Old Town attractions. Many bus routes stop nearby.
Parking in central Edinburgh is limited and expensive. It's best to use public transport or walk. The nearest car parks are NCP Edinburgh Castle Terrace or Holyrood Road.
The statue is a public monument and can be viewed at any time. However, for safety and better visibility, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
The statue is located on a pavement, and the surrounding area is generally accessible. However, Greyfriars Kirkyard itself has uneven terrain.
Walking is the best way to explore Edinburgh's Old Town. Consider joining a free walking tour that often includes the statue and its history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Greyfriars Bobby statue is a public monument and can be viewed for free.
Greyfriars Kirkyard is generally open daily from dawn until dusk. Specific hours can vary seasonally.
No, entry to Greyfriars Kirkyard is free. However, donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the statue. However, please be mindful of other visitors and avoid touching the statue.
Yes, Bobby's Tours Edinburgh offers free walking tours that cover the story of Greyfriars Bobby and other city tales.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier who, after his owner John Gray died in 1858, spent 14 years guarding his grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard until his own death in 1872.
A modern tradition has emerged where tourists rub Bobby's nose for good luck, but this is not historically accurate and causes damage to the statue.
It's a historic cemetery where Greyfriars Bobby is buried next to his owner, John Gray. It contains many notable graves and offers a poignant glimpse into Edinburgh's past.
Visiting the statue itself is quick, perhaps 10-15 minutes. Exploring Greyfriars Kirkyard can take an hour or more, depending on your interest.
There are several pubs and cafes nearby, including the Greyfriars Bar. Public restrooms may be available in nearby attractions or cafes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the statue is surrounded by numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants in Edinburgh's Old Town, offering a variety of cuisines.
The pub behind the statue is The Greyfriars, a popular spot for drinks and food.
You can find more affordable options like sandwich shops and casual eateries a short walk away from the immediate vicinity of the statue.
Traditional Scottish pub fare, international cuisine, and quick bites are all readily available in the Old Town.
The Greyfriars pub is a popular choice, often recommended for its atmosphere and food, though it can get busy.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light and fewer crowds for photography.
Experiment with eye-level shots, low angles to emphasize Bobby's stature, and wider shots to include the surrounding streetscape.
Visit during off-peak hours (early morning/late afternoon) or be patient and wait for a lull in the crowds.
Beyond the statue, consider capturing the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard and the poignant memorials at Bobby's grave.
Use a moderate aperture for good depth of field, and adjust ISO based on lighting conditions. A polarizing filter can help with reflections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Combine the visit with a walk through Greyfriars Kirkyard to find Bobby's grave. It's a more somber experience but can be a powerful lesson in devotion. Be prepared for potentially uneven ground in the kirkyard. Consider bringing a small, respectful token to leave at Bobby's grave if your children are moved by the story.
🐶 Dog Lovers
Tip: While you can't bring your own dogs into Greyfriars Kirkyard, many visitors enjoy seeing the statue and imagining Bobby's vigil. Consider visiting the Museum of Edinburgh to see Bobby's original collar for an even deeper dive into his history.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tip: Take advantage of free walking tours like Bobby's Tours Edinburgh, which often include the statue and its history, providing great value and local insights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legend of Greyfriars Bobby
This incredible tale of canine devotion captured the hearts of locals and eventually the world. The life-size bronze statue, erected in 1873, stands as a permanent tribute to Bobby's unwavering loyalty. It's a powerful reminder of the deep bonds between humans and animals, and a symbol of enduring love and faithfulness.
While the story is heartwarming, it's important to remember that the statue is a historical monument. The modern practice of rubbing Bobby's nose for luck, though well-intentioned, is causing significant wear and tear. Conservationists and locals urge visitors to admire Bobby from a distance and respect his legacy by keeping his nose intact.
Visiting Greyfriars Kirkyard: A Poignant Experience
The kirkyard itself is a fascinating place, filled with centuries of history and notable figures. However, for those touched by Bobby's tale, finding his simple gravestone, often adorned with small sticks left by visitors as a sign of respect, is a highlight. The juxtaposition of the bustling city outside with the quiet solemnity within creates a unique and memorable atmosphere.
When exploring Greyfriars Kirkyard, remember to be respectful of the site and its inhabitants. The ground can be uneven, so wear comfortable shoes. It's a place for quiet reflection, allowing the stories of the past to resonate.
The Controversy of Bobby's Nose
Social media posts and Reddit discussions frequently highlight the frustration of locals who witness this practice. The constant rubbing has worn down the metal, changing its color and texture. Conservationists warn that this continued wear could eventually compromise the integrity of the monument.
Instead of rubbing the nose, visitors are encouraged to appreciate the statue's craftsmanship and the touching story it represents. The true 'luck' comes from understanding and respecting the legend of Bobby's loyalty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit