11 Must-visit hidden gems in Stirling

The Church of The Holy Rude, built on the Castle rock at the top of Stirling Old Town, has witnessed over 900 years of history. It was the crowning place of King James VI of Scotland, and even bears bullet marks from past battles.

Visit for peaceful reflection, impressive architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. Make sure to explore the atmospheric cemetery too, which offers views across to Stirlingshire and The Trossachs.

Take a mini road trip north of Stirling through 'Rob Roy Country' on the BLiSS Trail to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Explore Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre and St Fillans by car or by bike and look out for over twenty specially commissioned pieces of artwork on the way. Cameras at the ready!

Located a short distance from the fortress that guards the city of Stirling lies a unique building dating from the 17th century. It was built as a refuge where locals who had fallen on hard times would be cared for. It’s since undergone an extensive restoration which has seen its period features restored to their former glory, including exquisite stained-glass windows and the statue of its founder, John Cowane. Nicknamed “Auld Staneybreeks”, he’s said to come alive on the stroke of midnight on Hogmanay.

The building is free to enter and has its own café.

Learn more about a family-run farm in the heart of Scotland, just 7 miles outside of Stirling. Explore 300 acres of lush farmland with a farm tour to see Highland coos, sheep, pigs and free range hens. It's a great way to reconnect with Scotland's countryside and you can even sample the results of their sustainable farming with tastings of their award-winning eggs, Highland beef, pork lamb, greens and tatties. 

You can even book your accommodation in the quaint Old Leckie Farmstay, which has beautiful views of rolling hills. It also overlooks the iconic Scottish Towerhouse which dates back to the 1530s and was even visited by Bonnie Prince Charlie!

This stunning country home dates back to the 14th century and has been visited by guests including Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. It hosts a permanent exhibition telling the story of the house, grounds and surrounding area including Roman pottery fragments, paintings and industrial era objects. 

Take some time to explore the extensive grounds, which include a portion of the Antonine Wall - an UNESCO World Heritage Site from the Roman frontier dating back to 142 AD. 

Offering great views of Stirling, the Forth Valley and The Trossachs, Dumyat is a wee hill at 1371 ft (418 m) but it packs in a lot of character. The most eastern of the rolling Ochil Hills, it can be scaled in a couple of hours.

Visible from the castle esplanade but often overlooked by first time visitors, the ancient King's Park was once royal grounds used for jousting, hawking and hunting.

Still a place of leisure, it's now home to a skate park and BMX track, a fantastic outdoor play area, tennis courts and lots of green space to enjoy. The park is also neighboured by Stirling Golf Club.

Kinneil Estate and Museum is a must-visit hidden gem for any history lover. The house and grounds are perfect for all the family to explore and enjoy, with heritage trails, a museum and a 17th century house built by the Dukes of Hamilton.

Discover the rich heritage and history of the estate, including its associations with famous Scottish figures, Mary Queen of Scots and James Watt. The Antonine Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site also runs through the estate, so you can find out more about the deserted remains of a medieval village, ruined church and fortlet of the ancient wall. 

If you fancy getting out of the busy city for a while, enjoy a visit to Plean Country Park. Located just south of Stirling city centre, explore over 70 hectares of accessible woodland and parkland, with a network of paths, ideal for walking and cycling. Open all year round, the park is home to 80 different species of birds, as well as roe deer, rabbits and foxes roaming freely too, so keep your eyes peeled and cameras at the ready.

Journey north east of Stirling to Venachar Lochside and you won't be disappointed. Located in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, this waterside restaurant is an oasis of calm, serving up meals made with fresh Scottish produce against a stunning backdrop.

Cambuskenneth Abbey can be reached by road or on foot from Stirling. The abbey grounds are free to enter and feature a magnificent 13th century bell tower, as well as church and monastery ruins.

It was the burial place of James III and amongst the graves there is a Victorian tomb created in honour of him and his wife, Queen Margaret.