Stirling

Known as the smallest city in Scotland, Stirling offers a lot for visitors to see and do with its modern touches. The old town, which is the heart of this ancient city, is what gives Stirling its distinctive appearance. Here is where you can find Stirling Castle which sits on an 80m high volcanic plug. Other castles in Stirling include Doune Castle as well as Castle Campbell and Dollar Glen, both of which have excellent walking areas. Taking the old town trail, you start at the Castle Esplanade car park and follow it into the old town streets past the Smith Art Gallery and Museum before heading to the beautiful parks of Stirling. There is the Doune Ponds, Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Nature Reserve, Plean Country Park, Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and Airthrey Gardens located at the University of Stirling.

Also located at the University of Stirling you can find the MacRobert, a theatre that has been refurbished and is one of the highlights of Stirling. Other theatres include The Albert Halls, The Cowane Theatre, and the Tolbooth. Another popular attraction in Stirling is the Ghostwalk with Jock Rankine’s Spirit Guide. Meeting at the Stirling Old Town Jail you take a walk through the ancient graveyard of Stirling and other areas of the city. There is also the Doon Hill Fair Walk through the woodlands. Also on the skyline is the National Wallace Monument where you can find out more about the city’s history and local heroes Robert the Bruce and William Wallace.

For more attractions you can head to the Smith Art Gallery and Museum, Ailie’s Garden with a willow tunnel and outdoor activities as well as The Changing Room Gallery. Churches in Stirling are a great sight to see such as Holy Trinity Scottish Episcopal Church built in 1875, and The Church of the Holy Rude with its original oak roof beams from the 15th century. Other beautiful churches include The Parish Churge Bridge of Allan and St. Mark’s Parish Church of Scotland.