Stirling

Step inside the majestic Stirling Castle, climb right to the top of the National Wallace Monument to enjoy superb views across the Forth Valley, and travel beyond the city to sample whisky at a local distillery. Discover a place where you can walk through centuries of history, taste delicious food and immerse yourself in nature. 

Stirling, like a huge brooch, clasps Highlands and Lowlands together.

Alexander Smith, A Summer in Skye (1865) 

Step into Stirling’s story 

Walk through and feel the remnants of centuries of history. Explore Stirling Castle, including its impressive Great Hall, ramparts and enclosures, and the Royal Palace, where Mary Queen of Scots spent her childhood. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, and visit the Church of the Holy Rude, a sanctuary of heritage and faith where King James VI was crowned. Before you leave, be sure to stop at the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum to admire the artworks and artefacts or make your way to the top of the National Wallace Monument for sweeping views over the city and to learn about Scotland’s national hero, William Wallace. 

See Stirling from a new perspective

Discover Stirling’s wilder side 

Come face-to-face with curious alpacas, lemurs and wallabies at Blair Drummond Safari Park. Visit the Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve, where plants and animals have adapted to a land that is mostly water. Climb the Ochil Hills and breathe in the fresh air as you soak in the panoramic views of Stirling and the Forth Valley. Or watch red kites soaring through the skies at Argaty, you can even join a beaver tour or jump into an ATV buggy to explore parts that are usually off-limit. 

Discover more nature reserves in the Stirling area

Find your next outdoor adventure 

Stirling and its surrounding countryside are the perfect place to enjoy outdoor adventures. You can discover the wonders of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park with a cycle along forest trails, follow a woodland path to Bracklinn Falls, watch the world go by on a scenic cruise along Loch Katrine, or take to the water on a paddleboard. 

See where Stirling takes you 

Discover the local tastes

Raise a glass to the city on a guided tour of Stirling Distillery or venture further afield to visit Deanston Distillery. Sample locally produced honey in the Stirlingshire countryside or visit the Stirling Farmers’ Market, held twice a month, to discover a variety of fresh local produce and crafts. In the historic Old Town, you can relax in a range of fantastic cafés or pubs, or celebrate a special occasion at Brea, winner of the 2026 Scottish Restaurant of the Year award. And don’t forget the excellent local produce in the surrounding towns, such as Mhor Bread in Callander, and the famous artisan ice cream and sorbet of Achray Farm, near Aberfoyle.  

Discover the flavours of Stirling 

Uncover the city’s royal past, venture beyond the Old Town or discover the nearby villages and landscapes. Experience Stirling’s top attractions with a one or two-day Stirling City Pass, a digital ticket that covers it all. 

Stirling Walking Tours and Stirling GhostWalk

Join a guided tour of Stirling’s historic Old Town. Hear tales of the queens and heroes who shaped the city, and learn about battles, executions and centuries-old buildings and landmarks. Tours in other languages are also available if booked in advance, or learn about the legends and misfortunes of some of the city’s most intriguing former residents with an after-dark tour. 

Learn more about the history of Stirling on a guided tour 

Discover Stirling's mysterious past with the GhostWalk 

Stirling Bike Tour 

See more of Stirling on a guided bike tour of the city and its surroundings. Pause for a breather at historic landmarks and follow quiet routes through woodlands and nearby villages. It’s the perfect way to explore the city at your own pace. 

Experience the beauty of Stirling on two wheels 

Loch Lomond, Stirling and the Trossachs Tours 

Spend the day among nature in the Trossachs and watch the landscape change around you from purple heather hills to deep blue lochs. Then continue to Stirling and wander through the grand halls and royal rooms full of centuries of Scottish history waiting to be discovered. 

Book the tour    

Doune and Deanston Heritage Trail 

Did you know that you can see a memorial clock, join a distillery tour or visit a Roman fort? Take a walk in the fresh air around the quaint villages of Doune and Deanston to learn about the people, communities and places that make them special. Follow the heritage trail map to discover historic and outdoor attractions.  

See where the trail takes you