Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most historically important sites, and was once a favoured residence of the Stewart Kings and Queens. Knights, nobles and foreign ambassadors once flocked to Stirling Castle to revel in its grandeur with its superb sculptures and beautiful gardens. It was a favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens who held grand celebrations from christenings to coronations. Today you can meet the costumed characters in the roles of bodyguards, court officials, maids of honour and servants who will welcome you into 16th century life. Families can have fun in the palace vaults where children can try out activities such as dressing in period costume and playing medieval instruments. Don’t miss a guided tour with knowledgeable staff who will bring the castle’s infamous characters and history to life in great detail. Other highlights include the Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Regimental Museum, Great Kitchens, Tapestry Studio and the nearby Argyll’s Lodging.

Heading out of Stirling to The National Wallace Monument you will pass Stirling Old Bridge. Although the original timber bridge from the famous 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge no longer exists, Stirling Old Bridge stands just downstream. Steeped in history, Old Stirling Bridge was built in the late 1400s or early 1500s by Murdoch, Duke of Albany. One of its arches was blown up by General Blackney in 1745 in an attempt to prevent Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Highlanders from crossing the River Forth.

A national landmark, where visitors discover the life and legacy of the patriot and martyr Sir William Wallace. See Wallace’s legendary battle-sword – the centerpiece of the magnificent Hall of Heroes, and enjoy panoramic views from the Crown. One of the most distinctive landmarks on the Stirling skyline – The National Wallace Monument commemorates the Scottish patriot and martyr who triumphed over King Edward’s army at The Battle of Stirling Bridge. As you climb the 246 steps towards the crown of the famous tower, each level tells the story of Scotland’s National Hero, and shows how his part in the history of Scotland has been recognised through the generations.

Lunch Stop | Westeron Arms The Westerton Arms is a family run pub and restaurant in the heart of Bridge of Allan which lies in the shadow of The Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle and Stirling Bridge. Offering everything you would expect from a traditional Scottish pub, friendly faces and service along with wood burning stoves for the cold days and outside areas for the sunny ones. The restaurant is renowned locally for good food, using local suppliers and produce where possible and only scotch beef, lamb and pork with fresh fish and vegetables delivered daily. Additionally, their bar boasts a great selection of drinks including Cask Ales, Scottish Beers, Wines, Spirits and Malts.

Located on the banks of the River Teith and started life back in 1785 as a cotton mill until 1966 where it transformed into today’s distillery, the only distillery in Scotland to be self-sufficient in electricity with its power coming from the River Teith. Tours are run hourly, there are many to choose from. Please use the link below to browse, and book your tour. Advanced Booking is required.

Alternative to Stirling Distillery Prepare for battle at The Battle of Bannockburn experience, putting you at the heart of the action with cutting-edge 3D technology. Come and experience medieval combat like never before and discover more about this crucial event in Scottish history. Take command of your own virtual battlefield to try and re-create the battle, and then witness Bruce’s decisive victory, against all odds. Interact with medieval warriors, pages, archers and knights on either side of the conflict as they reveal how they became involved in the battle. Outside, follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce in our memorial park and see the spot where he raised his royal standard. Admire the battleground and restored commemorative monuments, including the iconic statue of Robert the Bruce, cast in shimmering bronze.

The worlds largest equine sculptures. Located on the Forth & Clyde Canal, standing at 100ft tall, the magical Kelpies are a man-made wonder and a feat of engineering. The works of art, created by artist Andy Scott, have become iconic on the landscape after being modelled on icons of times gone by Clydesdale horses Duke & Baron. The Kelpies represent the lineage of the heavy horse of Scottish industry, pulling the wagons, ploughs, barges and coalships that shaped the geographical layout of Falkirk.