Concrete Hippos of Glenrothes in Glenrothes, Scotland

Following World War II, Scotland planned five totally new towns in an attempt to relieve congestion and over-crowding in many parts of central Scotland. In 1968, one of these towns, Glenrothes, became the first new town anywhere in the world to take on a dedicated town artist. As a result of this choice, Glenrothes has an eclectic and somewhat bizzare collection of over 170 art works, all set within its carefully planned urban landscape. Wandering the lanes and backstreets of the town you will stumble upon many bizzare concrete sculptures, from fields of mushrooms to crocodiles. Perhaps the most iconic creations are the numerous concrete hippos that parade across almost every corner of the town. Artist Stanley Bonnar created the first group of hippos in 1972 and they have been much loved ever since, having become something of a town mascot for Glenrothes.

May 9, 2025 - 15:25

Concrete Hippos of Glenrothes in Glenrothes, Scotland

Hippos and mushrooms on display in Glenrothes.

Following World War II, Scotland planned five totally new towns in an attempt to relieve congestion and over-crowding in many parts of central Scotland. In 1968, one of these towns, Glenrothes, became the first new town anywhere in the world to take on a dedicated town artist. As a result of this choice, Glenrothes has an eclectic and somewhat bizzare collection of over 170 art works, all set within its carefully planned urban landscape. Wandering the lanes and backstreets of the town you will stumble upon many bizzare concrete sculptures, from fields of mushrooms to crocodiles.

Perhaps the most iconic creations are the numerous concrete hippos that parade across almost every corner of the town. Artist Stanley Bonnar created the first group of hippos in 1972 and they have been much loved ever since, having become something of a town mascot for Glenrothes.