A fascinating historic city that is bursting with unique experiences, the town of Stirling holds a place dear to Scotland’s heart. As the home to a beautiful monument dedicated to one of Scotland’s most beloved heroes and the location of the victorious Battle of Stirling Bridge, the town offers a rich array of attractions, history and culture unlike any other.

Whether you want to take in the natural beauty by hiking through nearby lochs, discover all the secrets of the medieval castles or just want to spend a blissful afternoon exploring the serenity of the cathedral, there’s something to do for everyone!

• A walk-through Stirling Castle
• Hike to the crown of the Wallace Monument
• Experience the Battle of Bannockburn
• Gape at tales of the Old Town Jail
• Get up close with nature at the Blair Drummond Safari Park
• Finding the best Scottish welcome

A walk-through Stirling Castle

Sitting imposingly on top of a hill, Stirling Castle is a world of intrigue and history and is perhaps the most popular of Stirling attractions. The castle was the key to the kingdom of Scotland and was once home to the members of the Scottish royal family.

The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the fabulous Royal Palace where you will be taken back in time and transported to an age of wealth and decadence.

To add to the impressive atmosphere, you may even see some skeletons that were found buried in the walls of the castle!

The architecture, location, historical significance and breath-taking views combined, make it a grand and memorable site.

It’s often best to visit this Stirling attraction in the afternoon as most tourists come on day trips so there is a high chance you’ll have the place to yourself by 4 or 5 pm!

Hike to the crown of the Wallace Monument

Dedicated to Sir William Wallace, arguably Scotland’s most loved hero, this impressive Stirling attraction can be found overlooking the town from the top of Abbey Craig.

The Monument essentially commemorates the life and legacy of Wallace and overlooks the scene of his greatest victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.

The climb up the narrow staircase leads through three exhibition galleries – The Hall of Arms, The Hall of Heroes and The Royal Chamber - that will take you through the life and learnings of Wallace and how he has been recognised by people through several generations.

You can even admire Wallace’s 66 inch broadsword and look at a recreation of the man in a 3D audio-visual display.

The Monument is just a short walk through the woods on the Craig, or you can even take a free shuttle bus from the car park to the foot of the monument – an option to consider if you want to save yourself walking up a load of stairs.

Either way, from the top you’ll have one of the most impressive view of Scotland and unlike any other you’ll ever behold.

Experience the Battle of Bannockburn

To ramp up your experience through the ages, you can take a trip down to experience the famous Battle of Bannockburn. With advanced 3D technology you can take your place in the battlefield and come face to face with fearless medieval warriors.

You can immerse yourself in the thick combat on the momentous day when king fought king and Robert and Bruce changed the course of Scottish history, forever.

Gape at tales of the Old Town Jail

Perhaps one of the most recent of Stirling attractions is the Old Town Jail. Visitors can take a walk through the site and hear the histories of the punishment – the blood, bizarre and sometimes baffling tales of the Royal Burgh’s heroes and villains.

The popular and much praised performance tours can make your time in jail more vivid so make sure to check this out before visiting this Stirling attraction.

Get up close with nature at the Blair Drummond Safari Park

The Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park is a popular Stirling attraction and a lovely way to end your tour of the city while getting up close and personal with some of the world’s most beloved creatures.

Situated approximately 4 miles from Stirling on the A84 heading towards Doune, this 120-acre property is a beautiful woodland, with many attractions and features that will appeal to visitors of all ages.

You can drive through reserves and get close to camels, zebras, rhinos, deer and even the king of the jungle - lions! The safari park has a programme of events throughout the year, and with an adventure playground and several options for food and drink, it’s the perfect way to have a great day out with the family.

Finding the best Scottish welcome

A proper Scottish welcome is what you need after a walk-through history. The Highland Gate hotel near Stirling is everything you need for a comfortable stay. Located off the M9 motorway and within a few miles of some of Stirling’s greatest attractions including the Stirling castle, the Wallace Monument and Blair Drummond safari park, this will be the ideal location for you.