Macduff's Monument

For us old-schoolers, the tales of Macbeth, Macduff and King Duncan were thrust upon us during our English Lit lessons. Although Shakespeare wove a canny tale, these characters were actually based on real Scottish history. So we thought we would seek out some places relating to the Bard's yarn and found Macduff's Monument.

The Macduff Monument is located on Murrayshall Hill which is just on the outskirts of Perth. It stands at around 4.5m and though it is partially ruined, it's a spectacular feature on the landscape and can be seen from a distance. Obviously that means there are cracking views from the top too.

This 18th-century commemorative tower was built by the MacDuff family who were former landowners of the nearby Bonhard House. There no direct historical connection between the Macduff Monument and Macbeth, the Shakespearean character or the historical figure on whom he was loosely based, which is a shame.

For those of you who have so idea what any of this is about, then Macduff was the Thane of Fife and was remembered for his role in the overthrow of Macbeth, who ruled Scotland in the 11th century. According to legend, it was Macduff who killed Macbeth at the Battle of Lumphanan in 1057, helping Malcolm Canmore reclaim the throne. Shakespeare puts a slightly different spin on the events.

If you fancy a visit to Macduff's Monument, then from the road look for the little finger post pointing the way and there is a clear (and muddy) path all the way to the top.

It's only 600m to the top, but all uphill with 99m of climbing.

From the monument you will also see the nearby Lynedoch Obelisk which is just a quick trot away on the next hill.