15 of the best things to do in Stirling
Stirling is a relatively small city about an hour away from both Glasgow and Edinburgh with plenty of history. It also sits at the gateway to the Highlands and is a short drive away from one of Scotland’s National Parks; Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
One of the city’s most significant landmarks is the iconic Stirling Castle, which sits high above the rest of town. It’s one of Scotland’s most culturally relevant castles, with a fascinating history that dates back to the 12th century. Today, it remains one of the best things to do in Stirling and can easily take several hours to explore.
It’s not only the castle that’s worth seeing in Stirling. The Old Town in Stirling is beautiful with cobbled streets and beautiful buildings.
There’s also the Wallace Monument Stirling nearby, mountain views, great restaurants, museums, and more.
To help you make the most of your visit to Stirling, I’ve put together a list of the top things to do in Stirling. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history or getting outdoors, my list has something for everyone.
Table of Contents
Best things to do in Stirling Scotland
1. Visit Stirling Castle
Located just 30 minutes outside of Callander, Stirling Castle is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.
The castle has significant historical and architectural significance, with most of its buildings dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Once the most famous royal residence in Scotland, with kings and queens throughout Scottish history being born or crowned there, including Mary, Queen of Scots, today, the castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a popular tourist attraction.
Some of the highlights of Stirling Castle include the Great Hall, Queen Anne Gardens, the Palace Vaults, and the Chapel Royal.
While guided tours are available, you can also just explore the castle on your own. Just be sure to book your timed tickets ahead of time for guaranteed entry.
When I visited I was surprised at just how much there was to see in the castle, my favourite part was walking the castle walls towards the far end of the entrance, and enjoying the views out towards the hills of the Trossachs National Park.
You can buy Stirling castle tickets in advance online with time slots which are recommended during the summer as it can get very busy.
Is Stirling Castle worth visiting? I’d say yes, it was big and there were loads of interesting parts to see. I think it’s just as worthwhile as Edinburgh Castle.
2. See the King’s Knot
If you’re visiting Stirling Castle, be sure to check out the nearby King’s Knot which is one of the best places to visit in Stirling.
This interesting grassy patch with a modeled mound below street level was once a royal pleasure ground, where monarchs participated in leisurely activities such as jousting, hunting, and hawking.
Today, the octagonal stepped mound stands 3 m high and offers one of the best views of Stirling Castle.
Visiting King’s Knot is completely free (one of the best free things to do in Stirling) and you can park your car at the side of the road (Dumbarton Road) and walk up to the site.
While the ground may be a little muddy, especially after a rain, the view of the castle towering high up on the hill is well worth it!
3. Go for a walk in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
Visiting Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is one of the best things to do in Stirling and is one of my top suggestions for day trips from Stirling Scotland.
Located just a short drive from the city, this Scottish National Park is full of beautiful mountains, lochs and hiking and walking routes.
There are also cute villages of Callander and Balloch, as well as the chance to cruise on the lochs, go biking on an old viaduct and more.
If you’re an outdoors lover, you’ll love exploring Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and it’s easy to spend several days here, especially if you’re planning to do some of Loch Lomond’s best walking routes like Ben Lomond or Ben Ledi.
Navigating while on the trail: You can find this hike on AllTrails which is my usual go-to for planning my hikes, navigating, checking trail conditions and, if hiking solo, making sure others know I’m safe. The OS Map app is one of the best hiking apps for trails in the UK and is just like having hundreds of OS maps in your pocket!
4. Wander through the old town of Stirling
Walking around Stirling’s Old Town is a delightful experience that offers visitors the chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the city’s rich history.
The Old Town is a charming area that features narrow, winding streets lined with traditional buildings and historical landmarks.
On my first trip to Stirling, I completely missed that the city had an Old Town only exploring Stirling city centre instead. When I returned more recently it was a nice surprise to find this pretty part of the city as I walked down from the castle.
In Stirling Old Town you’ll find the Stirling Castle, the Church of the Holy Rude, and the Old Town Jail which as some of the top attractions in Stirling. You’ll also find many local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
5. Check out the Old Town Jail
For what to see in Sterling that’s a bit different to do in Stirling, check out the Old Town Jail in Stirling which is one of the best things to do near Stirling castle.
Here, you can learn about the history of crime and punishment in the Royal Burgh of Stirling, including the infamous executioner Jock “The Happy Hangman” Rankin and other well-known Scottish criminals.
The tours which feature performance artists in them too get great reviews and give you an immersive and engaging way of learning about the history of Stirling’s Old Town Jail.
Get your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.
6. Visit the National Wallace Monument
Seeing the Wallace Monument in Stirling is an excellent activity for those visiting Callander.
