Battle of Culblean Memorial Stone

The Culblean Memorial Stone commemorates the bloody battle of Culblean that took place on St Andrews day, 30th November in 1335.

The Battle of Culblean was fought during the Second War of Scottish Independence. The Scots were led by Sir Andrew Murray, son of Sir Andrew Murray (Sir Andrew de Moray) who fought with William Wallace. Murray was a supporter of Robert the Bruce's young son, King David II.

Their opponents in the battle were supporters of Edward Balliol, son of former King John Balliol, who had the military support of King Edward III of England. They were led by the Earl of Atholl (David III of Strathbogie).

Strathbogie after being warned of Murray's approach, led an army of around 3,000 men from Kildrummy Castle to the north of Culblean. Murray split his men into two units, the frontal unit led by Sir William Douglas of Liddesdale blocked Strathbogie's southern march. Once Strathbogie's men attacked the smaller unit, Murray's men attacked the exposed flank and the English forces broke. Strathbogie was killed in a last stand. The Scots were victorious.

Although a relatively small battle, its significance was that it cleared the English from northern Scotland and ended Balliol/Comyn family hopes of regaining the Scottish throne.

The memorial is conveniently placed next to the roadside, not far from the Burn O'Vat Visitors Centre.