Archaeology Notes

Event ID 712032

Category Descriptive Accounts

Type Archaeology Notes

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/712032

NT26SE 19 2803 6319.

(NT 2803 6319) Wallace's Cave (NR)

OS 6" map (1957)

This artificial cave, capable of holding 60 to 70 men, is said to have been a hiding place of Sir William Wallace and others. Its entrance is situated on a ledge 20' high on the cliff face, about 60' from the level of the Esk. The cave extends some 38' into the cliff, with two recesses. Little can be suggested as to the period of occupation as no relics have been found.

NSA 1845; Name Book 1853; F R Coles 1911.

This cave could only be viewed from the opposite bank. A small rectangular opening forming its entrance could just be seen high up in the cliff face, overgrown with thick vegetation. The tradition of occupation by Wallace is still known (J Drummond, Hawthornden Castle).

Visited by OS (JLD) 7 September 1954

This cave, still known as 'Wallace's Cave' is as described.

Visited by OS (SFS) 29 October 1975

Scheduled as 'Wallace's Cave, cave and rock carvings... an artificial cave of unknown date... and a series of rock carvings of prehistoric date in a nearby recess or shelter'.

Information from Historic Scotland, scheduling document dated 5 November 2003.