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Stone of Destiny
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The Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny, is an ancient block of red sandstone used for centuries in the coronation of Scottish and later British monarchs. Originally kept at Scone Abbey near Perth, it served as the seat upon which Scottish kings were inaugurated until 1296, when King Edward I of England seized it as a spoil of war. Edward transported the stone to London and built it into the Coronation Chair at Westminster Abbey to symbolize English overlordship of Scotland. The stone remained in London for over 700 years, except for a brief period in 1950 when it was daringly taken by Scottish students. It was officially returned to Scotland in 1996 and is now housed in Edinburgh Castle alongside the Honours of Scotland. Historically, the stone is a potent symbol of Scottish national identity and sovereignty. While legends link its origins to biblical times, geological analysis has proven that the stone was quarried in the vicinity of Scone. Today, the stone is still brought to London for the coronations of British monarchs, maintaining its dual role as a symbol of Scottish pride and United Kingdom constitutional continuity.
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Create a postcard- Location: United Kingdom, United Kingdom
- Highlights: Johnston Terrace Garden · Grassmarket 500th Anniversary Stone · St Columba's by the Castle
- Nearby: Colinton (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 60 | 60 | 53 | 60 | 82 | 92 | 100 | 64 | 93 | 79 | 73 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Stone of Destiny is displayed within Edinburgh Castle's Crown Room. You can view it during castle opening hours, though access to the room may be restricted on very busy days.
Typical hours
Edinburgh Castle typically opens daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, with last admission at 4:00 pm. Check the official website for seasonal variations and occasional closures for state events.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the Crown Room without flash. Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the castle.
Time needed
Viewing the Stone itself takes only a few minutes, but a full visit to Edinburgh Castle requires at least two to three hours. Include time for the Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and the war memorials.
Combine with
Combine with a walk down the Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament. Arthur's Seat and the National Museum of Scotland are also nearby.
Getting there
Edinburgh Castle is at the top of the Royal Mile, accessible by bus from Princes Street. The nearest train station is Waverley, a 15-minute uphill walk away.
Insider tip
Book castle tickets online in advance to skip the long queues at the entrance. Visit first thing in the morning to enjoy the castle before the crowds arrive.
Geography
Facts
- Weighs approximately 152 kilograms and is made of red sandstone.
- Seized by Edward I in 1296 and taken to Westminster Abbey.
- Taken by Scottish nationalist students on Christmas Day in 1950.
- Officially returned to Scotland on November 30, 1996.
- Now kept in the Crown Room at Edinburgh Castle.
- Used most recently in the coronation of King Charles III in 2023.
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Sights in the town Stone of Destiny (10)
Gatehouse
Gatehouse in City of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. It is a historic building at Edinburgh Castle.
Half-Moon Battery
Bastion at Edinburgh Castle in Scotland. It provides a wide view over the city.
The Hub
Assembly hall in Edinburgh, UK. It houses the Edinburgh International Festival.
Castle Rock
Volcanic rock in the middle of Edinburgh, United Kingdom. Edinburgh Castle sits on top of it.
General Assembly Hall
Multi-purpose venue in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. It is used for conferences and performances.
Prisoners of War Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Edinburgh, Scotland, dedicated to prisoners of war. It is located at Edinburgh Castle.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Stone of Destiny?
An ancient block of red sandstone used for centuries in the coronation of Scottish and British monarchs.
Where is the stone located now?
As of 2024, the stone is permanently displayed at the new Perth Museum in Scotland.
Was the stone ever stolen?
Yes, in 1950, four Scottish students famously removed it from Westminster Abbey to return it to Scotland.
How old is the stone?
Geologically, the sandstone is local to Scone. Its ceremonial use dates back at least to the 9th century.
Is it allowed to touch the stone?
No, the stone is a priceless historic artifact kept behind protective glass and cannot be touched.
Stone of Destiny: where is it located?
Stone of Destiny is located in United Kingdom, United Kingdom.
Stone of Destiny: what is there to see?
Highlights include Johnston Terrace Garden, Grassmarket 500th Anniversary Stone, St Columba's by the Castle.
Stone of Destiny: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Stone of Destiny: why is it worth visiting?
The Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny, is an ancient block of red sandstone used for centuries in the coronation of Scottish and later British monarchs.
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