A wee city with a big history, Stirling punches well above its weight for historic attractions and spectacular scenery, not to mention shopping, places to eat and events.
Fit for royalty
Get your bearings by looking out from the hill-top esplanade at Stirling Castle and take in views of the city and surrounding areas, just as kings and queens of Scotland have done before you. Spot the winding River Forth and the prominent National Wallace Monument on the edge of the rolling Ochil Hills before looking north east for the mountain peaks of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
Get a taste for it
Enjoy delicious food and drink on your break to Stirling in friendly pubs, cosy cafés and buzzing restaurants. At the local farmers' markets you can speak to local producers and pick up some tasty treats.
Pop to the shops
If shopping is an integral part of your holiday, then you're in luck. Browse independent boutiques in the historic surroundings of the Old Town and the Victorian Stirling Arcade. Head to The Thistles shopping centre for top brands and high street retailers. Unusually, the centre was built around a 16th century jail cell, known as the Thieves Pot. Take a look inside and hear the tales of times gone by for free!