BBC Radio 2 in the Park is Coming to Stirling!
Friday 11th – Sunday 13th September 2026 | Stirling City Park, Stirling
BBC Radio 2 in the Park 2026 is heading to Stirling City Park from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 September. The station’s annual flagship live music festival, is a three-day music event featuring performances from some of the world’s biggest musicians alongside DJ sets on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday from the station’s much-loved presenters.
Check-out the Line-up!
Chaka Khan headlines Saturday night, with Simple Minds headlining Sunday – their only UK performance this year. Also performing over the weekend is The Script, Emeli Sandé, Lulu, Texas, James Blunt, Deacon Blue, and more, with the Friday’s festival Pre-Party featuring Gary Davies’ Sound of the 80s, Rylan’s Rybiza Anthems, and more.
Welcome to Stirling City Park – A Historic Concert Setting
As you arrive for Radio 2 in the Park, you’re stepping into one of Scotland’s oldest and most atmospheric green spaces. Stirling City Park forms part of Stirling’s Royal Park, a landscape with roots stretching back to the 12th century, when it was created for Scotland’s kings and queens.
For hundreds of years, this area was a private royal playground, used exclusively by monarchs and their guests. Every monarch from David I to James VI spent time here, including Mary Queen of Scots, who hunted in these very grounds.
To the east of where you’re standing lies the King’s Knot, the best preserved medieval garden in Scotland. Its dramatic earthworks were once seen as King Arthur’s Round Table, adding myth and majesty to the royal setting. The wider park even included Scotland’s earliest purpose built deer park, complete with ornamental water features and space for tournaments and displays.
Today, the park is a vibrant public space – perfect for bringing people together for cultural events just like this one. So, not only will you be enjoying a weekend of great music, you’ll be sharing a space shaped by centuries of history, legend, and celebration.
Getting Here
BY ROAD
Stirling is linked to Scotland’s motorway and trunk road network including the M9/A9 to Edinburgh, Perth and Inverness and the M80 to Glasgow.
Travelling distances to Stirling
| From | Miles | Kilometres | Drive time |
| Aberdeen | 121 | 195 | 2 hrs 5 mins |
| Dundee | 56 | 90 | 1hr |
| Edinburgh | 36 | 57 | 50 mins |
| Edinburgh Airport | 30 | 49 | 40 mins |
| Glasgow | 26 | 42 | 30 mins |
| GlasgowAirport | 36 | 57 | 45 mins |
| Inverness | 144 | 233 | 2hrs 45 mins |
| Birmingham | 305 | 491 | 5hrs |
| Cardiff | 407 | 656 | 7hrs |
| Leeds | 235 | 378 | 4hrs |
| London | 418 | 673 | 7hrs 30 mins |
| Manchester | 229 | 369 | 4hrs |
| Newcastle | 156 | 252 | 3hrs |
BY RAIL
Stirling is about 35 minutes from Glasgow (Queen Street Station) and 50 minutes Edinburgh (Haymarket and Waverley stations) with three direct services an hour from Glasgow and two from Edinburgh. There are also direct services to London, Aberdeen, Dundee and Inverness. The Railway station is located 2 minutes walk from the city centre.
For timetables go to travelinescotland.com or call Traveline on 0870 608 2608.
BY COACH
There is an hourly non-stop coach service from Glasgow and Edinburgh, taking 40 minutes and 1 hour respectively, as well as regular bus services to the Scottish cities and towns like St Andrews and Perth. The modern bus station which has a café and left luggage lockers is open Mon-Sat 06.30-22.00 Sun 10.00-18.00.
For timetables go to travelinescotland.com or call Traveline 0870 608 2608 or Stirling Bus Station 01786 446474.
BY AIR
Most travellers arrive at Edinburgh, Glasgow or Glasgow Prestwick airports which all have branches of leading car hire operators and taxi services.
Edinburgh Airport – a 24 hour bus service, every 10 mins at peak times and 30 mins at night, leaves outside the terminal and stops at Haymarket Terrace for direct rail and bus services to Stirling. Journey time – 20 mins.
Glasgow Airport – a quarter hourly bus service taking around 25 mins leaves from outside the terminal and stops at Buchanan Street Bus Station for direct services to Stirling. Queen Street Railway Station is a five minute walk.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport – a half hour train service (hourly on Sundays) runs to Glasgow Central Station 06.00-23.08. The journey time is 45 mins. Queen Street Station, the terminus for Stirling trains is less than a ten minute walk. A free shuttle bus also links the two stations every ten minutes.
Stay in Stirling
With a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget, from stylish hotels to self-catering apartments to cosy B&Bs and campsites outside of the city-centre, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Stirling for BBC Radio 2 in the Park. Enjoy the convenience of staying within walking distance to the festival site and take the opportunity to explore Stirling’s historic attractions and vibrant food and drink scene throughout your visit.
King Street Aparthotel
Located in the heart of Stirling city-centre and a 19-minute walk to the BBC Radio 2 in The Park grounds, King Street Aparthotel combines boutique style with modern comfort in a beautifully restored historic building. Its central location makes it an ideal base for festival-goers and visitors alike, with easy access to Stirling Castle, the National Wallace Monument, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, and nearby cities including Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee. Thoughtfully designed rooms and suites offer everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable stay.
