MEL Gibson's Braveheart ensured the movie-watching world heard of the courage and ruthless deeds of Scotland's inspirational freedom-fighter Sir William Wallace.
So when we found ourselves in Wallace territory around Glasgow and Stirling, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to visit the National Wallace Monument.
The 67m high monument was built in 1869, although the idea was broached as early as 1810 and a committee had been formed in the 1830s to develop th project honouring the hero.
The result is an impressive tower atop a cliff face in Abbey Craig on Hillfoots Road, Causewayhead, and marks the spot where Wallace rallied his men before the Battle of Stirling bridge - the most famous scene in the film.
For £8.50, visitors can climb the 246 steps to the four floors including the windswept The Crown where the views are worth the admission price alone. They encompass River Forth, a total of 13 battlefields, the city of Stirling including its university and castle, and as far as Ben Nevis, which is Scotland's (and the UK's) highest mountain.
Other floors: tell Wallace's story through a clever audio visual display (first floor) in which he and other historical characters talk about the times; present the busts and beautiful leadlight windows of Scotland's most famous names including Sir Walter Scott, James Watt, and of course The Bard of Scotland Robert Burns in the Hall of Heroes (second floor); and explain how the monument came to be (third floor).
You also will see the Wallace sword and may be lucky enough to enjoy special presentations by costumed actors recreating the times.
Major events are held throughout the year such as the Battle of Stirling Bridge anniversary marking Wallace's triumph over the forces of Edward I, which will be held this year on September 11.
Lesson of the day: Never underestimate the Scots. They delivered some of the most spectacular and diverse scenery of the trip so far, into the Scottish Highlands to Loch Ness.
Long-haired bull count: 1 ( but he was a great specimen, indeed).
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