Stirling Castle

Whilst on a half term visit to Scotland, my husband and I spent a morning at Stirling Castle. As you approach Stirling itself, the castle sitting perched on a hill is very impressive, and it is immediately easy to see why is was of such importance, particularly strategically over the course of many centuries. Unfortunately on the morning we visited, it was blowing a gale, with the rain to follow later, so we didn't hang around. We parked the car in the designated car park, paying £2 for the privilege ( a 4 hour ticket), and walked in through the main entrance. In the small entrance courtyard area are a gift shop, ticket office, toilets as well as an ...  Read the complete review

Stirling's historic importance is due to its position on a very desirable river crossing on the Forth and effectively guarding the only access to the Highlands from the south. It wasn't possible to go round as the surrounding terrain (Ochil Hills in the east and the Trossachs in the west) was pretty inhospitable. Effectively, the crossing at Stirling was a gateway between the North and the South, between the Lowlands and the Highlands, and ultimately and at least for a period in history, between England and Scotland. The town of Stirling has grown around the castle and is connected with some of the most important events of Scottish history, notably the battle ...  Read the complete review

I've lived near Stirling Castle for a few years now and it's only recently that I visited it.*shocking!* I guess people never think to go to tourist places they live close to. The castle has an interesting history, tied into most of the kings and queens since it was built in the 15th century. This history is enthusiastically declared to you by hyperactive tour guides-they literally bring history to life in their re-enactment of grand meetings and fights that occurred in the castle. Other staff are equally friendly and knowledgeable, and welcome questions from visitors. A modern tapestry studio has been built in the castles nether bailey, where old ...  Read the complete review

Stirling Castle is situated on a volcanic outcrop providing the most amazing viewpoint (very good for watching your enemies approach!). It overlooks the entire Forth valley - an excellent position to see your enemies approaching! The castle was mainly built in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was a permanent Royal residence for the Kings and Queens of Scotland. It consists of the Palace, the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal and the Regimental museum. There has recently been a flurry of restoration work including the rebuilding of the Great Hall has been rebuilt. This has caused some consternation, as it's a bit bright to say the least!! However, the ...  Read the complete review