Braveheart: 30th anniversary of Stirling premiere of William Wallace epic starring Mel Gibson

Thirty years ago, Hollywood descended on Stirling to mark the European premiere of Braveheart.

The sweeping epic, which went on to win five Oscars including best picture and best director, brought Tinseltown to the small city in the Central Belt on September 3, 1995.

Held at the Macrobert Theatre at the University of Stirling, the premiere was attended by director and leading man Mel Gibson alongside other key cast members.

A private party was later held at Stirling Castle, with thousands lining the streets hoping to get a glimpse of the stars.

Mel Gibson attends the premiere of Braveheart in Stirling, Scotland. 3rd September 1995. (Photo by Staff/Mirrorpix/Getty Images) Getty Images

Catherine Zeta Jones at the Braveheart European premiere, Stirling, September 3 1995 STV News

James Cosmo signing autographs at the Braveheart European premiere, Stirling, September 3 1995 STV News

Mel Gibson at the Braveheart European premiere, Stirling, September 3 1995 STV News

Crowds gathered at the Macrobert Centre at Stirling University for the film's premiere — Crowds gathered at the Macrobert Centre at Stirling University for the film’s premiere STV News

Jackie Stewart attends the premiere of Braveheart in Stirling, Scotland. 3rd September 1995. (Photo by Staff/Mirrorpix/Getty Images) Getty Images

Tourism boom

The film, which took the story of William Wallace to audiences worldwide, went on to generate £109m at the box office – and delivered a welcome boost to the tourism sector in Stirling and wider parts of Scotland.

Stirling’s Wallace Monument, which pays tribute to the Scottish hero, saw visitor numbers jump to 135,000 per year in the decade following the film’s release. Its popularity remains, welcoming 133,297 visitors during the 2024/25 season.

A private party was held at Stirling Castle following the premiere on September 3, 1995 Getty Images

The popularity of William Wallace has shown no sign of slowing interest among tourists, with a recent VisitScotland survey finding Braveheart among the top films to inspire a visit to Scotland.

Stirling Council leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey said: “It’s astonishing, that 30 years on, Braveheart remains a key driver for visitor numbers to the National Wallace Monument, Stirling and Scotland.

“We are proud of Stirling’s central role in the history of the nation and thanks to Braveheart, millions of people across the world have been inspired to come here and learn more about Wallace and Scotland’s story and see everything else we’ve got to offer.”

VisitScotland’s regional director, Lynsey Eckford, added: “Braveheart raised the profile of Stirling with film fans inspired to seek out the real history behind William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, helped, no doubt, by the premiere taking place in the shadow of the Wallace Monument.

“The film is a fine example of the long-term impact of screen tourism. It goes beyond the attractions and filming locations, to accommodation providers, hospitality and retailers, supporting the local visitor economy.

“Considering visitors are still talking about Braveheart 30 years on, that impact could be felt for many more years to come.”