Police have initiated an investigation following the defacement of a historic cave associated with Robert the Bruce by vandals. The King’s Cave at Blackwaterfoot on the Isle of Arran, where legend suggests Robert the Bruce may have sought refuge and found inspiration from a spider, has been damaged, according to officers in Ayrshire.
Historic Environment Scotland recognises the caves south of King’s Cave as a site of national importance due to their diverse uses over millennia. The website states that King’s Cave boasts extensive Early Christian and medieval carvings and could have served as an anchorite’s cell – a secluded dwelling typically used for religious purposes.
As per a tale popularised by Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, Robert the Bruce took shelter in a cave where he observed a spider struggling to weave a web. After two failed attempts, the spider finally succeeded, inspiring Bruce to rally his troops and secure victories against the English.
Despite Forestry and Land Scotland debunking this myth, the King’s Cave trail remains a favourite among walkers. The trail provides stunning views across the Kilbrannan Sound, the stretch of water separating the Isle of Arran from the Kintyre Peninsula in Argyll and Bute.
Sheila Gilmore, chief executive of Visit Arran, a non-profit organisation collaborating with businesses and community groups on the island, cautioned that such destructive behaviour could result in future restrictions on access to the caves.
“To be honest the whole situation has been very upsetting. To think that someone felt their graffiti was of greater significance than cave drawings from thousands of years ago?” said Ms Gilmore.
“It’s a great pity that someone saw the need to deface this incredible site of historical significance – this sort of behaviour could result in the caves being closed to the public.
“VisitArran wants to encourage people to visit our stunning island, and also to respect it, and leave only footprints.”
A Forestry and Land Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of the graffiti and are backing Police Scotland’s efforts to track down the perpetrators of this mindless act of vandalism.
“It is a real shame for people that visit this beautiful and historic area that this has happened. We ask all visitors to respect their natural surroundings and behave responsibly whether that is on FLS managed land or sites managed by other landowners.”
Officers confirmed that because monuments receive legal protection owing to their historic value, damaging them constitutes a criminal offence.
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting incident number 0111 of August 19.
Regarded as one of the most celebrated warriors of his era, Robert the Bruce achieved notoriety for his triumph over the English forces commanded by Edward II at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 – a pivotal confrontation in the Scottish Wars of Independence. The defeat was a significant blow to Edward II’s authority in Scotland.
The battle has had a profound cultural impact, and is referenced in Scotland’s national anthem, Flower of Scotland.