The Golden Lion
For more than 200 years, The Golden Lion has welcomed guests through its iconic stone entrance, including royalty and Scotland’s celebrated national bard, Robert Burns. Blending historic character with modern comfort, this independently owned hotel offers 66 stylish rooms, renowned Scottish hospitality, and the perfect base for enjoying the festival weekend. The Golden Lion is located in Stirling city-centre and is a 19-minute walk to the BBC Radio 2 in the Park grounds.
Colessio
Set within a striking neoclassical building, Colessio is a boutique bed and breakfast in central Stirling, offering a calm and characterful place to stay. With thoughtfully designed interiors, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere, Colessio blends historic architecture with modern comfort. Colessio is ideally located for discovering Stirling’s historic streets, independent shops, cafés, and cultural attractions. From Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument to scenic walks and local dining, everything is within easy reach. Colessio is a 19-minute walk to the BBC Radio 2 in the Park grounds.
Stirling Highland Hotel
The Stirling Highland Hotel is a Victorian gem just minutes from Stirling Castle. Stay in spacious rooms, unwind in the luxury spa, and dine at Scholars Restaurant. With stunning wedding venues and event spaces, it’s the perfect base for exploring Stirling, celebrating special occasions, or enjoying a peaceful escape. A 20-minute walk to the BBC Radio 2 in the Park grounds.
Stirling Court Hotel
Stirling Court Hotel is located on The University of Stirling Campus, and sits beneath The National Wallace Monument. All bedrooms at the hotel feature en-suite bathroom with bath and shower, tea and coffee making facilities, flatscreen TV with Freeview, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, trouser press and a well-lit desk area with complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel. Stirling Court Hotel offers 24 hour reception and room service for light snacks and drinks, with hot meals from our breakfast, lunch and dinner menus available during normal restaurant hours.
Further Accommodation Information
VisitScotland map
Search for Accommodation in Scotland
Caravan and Camping
SiteSeeker – The Camping and Carvanning Club
Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park specific
Motorhomes and campervans in the National Park
National booking platforms
Things to Do in Stirling: Must-Visit Sites & Experiences
Make the most of your time in Stirling by discovering some of Stirling’s top attractions and unforgettable experiences. From iconic historic landmarks and fascinating museums to scenic boat trips, wildlife parks and award-winning distillery tours, Stirling offers a taste of Scotland and something for every visitor. Make the most of your stay by exploring the city’s rich history, stunning landscapes and unforgettable attractions.
Stirling Castle
No visit to Stirling is complete without exploring the magnificent Stirling Castle. Home to the beautifully restored Royal Palace, the Chapel Royal and the Regimental Museum, this iconic fortress is steeped in centuries of history, royal intrigue and legendary battles, with plenty to keep visitors entertained . Perched high above the city, the castle rewards the walk up Stirling’s charming cobbled streets with breathtaking views across the surrounding Stirlingshire countryside.
The stunning picturesque backdrop to BBC Radio 2 in the Park, experience one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks while you’re in town!
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 over Stirling from the top of the 220ft tower.
Old Town Jail
At Stirling’s 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.
Stirling Distillery
Situated beneath Stirling Castle, discover the story behind Stirling Distillery with a guided tour and whisky experience that explores Stirlingshire’s rich distilling heritage and the journey towards creating its very own single malt whisky. Visitors can also enjoy the Old Smiddy Gin School, where you’ll craft your own bespoke gin to take home with a personalised label, or take part in a fun and interactive cocktail masterclass to perfect your mixology skills. Whether you’re a whisky lover, gin enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, Stirling Distillery has something to offer!
Radical Weavers
Step into the enchanting world of weaving at Radical Weavers, an independent charity studio in Stirling. Immerse yourself in hands-on craft courses where heritage and culture intertwine, offering the chance to learn the art of weaving while exploring Scotland’s rich textile history. Choose from a range of workshops (including designing and weaving your own tartan!), and get creative with this truly hands-on Scottish experience.
The Haggis Experience
The Haggis Experience is a one-of-a-kind Scottish experience invites that visitors to discover the history of haggis, take part in a hands-on masterclass in haggis making, and finish with a delicious two or three-course meal. All sessions can be fully tailored to your group’s specific requirements and interests, making it ideal for both small and large groups looking for a unique and memorable culinary experience in Scotland.
And there’s so much more to discover in Stirling. Find all the inspiration you’ll need for your visit by clicking the button below.
Eat and Drink
Foodie Favourites
Whether you are after exciting street food or a five star dining experience, there are plenty of options for food and drinks in and around Stirling.
Friend of Mine, Bridge of Allan
Explore Now
Take Home the Perfect Souvenir of your time in Stirling!
Made In Stirling
Made in Stirling is an independent shop located on 44 King Street showcases a carefully curated collection of locally made gifts, crafts, and artwork created by talented Scottish makers. From unique keepsakes to thoughtful handcrafted pieces, it’s the ideal place to find a meaningful reminder of your visit while supporting local artisans.
