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Stirling Castle
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Stirling
A small city with a big history, Stirling is known for historic attractions and spectacular scenery, not to mention shopping, places to eat and exciting events. Plus it's an ideal base for exploring the surrounding towns, villages and stunning countryside. The city is celebrating it's 900th anniversary in 2024!
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Things to do in Stirling
There is plenty to be getting up to on your visit to Stirling. Find out about some of the most defining moments in Scotland's history before setting out to enjoy the beautiful nearby countryside.
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11 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Stirling
Find out about 11 hidden gems in Stirling including places to eat, attractions to visit and fun things to do for families
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Family Fun in Stirling
Find exciting things to see and do for the family to enjoy from animal farm parks to interactive museums.
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Shopping in Stirling
Indulge in a spot of retail therapy with high street brands as well as local shops.
Accessible Stirling
Find out more information on accessible attractions, accommodation and more in the wider Forth Valley area.
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8 Incredible Things to See & Do in Stirling
Find top things to see & do in Stirling for a great day out.
Inspiration for Stirling city breaks
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The Stirling Highland Hotel
Places to stay
From luxury hotels and cosy B&Bs, to budget friendly hostels and rural retreats, there are plenty of accommodation options for your holiday in Stirling.
The Tolbooth
Tours, Routes & Trails
Sometimes the best way to explore Scotland's towns and cities is on two feet or two wheels. There are even itineraries and guided tours to follow along if you're not sure where to start.
Stirling Castle graveyard
Unique Experiences
Get a private tour of Stirling, take a scenic cruise along one of the nearby lochs or go whisky-making at a distillery.
Map of Stirling
Explore Stirling
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How to Travel To and Around Stirling
Getting to Stirling
Bus and coach
There is an hourly non-stop coach service from:
- Glasgow (40 mins)
- Edinburgh (1 hour)
There is a regular bus service from:
- St Andrews (1 hour 30 mins)
- Perth (45 mins)
Find out more about schedules and timetables at Traveline Scotland
Train
Stirling's railway station is located just a couple of minutes from the city centre.
Stirling is about 35 minutes from Glasgow by train (Queen Street Station) with three direct services an hour.
It takes 50 minutes from Edinburgh (Haymarket and Waverley stations) with two direct services an hour.
You can also find direct services from:
- London (6 hours)
- Aberdeen (2 hours)
- Dundee (1 hour)
- Inverness (3 hours)
Driving
Stirling is a very central and accessible city, with many major roads connecting the city with nearby towns, villages and other major cities across Scotland.
There are various vehicle hire companies across Scotland where you can hire a car, van or motorhome to continue your travels around Scotland.
Flying
If you're flying to Scotland, the closest airports to Stirling are Edinburgh, Glasgow and Glasgow Prestwick. These airports offer public transport connections, car hire or taxi services for travelling into Stirling.
Getting around Stirling
Cycling
Located at the railway station, the Stirling Cycle Hub helps you explore on two wheels. You can also register to use nextbikes, with hubs across the city.
Walking
The city centre is compact and easy to navigate on foot, and the whole area is well connected by bus, rail and taxi services, as well as miles of cycle paths.
Bus and coach
Stirling has a hop-on/hop-off bus, connecting all of the must-see attractions.
What's on in Stirling
Stirling city centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Events
Find out what's happening in Stirling, from big hitting live music to events in the historic castle.
Places to Eat in Stirling
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The Gallery Restaurant
Food & Drink
Tuck into delicious dishes and a range of local produce at cafes, bar and restaurants across Stirling.
Exploring around Stirling
Walking & Cycling around Stirling
Whether you fancy a short amble, ride with the kids or a more challenging long-distance trek or cycle, you won’t be disappointed.
Explore the outdoors around Stirling
Be delighted by scenic towns and villages, meandering rivers and rolling hills.
Nearby Regions
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Schiehallion seen from Kinloch Rannoch, Perthshire
Loch Lomond, Trossachs, Stirling & Fort Valley are surrounded by other scenic and interesting regions. Head to Perthshire and discover the ''Big Tree Country'', explore the west coast and islands of Argyll & The Isles, or head north to visit the majestic Highlands. Edinburgh and Glasgow are easily accessible too.
A tip from your local expert
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Callendar House
© Visit West Lothian / Vass Media
Callendar House is a real hidden gem in the heart of Falkirk. Not only has this historic building hosted famous names like Mary Queen of Scots, but you can also find part of the Antonine Wall in the grounds!
Angela
Assistant iCentre Manager, Stirling
Find out moreOther things you might like
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