About 30 minutes away by car, the monument stands tall at 220 feet and commemorates the Scottish hero, Sir William Wallace. The monument is perched on top of the Abbey Craig, offering stunning views of the surrounding area and it commemorates William Wallace.
You can climb the monument’s spiral staircase, which has 246 steps, to reach the top and take in the stunning panoramic views. I’d recommend doing this since the top balcony of the monument provides an unobstructed view of Stirling Castle, the Ochil Hills, and the Forth Valley.
Apart from the stunning views, the monument also features an exhibition that showcases Wallace’s life and legacy. You can learn about Wallace’s life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a hero who fought for Scotland’s independence.
7. Take a walking tour of Stirling
To truly make the most of your visit to Stirling, you should look into booking a walking tour of the city.
Taking a walking tour is the best way to learn about the history and goings-on in a new city and with Stirling there’s just so much to learn.
You can also combine an Old Town Tour with a guided tour of Stirling Castle for an unforgettable experience.
Check out these Stirling walking tours:
8. See the church of Holy Rude
Sat on top of a volcanic crag in Stirling’s Old Town, the Church of the Holy Rude is one of the oldest buildings in the city and the second oldest after Stirling Castle.
The church was founded in the 12th century and is hard to miss since it’s sat on the city’s highest hill.
The church played a significant role in Scottish history, hosting the coronation of James VI in 1567, a ceremony performed by revolutionary theologian John Knox.
These days it’s much calmer and you can walk inside the church to view both the building itself and the views from it.
9. Learn about the Battle of Bannockburn
The Battle of Bannockburn Experience is an award-winning thing to do in Stirling that’s on the city’s south side.
When you visit the Battle of Bannockburn Experience you can fully immerse yourself in medieval combat and explore the 1314 battle that plunged Robert the Bruce into the annals of Scottish history.
The exhibit is a 3D-enabled presentation with videos, an interactive map, costumed characters and plenty of interesting facts.
The actual site of the Battle of Bannockburn is next to the visitor centre and you can walk through history with interpretive panels throughout the field.
10. The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum
The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum was founded in 1874 for artist Thomas Stuart Smith and today it’s a Victorian-style museum with free admission where you can discover both the rich history of Stirling, the surrounding area and art from the time.
Inside you’ll find portraits of Bonnie Prince Charlie, William Wallace, and other notable figures. Inside there are loads of super interesting artefacts including the oldest football from 1540! and the oldest curling stone from 1511.
There’s also an exhibition that details the Stirling Story which has 1000s of artefacts from pre-human periods to today.
11. Visit Doune Castle
Just a few miles from Callander, Doune Castle is a must-see for history buffs and fans of the hit TV show “Outlander”. This medieval castle was built in the 14th century and has been featured in a number of popular movies and TV shows.
You can pay to enter Doune Castle where you can explore the Great Hall, kitchens, and courtyard.
I also highly recommend taking a walk around the grounds and river that surround the castle. This was one of my favourite running routes when we were living in Doune and it’s super pretty and peaceful.
12. Visit Cambuskenneth Abbey
The Cambuskenneth Abbey is a fascinating historic site where you can explore the ruins of an old abbey and a graveyard.
It’s not technically in Stirling, but just outside of it in the small village of Cambuskenneth.
The abbey was founded by King David I in 1140 to serve Stirling Castle. The abbey’s surviving bell tower is an amazing example of architecture from the 1200s and it’s pretty unique to see in Scotland.
During your visit, you can wander inside the bell tower and explore the foundation of the abbey church. Though there’s not exactly much left of it, the interpretive markers and signs can help you picture what it used to look like.
It’s free to enter the abbey grounds and they’re open from April 1st through September.
I think combining a trip to the abbey with a trip to the National Wallace Monument, a quick drive away, is a great way to spend half a day or more.
13. Check out the David Stirling Memorial
The David Stirling Memorial is a must-visit for anyone interested in military history and is just a short drive outside of Stirling.
David Stirling was a Scottish officer who saw active service during the Second World War, and his legacy is deeply intertwined with the history of Scotland and its contributions to the Allied effort during the war.
The memorial itself is located on a bit of high ground, providing not only a fascinating glimpse into Stirling’s life and accomplishments but some pretty good views from its peak.
You can combine this with a visit to one of my favourite towns near Stirling, Doune. Here, visit Doune Castle and walk around the river on the castle grounds – one of my top ideas for days out in Stirling.
14. Blair Drummond Safari Park
Blair Drummond Safari Park is one of the top things to see in Stirling, especially if you’re visiting Stirling with kids.
At Blair Drummond Safari Park you’ll get to feel like you’ve flown off on a safari where you can see lions, tigers, giraffes, rhinos and more.
