The Gateway to the Highlands is one of Scotland’s most historic cities, home to medieval landmarks, a picturesque old town and glorious parks.
A city of history and culture, Stirling is the Brave Heart of Scotland. It straddles central Scotland’s Forth River and is a gateway to the magnificent Scottish Highlands.
Get an overview of the city at Stirling Castle. Perched on a hill, it affords uninterrupted views of the city and surrounding countryside. Explore halls and gardens for a glimpse into the lifestyle of former royal residents such as Mary Queen of Scots. Join locals as they welcome in the New Year at the castle during Hogmanay Celebrations, which feature fireworks and live entertainment.
Below the castle, the Old Town is a quaint district of cobblestone streets lined with landmarks. Stroll around the Back Walk to discover several interesting attractions. Go to Argyll’s Lodging to experience the life of 1600s Scottish nobility. Opposite the historic Church of the Holy Rude, join costumed local guides on a Stirling Walking Tour of the Old Town. Enjoy comedy and drama on these entertaining journeys, which cost a small fee.
Take the family to some of Stirling’s public parks. Visit the royal gardens of King’s Knot, famous for its ornamental hedges. Nearby King’s Park has a golf course, children’s play areas and a skate park. Admission is free at the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum where Allie's Garden has been designed with children in mind. Inside the museum, view interesting artifacts including the world’s oldest football.
Use Stirling’s public buses to reach attractions outside the city center. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of medieval combat at the Battle of Bannockburn Experience. This attraction uses 3-D technology to put you in the center of the battle in which Robert the Bruce was victorious over the English. At the National Wallace Monument, a memorial to the Scottish hero, William Wallace, climb 246 to the top and enjoy views over Stirling.
Conveniently set in the heart of Scotland, Stirling is less than 40 miles (64 kilometers) from Edinburgh and Glasgow. The city is a great base for arranging excursions into the Scottish Highlands and other attractions. Cairngorms National Park and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park are both reachable via daytrips.