Famous Scots Tom Weir.

Tom Weir (1914–2006) was a beloved Scottish climber, author, broadcaster, and naturalist, best known for championing Scotland’s natural beauty and its people. He is considered a national treasure and an icon of the Scottish outdoors.

Key Facts and Legacy

1. Weir’s Way (1976–1987)

Weir’s enduring fame comes primarily from his Scottish Television (STV) series, Weir’s Way. Usually clad in his trademark Fair Isle jumper and red bobble hat , he traveled the length and breadth of Scotland, showcasing the landscapes, wildlife, history, and the unique characters who lived in remote areas. The show’s gentle pace, combined with Weir’s enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and engaging style, made it immensely popular, inspiring generations of Scots to explore their own country. The series is still frequently repeated.

2. Outdoorsman and Explorer

Weir’s media career was built on his lifetime of experience as an adventurer:

• Climber: He was a dedicated and accomplished mountaineer. He served as President of the Scottish Mountaineering Club from 1984 to 1986.
• Himalayas: He was a member of the first post-war Himalayan expedition in 1950. In 1952, he was one of the first Westerners to explore the previously closed mountain ranges of Nepal, east of Kathmandu.
• Writer: For over 50 years, he wrote a highly popular monthly column for The Scots Magazine, which contributed to his many books on climbing, nature, and Scottish travel.

3. Environmental Activism

Weir was a pioneering campaigner for the protection of the Scottish environment, advocating for the preservation of wild places and better public access to the countryside. His efforts were recognized when he was awarded the inaugural John Muir Lifetime Achievement Award by the John Muir Trust in 2000. He was also a strong advocate for the establishment of National Parks in Scotland.

4. Tom Weir Statue

A statue commemorating Tom Weir was unveiled on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond at Balmaha Bay in 2014, on the 100th anniversary of his birth. It is a popular spot for walkers on the West Highland Way, capturing him in his signature attire, gazing out over the Loch he loved.