A Mysterious Cave in Roslin Glen - Wallace’s Cave, Scotland
By David Wheater - ‘Wallace’s Cave’ in Roslin Glen, Scotland
Last week I visited lovely Roslin Glen and took a short video of this incredible cave, hewn from the rock, on the eastern side of the gorge which the lovely River North Esk runs through.
This fascinating and ancient cave is named after Scotland's national hero from the wars of independence, Sir William Wallace, but is also known as 'Hawthornden Castle Cave', after the castle which is located close by.
Wallace’s Cave & the intriguing cup & ring marks (and other ancient art)are a designated Scheduled Monument by Historic Environment Scotland and must be treated with the utmost care & respect.
The cave extends about 12 metres into the cliff and contains two recesses which are very atmospheric and dark. It's thought that it may have been a hiding place of Sir William Wallace, hence its name, and other soldiers during fighting in the Battle of Roslin on 24 February, 1303 nearby. It’s a little vague as to whether Wallace even participated in this battle, but the legend remains!
This battle was a resounding success for the Scots, against all the odds, and was one of the more significant battles in the Wars of Independence. It's thought the cave was first used in prehistoric times and the carvings around the site are thought to be from the Bronze Age. It's a really fascinating place and there's clearly a lot of archaeology still to be discovered here.
I should warn that access is very difficult and potentially dangerous, and should only be attempted by those who are fit and healthy with good balance. The path through the wooded gorge is extremely muddy and very slippy and the steps down to the cave itself are steep and narrow, with a sheer drop over the edge of the cliff face.
IMPORTANT ACCESS NOTE:
Access to this location is very slippy & potentially dangerous with a precipitous cliff edge.
Only attempt if fit & healthy and people know where you are. Visits are made at your own risk and I would only recommend for very experienced hill-walkers who are properly prepared for the slippery & unstable underfoot conditions. Do not take unnecessary risks.
