Experience a high at the National Wallace Monument HORRIBLE Histories is undoubtedly having an enormous effect on the current generation of youngsters. The only recollection I have of being educated about Scottish history in primary school is of a field trip to Bannockburn. My daughter, Orla, on the other hand, can name peasants, kings and queens, their crimes, punishments and diseases, and can even combine them all together in a catchy song. Adults who complain about children watching TV really need to think again. A combination of Orla's latest primary school project - William Wallace and Robert the Bruce - and the forthcoming independence election (in which nippers less than half my age will be able to vote) mean it's an appropriate time for a refresher course on the people who shaped our nation. First up is William Wallace and the National Wallace Monument near Stirling. From the car park, visitor centre and cafe there's a free bus with runs regularly up the Craig to the monument itself. Should you have any reservations about the climb it's worth erring on the side of caution; it's steeper than it looks and we hiked past a few families with toddlers who may well have been regretting their decision to walk. There's another climb once inside the 67 metre monument - 246 steps up a narrow stone spiral staircase - so the main attraction itself won't suit everyone. Orla collected an audio handset (£1) at the entrance and there are various markers where commentary on Wallace's life and the features of the building can be heard - so it's quite likely that she still has a better knowledge than I do. The first vaulted room we reach tells the story of William Wallace and the Battle of Stirling Bridge. It contains Wallace's giant broadsword and you can "listen in" on his trial, via a spooky projection. A second vaulted room contains the Hall of Heroes, busts of 16 Scots all of which were generously donated, as were the funds to build the monument itself. The most impressive bust is that of David Livingstone, clad in animal skin with two giant paws as adornment. There are also audio descriptions for all the heroes. The story of the monument's construction is told on the third floor. By this height we were in need of a tonic, but the exhibition failed to catch our attention, though it is a good space to pause and catch your breath before continuing the ascent. The reward for making it to the top is the spectacular panoramic view, which includes the site where the Battle of Stirling Bridge took place. As we leave we meet a soldier from Wallace's army, who has apparently been hanging around since 1297. Dressed in traditional gear and brandishing enough weaponry to take on a small army single handedly, he beckons us to a clearing where we are won over by his enthusiastic chronicle of victory. This is the second high point of our day and we leave thoroughly refreshed. The National Wallace Monument, Abbey Craig, Stirling, FK9 5LF, tel: 01786 472140, info@national wallacemonument.com Winter opening times until 31 March, 10:30am-4pm. Family ticket prices: two adults and two children, £24.25; one adult and up to three children, £21.25.