You can also take a guided safari tour to see the animals up close which is a super fun thing to do in Stirling for families.
Apart from the animals, there are also boat trips, adventure playgrounds and a petting zoo where kids and adults can get up close with some less wild animals.
15. Shop for locally made souvenirs at Made in Stirling
If you’re looking to get some souvenirs from your trip to Scotland, be sure to pop into Made in Stirling.
This shop sells cards, sweet treats, ceramics, jewellery, and more that make the perfect moments from your time in Scotland.
They also hold exhibitions and workshops throughout the year so it’s worth checking their website to see if there’s one happening during your trip.
It’s a great space that gives local artists a place to grow their business and definitely worth visiting during your trip.
Where to stay in Stirling
Below are some of my top recommendations on where to stay in Stirling, Scotland.
- Victoria Square & The Orangery: Stay in luxury at Victoria Square & The Orangery in Stirling, offering elegantly styled en suite rooms and just a 4-minute drive from Stirling Castle.
- The Meadowpark Bar, Kitchen & Rooms: Experience warm hospitality and excellent amenities at this hotel with a restaurant, bar, and terrace.
- Springfield Lodge B&B: If you’re looking for a peaceful stay just outside the city, Springfield Lodge Bed and Breakfast is a perfect choice. Enjoy the stunning views of the hills and countryside, and catch a glimpse of the nearby Wallace Monument from the rooms and a great location for exploring.
How to get to Stirling
Stirling is in central Scotland, not too far from the major cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. When it comes to getting to Stirling, I’ve included the options below.
Flights to Stirling Scotland
The closest airport to Stirling is Glasgow International Airport, which is approximately 35 miles away from the city. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Stirling.
Alternatively, Edinburgh Airport is approximately 32 miles away, and you can also take a taxi or a bus to reach Stirling.
Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.
Alternatively, you can rent a car.
I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!
Trains to Stirling
Stirling has its own train station in the city centre with regular connections to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other major cities across Scotland and the UK.
The journey from Glasgow takes around 25 minutes, while the journey from Edinburgh takes around 45 minutes.
You can book trains online in advance by using TheTrainline.com which makes it super easy to plan your journey ahead of time!
Buses to Stirling
Stirling is well-served by local and national bus services, with regular connections to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other destinations throughout Scotland and the UK.
The city’s main bus station is located in the city centre, close to the railway station.
Omio is a great platform for booking European and UK travel on. You can check train and bus prices and schedules and book super easily!
Driving to Stirling
Stirling is easily accessible by car, with good road connections to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other major cities in Scotland and the UK.
The M9 motorway runs through Stirling, providing direct access to Edinburgh to the east and Glasgow to the west. If you’re driving from further afield, you can also take the A9, which connects Stirling to Perth and the north of Scotland.
I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!
FAQs on what to do in Stirling Scotland
Is Stirling Scotland worth visiting?
Stirling is definitely worth visiting as it has a rich history and is home to many historical sites and landmarks, including Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument. The city is also surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with the Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond nearby.
What is Stirling famous for?
Stirling is famous for its strategic location as a key battleground in Scottish history, as well as for being the birthplace of famous historical figures such as William Wallace and King James VI.
What is unique about Stirling?
What is unique about Stirling is its combination of historical significance and natural beauty, with many historical landmarks located within close proximity to the stunning Trossachs National Park. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the year.
How much time do you need in Stirling Scotland?
You can see the top things to do in Stirling in one day including the castle and the Wallace Monument. However, spending one night in the city gives you more time to see the surrounding area and other attractions.
Which is better Stirling or Edinburgh Castle?
I have visited both castles and despite both being castles, they’re actually quite different. Edinburgh Castle is bigger and has more interactive videos and exhibitions but Stirling Castle was more interesting to explore overall with various different rooms and a change to walk on the castle walls! If you’re in to history I recommend visiting both during your trip to Scotland.
Final thoughts on the best things to do in Stirling
With its fascinating history, modern attractions, and picturesque surroundings, there are plenty of fun things to do Stirling has to offer.
From the towering Stirling Castle to the charming village and abbey of Cambuskenneth, on a trip to Stirling, you can explore centuries of Scottish history and culture at every turn.
For those seeking more natural surroundings, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park offers stunning views and so many beautiful walking routes. Another fun idea for Stirling Scotland things to do is to visit The David Stirling Memorial that provides a reminder of the sacrifices made during the Second World War, while the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum offers a fascinating look at the area’s history, art and culture.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, there’s no shortage of Stirling attractions.
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Last Updated on August 25, 2023 by Hannah
Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe, a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada, you’ll find posts on all of this.
Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.
Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.
