Weir’s Way

In Balmaha stands a lifelike statue of one of Scotland’s greatest hikers, writers and broadcasters -Tom Weir, a man of small stature but enormous character.

Born in Glasgow, Tom gazed across to the hills outside the city from an early age and knew, that was where he wanted to be. He joined climbing expeditions all over the world, but his heart lay in Scotland, eventually settling in Gartocharn just south of Loch Lomond.

His experience led to a career as a writer, running a column in The Scots magazine for 50 years. Writing soon turned into broadcasting and Weir's Way became a favourite on TV screens around the country. Tom spent the episodes exploring Scotland's landscape, nature and history while wearing his iconic toorie hat and Fair Isle jumper, but that wasn’t what made the show so interesting. He interacted with people from all around the country, giving viewers an insight into completely different ways of life.

This national platform was put to good use and Tom campaigned tirelessly to protect Scotland’s natural environment. He was awarded an MBE in 1976 and the first ever John Muir Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000. Living to the grand age of 91, Tom is proof if we ever needed it that getting out and about in the Scottish countryside is good for our health.

The statue was unveiled in 2014 on what would have been his 100th birthday and has become an iconic stop on the West Highland Way. The small man with the big personality remains an inspiration for those who love Scotland, especially if they want to write or talk about it.