'Bum' The Dog

Bum the Dog in Edinburgh: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Bum the Dog Monument and Its Significance

Edinburgh’s storied cityscape is home to many monuments, but few are as heartwarming or globally symbolic as the statue of Bum the Dog. This life-sized bronze memorial commemorates Bum, a beloved 19th-century St. Bernard-Spaniel mix from San Diego, California—Edinburgh’s sister city. Installed in 2008 as part of the “Brother Dogs Project,” the statue embodies enduring themes of loyalty, resilience, and community, bridging two cities’ shared histories and canine legends.

Situated within the tranquil grounds of St Cuthbert’s Churchyard, adjacent to Princes Street Gardens and beneath the gaze of Edinburgh Castle, Bum’s statue is freely accessible all year. Its approachable design and peaceful setting invite reflection on the universal values of friendship and compassion that Bum came to symbolize. This guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, including historical context, practical details, travel tips, and nearby attractions.

For those keen to explore Edinburgh’s canine heritage and the city’s broader historical landscape, Bum’s story offers a charming entry point into local and international traditions (Gaslamp Foundation; HMdb.org; Scotsman).

Introduction
Origins and Historical Background
Cultural Significance
Location and Setting
Exact Location
Atmosphere and Surroundings
Visiting Information
Hours and Admission
Accessibility
Tickets and Entry
Guided Tours and Events
Statue Description and Artistic Details
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Experience and Practical Tips
Preservation and Community Engagement
FAQ
Visuals and Media
Conclusion

Origins and Historical Background

Bum the Dog became San Diego’s unofficial “town dog” in the late 1800s, renowned for his friendly, adventurous nature and his ability to unite the community. Arriving as a stowaway in 1886, Bum quickly became a local icon—greeting townsfolk, riding trains and ships, and embodying the spirit of resilience and inclusiveness. His story, rooted in community care and the celebration of the underdog, resonated powerfully across continents (Gaslamp Foundation).

The connection to Edinburgh solidified when the two cities were formally twinned in 1978. In 2008, as part of the “Brother Dogs Project,” San Diego gifted a statue of Bum to Edinburgh, placed near Greyfriars Bobby—the city’s iconic local canine—while San Diego received a replica of Bobby’s statue. This cultural exchange underscores values of loyalty, friendship, and shared humanity (HMdb.org; Historic UK).

Cultural Significance

While Greyfriars Bobby is celebrated for his legendary loyalty to a single owner, Bum’s story is one of communal affection: “owned by no one, loved by everyone.” The pairing of these two canine heroes as “brother dogs” spotlights different forms of devotion—Bobby’s steadfastness and Bum’s resilient independence—uniting their cities in a narrative of compassion and mutual respect (Edinburgh Live).

Bum’s statue stands as a symbol of international friendship and the enduring impact of animal stories in urban folklore (Pet Histories).

Location and Setting

Exact Location

The statue of Bum the Dog is located in St Cuthbert’s Churchyard, at the western edge of Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh’s iconic city-center park. The most convenient entrance is from King’s Stables Road, with the statue near the church’s garden gate (Atlas Obscura; SDtoday; Canmore).

This peaceful spot is beneath Castle Rock, offering a tranquil setting distinct from the busier area surrounding Greyfriars Bobby’s statue about 15 minutes’ walk away.

Atmosphere and Surroundings

St Cuthbert’s Churchyard is steeped in history, with ancient gravestones, mature trees, and well-kept lawns. The church itself is among Edinburgh’s oldest, and the grounds are often described as an oasis of calm amid the city’s bustle (Truly Edinburgh). The statue’s location encourages quiet reflection and connection to Edinburgh’s layered heritage.

Visiting Information

Hours and Admission

Open: 24 hours a day, year-round. No tickets or fees are required.
Recommendation: Visit during daylight for safety and optimal views.
Note: Princes Street Gardens typically open from 6:00 AM to dusk, but the churchyard and statue area remain accessible.

Accessibility

Paths: King’s Stables Road entrance is wheelchair-friendly; some internal paths are uneven due to age.
Transport: Close to Waverley and Haymarket train stations; numerous bus routes pass along Lothian Road and Princes Street.
Parking: Limited street parking nearby; public car parks available, but spaces can be scarce during festivals.

Tickets and Entry

Admission: Free. No tickets or prior booking necessary.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Tours: While there are no tours dedicated solely to Bum, several Edinburgh walking tours include the churchyard and nearby landmarks. Dog-themed tours often highlight the city’s canine heritage (Pet Histories).
Events: Occasional commemorative gatherings celebrate the connection between Edinburgh and San Diego (Gaslamp Foundation).

Statue Description and Artistic Details

Bum is immortalized in bronze, depicted lying down with his head raised and tongue out, his right foreleg a half-length—a nod to a real injury he suffered. The tactile, life-sized design invites gentle interaction and photography. A nearby plaque explains the “canine connection” between the two cities and honors the values of loyalty and friendship embodied by both Bum and Bobby (Canmore).

A charming tradition sees visitors leaving sticks by the statue’s feet, echoing the practice of caring for stray dogs in San Diego (SDtoday).

Nearby Attractions

Princes Street Gardens: Lush parkland with floral displays and castle views.
St Cuthbert’s Church: Historic parish with beautiful stained glass.
Edinburgh Castle: Scotland’s iconic hilltop fortress.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue: The city’s most famous dog, located near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Scott Monument: Gothic spire honoring Sir Walter Scott, featuring the canine statue Maida.
National Museum of Scotland: Engaging exhibits on Scottish history and culture.

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

Best Times to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon for tranquility and soft lighting.
Spring and summer offer vibrant greenery; autumn brings picturesque foliage.

Accessibility and Facilities

Paths: Mostly accessible, but some uneven ground.
Restrooms: Available in Princes Street Gardens.
Cafés and Shops: Found nearby on Lothian Road and Princes Street.
Weather: Prepare for changeable conditions; bring rain gear.

Etiquette

Respect the site: St Cuthbert’s remains an active place of worship.
Photography: Encouraged—just avoid climbing on the statue.
Leave no trace: If leaving sticks, do so thoughtfully.

Preservation and Community Engagement

The statue is maintained by local heritage groups and Edinburgh City Council, with community campaigns promoting gentle interaction to prevent wear. Visitors are encouraged to respect the artwork and help preserve it for future generations (Wikipedia: Greyfriars Bobby Fountain).

FAQ

Q: What are the visiting hours for Bum the Dog statue?
A: Open 24/7; best visited during daylight.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, entry is free.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Walk from Waverley or Haymarket stations; buses serve Lothian Road and Princes Street.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: The main entrance is accessible, though some paths are uneven.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Some walking tours include the statue; check with local providers.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes—please be considerate of others and the monument.

Q: Are there special events?
A: Occasional commemorative events mark the Edinburgh–San Diego connection.

Visuals and Media Resources

View images and interactive maps on official tourism sites and linked sources. High-quality photos and virtual tours help plan your visit (Canmore).

Conclusion

The Bum the Dog statue is more than a monument—it’s a testament to the stories and values that unite communities across continents. Free to visit and nestled in a peaceful corner of Edinburgh’s historic landscape, it invites interaction, reflection, and appreciation of the city’s international ties and canine heritage. Whether you’re a local, a dog lover, or exploring Edinburgh’s rich history, Bum’s story is a delightful discovery.