Stirling’s Top Attractions
Ancient castles, battlefields and national heroes
How many historic heroes and legends can you encounter in a visit to Stirling? Rather a lot, for this ancient old town is home to some of Scotland’s most epic events, and the captivating stage for some of the nation’s most romantic, courageous, and memorable figures. Discover Stirling by visiting these top attractions.
Stirling Castle
Absolute must-do’s include the glorious Stirling Castle with its Royal Palace – the fabled walls steeped in plotting and intrigue – as well as the Chapel Royal, the Regimental Museum and loads for younger visitors. From its rocky eyrie, this imposing fortress rewards your stroll up Stirling town’s cobbled main street with spectacular views over beautiful Stirlingshire countryside.
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic stone castles.
The National Wallace Monument
The National Wallace Monument
Stirling’s famous landmark commemorates the life of the patriot and martyr – Sir William Wallace. Situated on the Abbey Craig just outside Stirling, The National Wallace Monument overlooks the scene of Wallace’s greatest victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. The exhibition galleries in the Monument tell the story of how the battle was fought and won, and of the legacy Wallace left behind. Highlights include Wallace’s legendary battle-sword and panoramic views from the top of the 220ft tower.
Old Town Jail
At the Old Town Jail, you can gasp, gulp and gape at tales of the horrible history of crime and punishment in the Royal Burgh of Stirling. You’ll hear of infamous executioner Jock “The Happy Hangman” Rankin, along with murderers, martyrs and more. The popular and much praised performance tours make your time in jail even more vivid.
The Church of the Holy Rude
Church of the Holy Rude
Also close to the castle is another jewel in the city’s crown: The Church of the Holy Rude. Founded in the 12th century, and the second oldest building in Stirling, the Church commands a splendid location on the city’s highest hill. The Church of the Holy Rude was the setting for the coronation of James VI in 1567, in a ceremony performed by revolutionary theologian John Knox. Here you genuinely tread in the footsteps of history and history-makers, in this invitingly walkable city.
Cowane’s Hospital
Cowane’s Hospital
Cowane’s Hospital is a 17th Century Almshouse in the historic city of Stirling and is located in the area known as Top o’ the Town, just below Stirling Castle and opposite the Church of the Holy Rude where King James VI was crowned.
It was established in 1637 with a bequest of 40,000 merks from the estate of merchant John Cowane (also referred to as Auld Staney Breeks) and is considered by Historic Scotland to be ‘a rare survival of 17th Century burgh architecture and one of the finest buildings of its kind in Scotland’.
Guided Walking Tour
You can enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic Old Town with local expert guides. Choose from one of the Guided Walking Tours offered in Stirling.
Walking Tours Scotland
Battle of Bannockburn Experience
To ramp up the action you can immerse yourself in the Battle of Bannockburn Experience. Learn about the medieval combat on the momentous day when king fought king and Robert the Bruce changed the course of Scottish history.
The Battle of Bannockburn experience puts you at the heart of the action.
The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum
Once you escape the jail, why not take in something every bit as fascinating but a little more relaxed, elegant and stylish, such as the Smith Art Gallery & Museum. The treasury of objects and paintings all reflect the culture of the town and the county. Any visit to Stirling is enriched by time spent here, surrounded by portraits of Bonnie Prince Charlie, William Wallace and other notable figures, and astonishing artefacts such as the oldest football (from 1540) and oldest curling stone (1511) on the planet. ‘The Smith’ provides an ideal place to take a break. The Gallery Café will make you most welcome, and there are plenty of picnic spots in the two acres of grounds.
The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum was founded in 1874 with the bequest and collection of the artist Thomas Stuart Smith.
Blair Drummond Safari Park
Lions at Blair Drummond Safari Park
Drive through reserves and get up close to camels, zebras, rhinos, ankole cattle, deer and not forgetting every ones favourite – the lions! With a programme of events throughout the year, an adventure playground and many food and drink outlets, Blair Drummond Safari Park is the perfect way to have a great day out with the family.
Stirling XP
See Stirling like you never have before. Navigate the city with the help of a 3D map, learn more about the attractions above and collect the creatures of Stirling.
