In the early 1900s the local council ran a competition to design a statue here. The winner was a bronze statue of King Alexaner pointing out to sea. Unfortunately it was too expensive so thy build this pencil instead...

Falk

January 16, 2022

Hiking

This monument, which looks like a gigantic pencil, commemorates the defeat of a Viking fleet at this spot in 1263.
HISTORY
The western islands and coast of Scotland had been under Norse control since the early 12th century. The lords who ruled over the islands and small kingdoms along the coast acknowledged the overlordship of the Norwegian kings. In the middle of the 13th century the Scottish kings Alexander II and his son Alexander III tried to annexe the area to Scotland.

Rafa

October 20, 2024

Hiking

"Named for its rather distinctive shape, The Pencil was built in 1912 as a reminder of the Viking influence over Scotland. Overlooking the Firth of Clyde and standing at around …

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Fairlie Castle from Largs loop — Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park

10.4km

02:54

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Embark on the Fairlie Castle from Largs loop, a moderate hike through Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. This 6.5-mile (10.4 km) route, with an elevation gain of 643 feet (196 metres),…

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Moderate

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#2.

Magnus the Viking Statue – The Pencil Monument loop from Largs

9.44km

02:23

20m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.4

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#3.

The Pencil Monument – Magnus the Viking Statue loop from Kelburn Castle

7.34km

01:51

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 0 m

Weather

Tuesday 5 May

12°C

6°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Largs, West Scotland, Scotland, United Kingdom

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The Pencil Monument

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Fairlie Castle from Largs loop — Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park

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Magnus the Viking Statue – The Pencil Monument loop from Largs

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The Pencil Monument – Magnus the Viking Statue loop from Kelburn Castle

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