Things to Do in Stirling

A local museum covering Stirling's history from prehistoric times to the present. Highlights include a silver model of the Old Bridge and a collection of Jacobite relics.

🕐 Tue–Sat 10:30-17:00, Sun 14:00-17:00; closed Mon

💡 Check their events calendar for free lunchtime talks – they happen most Thursdays.

A large Edwardian park with a bowling green, children's play area, tennis courts, and wide grassy spaces for picnics or footy. Views of the castle from the upper part.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 The rose garden at the southern end is at its best in June and July – a quiet spot to sit and read.

A medieval parish church dating from the 15th century, where James VI was crowned. Features a fine hammerbeam roof and stained glass.

🕐 Mon–Sat 10:00-16:00; Sun 13:00-16:00 (hours vary in winter – check website)

💡 Donations suggested (£2). Look for the tiny oak carvings of animals on the wooden pew ends – locals call them the 'Holy Rude menagerie'.

One of Scotland's grandest castles, perched on a volcanic rock. Home to Renaissance royal apartments and the Unicorn tapestries.

🕐 Daily 9:30-17:00 (last entry 16:15)

💡 Arrive right at 9:30am opening to beat the tour bus crowds. Skip the audio guide and read the wall panels instead.

A 67-metre tower on Abbey Craig commemorating William Wallace. Climb 246 steps for panoramic views of Stirling and the Forth Valley.

🕐 Daily 10:00-16:00 (hours extend in summer)

💡 Buy tickets online in advance to skip the queue – and bring good walking shoes for the steep hill up from the car park.