Greyfriars Bobby statue

The story in bronze

Greyfriars Bobby was the Skye terrier said to have guarded his master's grave in the neighbouring kirkyard for years. The fountain was commissioned by Lady Burdett-Coutts, who led the Ladies' Committee of the RSPCA, shortly before the dog died, and the sculptor William Brodie modelled the life-size statue from life. It was unveiled on 15 November 1873. Bobby's tale of loyalty has been retold in books and films, which is a large part of why the statue draws so many visitors.

A fountain with a past

The granite column once fed a basin for people and a low trough for dogs, with bronze drinking cups on chains. The water was cut off in 1957 and the monument was neglected until a restoration in 1985. It is Category A listed, the highest level of protection in Scotland.

Please don't rub the nose

Many visitors rub Bobby's nose for luck, which is why it shines. The City of Edinburgh Council asks people not to, as it damages the bronze, so take a photo instead. Then walk through the gate into Greyfriars Kirkyard to find Bobby's own headstone, or cross the road to the National Museum of Scotland. Visit early in the morning if you want the statue to yourself, as tour groups and families tend to gather here from mid-morning.

Highlights

• Bronze statue by William Brodie, unveiled in 1873
• Edinburgh's smallest listed building, Category A
• Next to Greyfriars Kirkyard and the National Museum
• Free to see at any time from the street

Good to know

• The council asks visitors not to rub the statue's nose because it damages the bronze.
• It stands on the pavement at the south end of George IV Bridge, so expect a queue for photos at busy times.

Frequently asked questions