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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Best Hikes to The Pencil Monument

5.0

(1)

hikers

1. Fairlie Castle from Largs loop — Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park

10.4km

02:54

200m

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

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Moderate

3.6

(7)

142

hikers

2. Magnus the Viking Statue – The Pencil Monument loop from Largs

6.28km

01:36

20m

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

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Easy

4.4

(5)

hikers

3. The Pencil Monument – Magnus the Viking Statue loop from Largs

7.03km

01:47

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

Today

Sunday 25 January

8°C

6°C

78 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 37.0 km/h

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Location: Largs, West Scotland, Scotland, United Kingdom

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View of Largs and the Firth of Clyde

The Pencil Monument

1. Fairlie Castle from Largs loop — Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park

2. Magnus the Viking Statue – The Pencil Monument loop from Largs

3. The Pencil Monument – Magnus the Viking Statue loop from Largs

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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