Stirling tourist information

The city of Stirling is Scotland at its best, a fine stone-built town with a wealth of character and a history that has shaped the nation.

Chosen by Scottish Royalty as their principal residence for centuries, magnificent Stirling Castle is set high on a rocky crag and dominates the city. Dating from at least as far back as the 12th century, massive fortifications and splendid buildings were added by later monarchs, such as the beautiful Renaissance palace and a sumptuous medieval banqueting hall. Mary Queen of Scots was crowned here at the tender age of 9 months. The castle is also home to the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum.

The city has a great number of other historic buildings which make it a wonderful place to visit, stroll, shop, and discover more about its fascinating past. These include the beautiful ruins of Mars Wark, the impressive 17th century mansion known as Argyl's Lodgings, the Church of the Holy Rude, and the Old Jail.

These are all found within Old Town, the ancient quarter of the city complete with fine houses and cobbled streets. The lovely Old Stirling Bridge crosses the River Forth and dates from the 15th century.

You will find the Stirling tourist information centre at the Old Jail in St John Street.

Stirling's Tolbooth was built in 1705 and was once a court and jail. It is now a popular music and arts venue, and typifies Stirling's easy blend of the old and new. This vibrant University city is has a great range of cafes, restaurants and nightlife which caters for both traditional and modern tastes.

The decisive battle of Bannockburn was founght nearby, where Robert the Bruce defeated the English army in 1314 against overwhelming odds. There is now a National Trust for Scotland Heritage Centre on the site.