City guide: Stirling

Published on Friday 15 May 2009 11:33

Ever since Mel Gibson strode across the screen as William Wallace in Braveheart, Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument have been attracting an increasing number of tourists from all over the world. But aside from epic battle scenes and stunning views, the city is also a vibrant centre for culture and activity, and is home to one of Scotland's newest bridges.

The 100m-span link from the city centre to Forthside, a multi-million-pound waterfront development, was opened by no fewer than six William Wallaces this month.

Before you go

Visit Lonely Planet (www.lonelyplanet.com), then brush up on your history with Elspeth King's Old Stirling (13.95, Stenlake Publishing). And watch Braveheart to get in the patriotic mood.

Planes, trains and automobiles

Stirling is easy to reach from almost anywhere in Scotland, with frequent trains and buses. Log on to www.thetrainline.com and www.megabus.com for more information.

Getting around

The best way to see the city is on foot, as many of the hidden gems are too easy to miss in a car. The old town, near the castle, is especially hilly but there are regular buses for those who find the trek hard-going.

Tourist trail

The two main obvious attractions are Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument. The first would be worth a visit for the breathtaking views alone – but it delivers much more, with rich history, a magnificent statue of Robert the Bruce and plenty else besides to please the whole family. The Wallace Monument, just outside Stirling, is one of the best vantage points from which to view the city. The old town is fascinating to wander around, with amazing architecture and historical sites such as the Old Jail to visit.

If castles and monuments aren't your thing, the city offers much in the way of culture. The Tolbooth is the main venue for live music and the arts, with a wide variety of performances, gigs and classes taking place on a regular basis, while the Albert Hall caters for indoor concerts, conferences, opera, craft fairs, antiques fairs, ballet and drama.

To entertain children, head to Blair Drummond Safari Park or Bannockburn's interactive visitor centre. See www.stirling.co.uk for further information on all of the local attractions.

Nightlife

When the sun goes down Stirling comes alive with a collection of great pubs and bars. Those in search of a good selection of ales, beers and traditional surroundings should head to the ever-popular Nicky Tam's, in Baker Street, while Cape, in Corn Exchange Road, offers new-music nights in a modern venue. There are some great pubs in the local villages, including the Lion & Union, in nearby Thornhill, and the Inn at Kippen.

Night owls can dance the night away in the student haven of the Beat, in Bridge of Allan, nightclub Dusk (just opposite Nicky Tam's) or the city's main club, the Fubar.

Where to stay

For luxury in the heart of the city, there's the Stirling Highland Hotel (www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk). With a reputation for excellent service, great food and facilities including a pool and spa, rooms cost from around 100 per night. If you prefer to stay in a more rural venue, the Waverley Hotel (www.thewaverley.co.uk), in Callander, offers quality rooms from around 60 per night.

When to go

Spectacular views make spring and summer the time to visit, and this is also when most tourist attractions are open.

Where to eat

Set in the old town, right next to the castle, is the traditional Portcullis Hotel. It serves great food, which can be enjoyed in winter by the open fire or al fresco in summer, in the beautiful beer garden. If you're looking for something more sophisticated, try Osta, where diners can eat in the modern bar, the restaurant or in one of the private rooms (www.osta.uk.com).

Outwith the city, in the picturesque town of Callander, the Brigend House Hotel (www.thebridgendhouse.co.uk) offers some of the finest food in the area and has one of the best beer gardens in Scotland.

What to buy

You will find all the usual tourist shops but there are some great places to pick up unique gifts and souvenirs. Thistle and Rose, on King Street, has a great selection of beauty products, bags and gifts, while the nearby Crawford Arcade has unusual shops selling everything from second-hand books to art and craft materials.