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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Edinburgh, solo trip

Greyfriars Bobby Statue (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Greyfriars Bobby Statue?

81%Solo-Friendly
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What makes it 81% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can stop anytime for a free photo and read the plaques; the spot is safe, central and quick, though it offers no seating, shelter or extended activities.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 2,099 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free entry: Visiting the statue and kirkyard costs nothing, ideal for tight budgets.
  • Compact area: All highlights lie within a few minutes’ walk of Candlemaker Row.

Challenges:

  • Crowded midday: Tour groups often gather around noon, making photos busy.
  • Limited shelter: No overhead cover at the statue in rain or wind.
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🏖️ Explore Greyfriars Bobby Statue with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Greyfriars Bobby Statue. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Greyfriars Bobby Statue?

  • A bronze life-size sculpture depicting a 19th-century Skye terrier named Greyfriars Bobby, celebrated for his fourteen-year vigil by his owner’s grave
  • Commissioned in 1873 by philanthropist Lady Burdett-Coutts as a memorial adjoining Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh
  • Installed atop a circular granite fountain on George IV Bridge, the statue melds Victorian artistry with the Old Town’s historic streetscape

What is so special about Greyfriars Bobby Statue for solo trip?

  1. See the life-size Skye terrier statue for free
  2. Join a donation-based Potter Trail tour from the statue
  3. Wander Greyfriars Kirkyard’s historic tombs and Covenanters’ Prison
  4. Relax at a themed pub named after Bobby
  5. Combine with a quick stop at the National Museum of Scotland

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to see the statue, wander the kirkyard, join a Potter Trail tour, and grab a drink nearby.

(View Greyfriars Bobby Statue on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Greyfriars Bobby Statue

Visit the Bobby statue and fountain:

Read the plaque recounting Bobby’s 14-year vigil by his owner’s grave.

Tip: Stand on the raised curb for an unblocked photo of the life-size terrier.

Join the Potter Trail walking tour:

Follow a free, donation-based Harry Potter–themed route starting at the statue.

Tip: Book online in advance and bring small change for tips.

Explore Greyfriars Kirkyard:

Wander among historic tombs and find Bobby’s actual grave marker.

Tip: Use the public pathways to see Covenanters’ Prison and old headstones.

Have a drink at Greyfriars Bobby Bar:

Enjoy Scottish ales or whiskies in a pub named after the loyal terrier.

Tip: Try a local real ale; card payments speed up ordering.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Greyfriars Bobby Statue

  1. Visit early: Arrive before 10 am to avoid crowds and capture clear photos.
  2. Contactless payment: Use cards at nearby cafés and pubs to skip cash lines.
🏖️ Tour Greyfriars Bobby Statue like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Greyfriars Bobby Statue. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Greyfriars Bobby Statue

Powered by Google
kurt collett

kurt collett

Sep 2025

It was wonderful to see his statue and to read the story behind Grayfriars, Bobby and then if you’re standing at the statue turn completely around 180° walk up a little bit and you’ll see there’s an entrance to Grayfriars cemetery where you can actually go in right there and there is another monument and his tombstone is erected right there

Feyzullah YAKUT

Feyzullah YAKUT

Sep 2025

One of the most heartwarming sights in Edinburgh is the Greyfriars Bobby statue. Wherever you wander around the Old Town, this little dog’s story of loyalty and love follows you. A touching symbol you simply can’t miss.

Kerry Houghton

Kerry Houghton

Aug 2025

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. 🥲

Sundaresan Viswanathan

Sundaresan Viswanathan

Jul 2025

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 o...

Ali Asghar Aghili

Ali Asghar Aghili

Apr 2025

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.

When is the best time to visit Greyfriars Bobby Statue (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?

Winter can be windy and rainy—carry a waterproof layer. Summer evenings offer long daylight and quieter pathways after 6 pm.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Edinburgh on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Statue and kirkyard visitGBP 0
Potter Trail donationGBP 5
Pub drinkGBP 7
Snack or coffeeGBP 3
Total EstimatedGBP 15

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Greyfriars Bobby Statue

Address: Edinburgh Old Town, Edinburgh EH1 2QQ, UK

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About Greyfriars Bobby Statue

Opening Hours

Monday:Open 24 hours
Tuesday:Open 24 hours
Wednesday:Open 24 hours
Thursday:Open 24 hours
Friday:Open 24 hours
Saturday:Open 24 hours
Sunday:Open 24 hours

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

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