Stirling Castle
- Address: Castle Wynd, Stirling
- Hours: Open daily 9:30am - 6pm (until 5pm in winter)
- Admission: Adults: £9, Children (5-15yrs): £5.40
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Walking/Hiking,
Monument - Historical
In a country of castles, Stirling Castle may just be the ultimate royal stronghold. In fact, it was once rumored to be the home of King Arthur and his knights. Like Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle dominates the surroundings, looming over it from a plug of volcanic rock. This impressive pile has seen it all, from a sacking by Robert the Bruce to the coronation of the infant Mary Queen of Scots to the premiere of the movie Braveheart in 1993.
The castle has been involved in some famous battles (most notably the Battle of Bannockburn, after which Robert the Bruce took the castle from the English), but it was also a royal residence. The Stewart monarchs roamed the gardens, watching archery, playing bowls and mingling with peacocks and cranes. Mary Queen of Scots is said to have fell in love here. Kings hunted red deer and wild boar in the park.
Today you too can wander in those gardens, as well as taking in a regimental museum, the Chapel Royal with its elaborate frieze, and the splendid medieval Great Hall. You can also see a medieval-style feast being prepared in the Great Kitchens and the Stirling Heads, a marvel of Scottish Renaissance carving.
Latest Reviews
Review by claire w, May 2013
Doing what: Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh
Review by Robert L Pullen R, October 2012
Doing what: Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh
This was a most enjoyable day. Our guide was excellent with lots of information and was entertaining at the same time. Stirling Castle was a bit of a disappointment, but not terrible. The rest of the day was most enjoyable.
Review by Gary K, October 2012
Doing what: Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh
A great bus tour out from Edinburgh to Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond. It was especially nice not to have to worry about driving and to leave that our our excellent guide, Shelby. Enjoyed seeing the scenery and even getting into the Highlands.
Practical Info
The Stirling Castle is in the center of town (you can't miss it!) and Stirling is easily reached from both Edinburgh and Glasgow; if you're not driving, a train is probably your best option.
