Tom Weir Statue, Balmaha

A Guide to the Tom Weir Statue in Balmaha, Loch Lomond

Here is a comprehensive guide to the hugely popular Tom Weir Statue in Balmaha, updated to mark its tenth anniversary in December 2024. I was there for the unveiling and have been a regular visitor ever since. In this guide, we’ll reflect on the statue's impact over the past decade. For those planning a visit, you’ll find everything you need to know about this tribute to one of Scotland’s most cherished figures.

A Tribute to Tom Weir

The Tom Weir Statue was unveiled on December 29, 2014, to mark the centenary of Tom’s birth. It honours a man who captured the nation's hearts as a climber, writer, and broadcaster. Tom’s lifelong love of the Scottish outdoors left an enduring legacy, and his work continues to inspire generations to explore and appreciate the country’s natural beauty. Since its unveiling, the statue has become a beloved landmark on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond, attracting visitors from across Scotland and beyond.

A Perfect Location in Balmaha

Set in Weir’s Rest, a peaceful picnic area in the picturesque village of Balmaha, the statue enjoys an idyllic location. Nestled between the tranquil waters of Balmaha Bay and the bustling Oak Tree Inn, it offers breathtaking views of Loch Lomond and some of its islands. Visitors can relax, enjoy a picnic, or take in the scenery, with the statue symbolising Scotland’s rich outdoor heritage. The location also serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, including walks along the West Highland Way, hikes up Conic Hill, and boat trips to Inchcailloch Island.

 

Who Was Tom Weir?

Tom Weir (1914–2006) was a household name in Scotland, celebrated for his warmth, enthusiasm, and storytelling ability. Tom is best known for his iconic television series Weir’s Way (1976–1987), where he explored Scotland’s landscapes, history, and culture. You can watch a clip of this below.

Tom’s relaxed, down-to-earth presenting style made him a trusted guide to the country’s rugged hills and hidden treasures. For over 50 years, Tom wrote a regular column for The Scots Magazine, sharing stories of his adventures and passion for conservation. A respected mountaineer, Tom explored Scotland’s hills and glens long before they became popular with hikers, fostering a deep love for its wild places. With his signature red toorie hat and classic Fair Isle jumper, Tom became as recognisable as the landscapes he loved to explore, embodying the spirit of adventure and curiosity.

The West Highland Way

The public responded enthusiastically to Tom’s programmes and writing, following in his footsteps to explore Scotland’s natural wonders. It is fitting that the statue is on the route of the West Highland Way, Scotland’s first and most popular ‘Great Trail’, which opened in 1980, with Tom one of the first to walk it.

In 1975, Tom wrote an article in Scot’s Magazine about the West Highland Way shortly after the route had been approved by the Secretary of State for Scotland. He shared his desire for the protection of wilderness with minimum signage, and the article became adopted by many as an unofficial guide.

Another early fan of the West Highland Way was musician turned broadcaster Jimmie MacGregor, whose walks for TV and radio along the new trail were to help make it famous. Tom often joined Jimmie on his Macgregor’s Gathering programme on Radio Scotland, and the two shared their love of Scotland’s countryside. Jimmie and writer Cameron McNeish joined Rona for the unveiling in 2014 (see picture below).

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The Creation of the Statue

The stunning bronze statue was created by acclaimed sculptor Sean Hedges-Quinn, known for his remarkable ability to capture the essence of his subjects. Sean carefully portrayed Tom in his familiar outdoor gear, complete with his iconic red hat, walking boots, and rucksack—a fitting tribute to his adventurous life. The level of detail in the statue reflects Sean’s deep respect for Tom’s legacy and the affection felt for him across Scotland. The unveiling ceremony on December 29, 2014, was a touching and emotional occasion. Tom’s widow, Rhona Weir, led the event, joined by close friends and admirers, including broadcaster Jimmie MacGregor and writer Cameron McNeish. The gathering celebrated the statue and the lasting impact of Tom’s life and work.

I contacted Sean recently to ask him to reflect on the creation of the statue, which is one of his favourite ever projects:

From the beginning, it was apparent that Tom was a much-loved and iconic character in Scottish lore. To him, Scotland and Rhona were everything. I felt I had an absolute duty to do him justice and cherished every moment of that challenge. I regularly get sent images of friends and family standing next to Tom. I have an enormous sense of pride in creating his effigy, and it means so much to me that the statue is loved.

Rhona's reaction when Tom's likeness was unveiled for the first time was incredibly touching. It was at that moment, really, that I knew I had done alright. I kept in touch with Rhona until her passing; she was also a remarkable woman.

In the picture below, Sean is pictured on the far right-hand side; between him and the statue is Rhona Weir.

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A Symbol of Community and Conservation

The statue’s creation was made possible thanks to the efforts of the Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs charity, who worked tirelessly alongside the Tom Weir Memorial Group to bring the project to life. The community’s passion for preserving Tom’s memory reflects his championed values—love for nature, adventure, and conservation. Over the last decade, the site at Weir’s Rest has blossomed into a well-loved destination, attracting walkers, photographers, and families. Interpretation boards by the statue tell the story of Tom’s life, the local area, and the surrounding nature, ensuring visitors leave with a deeper appreciation of Scotland’s heritage.

A few years ago, the conservation and heritage charity Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, who played a pivotal role in establishing Weir’s Rest, which is home to the statue, estimated that over one million people had visited the site and popular picnic spot in the Loch Lomondside village.

Back in early 2014, James Fraser, then chair of the Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, enthusiastically supported the Tom Weir Memorial group, led by Susan Taylor, who had approached the charity for help to secure the remaining funds and a site appropriate for the statue before the end of that year.

James's and the Friends' practical support was crucial in securing the Balmaha site and the funds required for the statue's commission. 

Over £250,000 has been spent during the last decade on the statue and site, including a rock garden dedicated to Rhona Weir, who sadly passed away in 2017 not long after opening it.

The picture below was taken at the opening of the rock garden by Rhona Weir; on the far right-hand side is James Fraser and to the left is Lee Stetson an actor who plays the part of John Muir. John Muir (1838–1914) was a Scottish-born naturalist, writer, and conservationist, often referred to as the “Father of National Parks” for his role in establishing protected wilderness areas in the United States.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re visiting the Tom Weir Statue in Balmaha, here’s what to expect. The statue is located at Weir’s Rest, Balmaha Bay, Loch Lomond. Facilities include picnic tables, benches, and nearby parking. The Oak Tree Inn offers food, drinks, and accommodation. Enjoy a picnic by the loch, walk to Conic Hill for stunning views of Loch Lomond, take a ferry to Inchcailloch Island, or explore the nearby West Highland Way trail.

The Impact of the Last Decade

Ten years since its unveiling, the Tom Weir Statue has welcomed countless visitors, becoming an integral part of the Balmaha community and a must-see stop for those exploring Loch Lomond. More than a statue, it celebrates Tom’s values and a reminder of the beauty and importance of Scotland’s natural landscapes. Visitors of all ages are drawn to his story, inspired to explore, appreciate, and protect the countryside that Tom held so dear.

I pass the statue often, and it’s not unusual to see someone posing next to it for a photograph. As the statue enters its next decade, it stands proudly—an enduring tribute to Tom Weir, Scotland’s great outdoorsman and a man whose legacy will live on for generations.

More Local Guides

We have many local guides for the Eastern Shores of Loch Lomond, including Balmaha and Rowardennan. Plus a guide to camping in East Loch Lomond, climbing Ben Lomond and East Loch Lomond Highlights. For more on Tom Weir please see our guide to Tom Weir’s Loch Lomond.

Thanks for reading

Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.

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