One of the most iconic image combinations in Scotland the coo and the castle!  Quite frankly no example can be better than the majestic Stirling castle and its now famous local residents.  

Coo and a Castle

Picture Credit University of Strathclyde

A romantic meander in and around Stirling

Stirling has a huge array to offer the local and visitor alike, from beautiful walks and scenery to days out and attractions not to mention some incredible eateries and accommodations. The only potential issue is whether you will fall more in love with each other or our this beautiful part of the world.  Stirling is indeed a gateway city to the wider Trossachs area but has soo much to offer in its own right and is bound to put romance in the air. So here is just a few itinerary thoughts for your Stirling visit be it a day a weekend or a full week with your significant other.  We have tried to give you some inspiration for something a little more unusual, some of the places and things you might not have first thought of when making plans for your next romantic getaway.  Beyond what you will read here there is just no way not to get loved up in this part of the world. Let’s face it couples brownie points are in high demand these days and, it seems, harder to earn but follow some of our guide and pointers and you will be on a one stop trip to loved up heaven. I am confident enough to say it will no doubt become your next regular destination spot.

  1. Stirling Castle – Well it is a must isn’t it! Even if you don’t make time to visit the castle itself you can’t be anywhere near Stirling without being blown away by its imposing location sitting atop the city centre. whether as a landscape backdrop or within the castle walls it is a fantastic location for couples photography. We urge you to go, visit and live like the noble Stewart Kings and Queens, You can even go one better and organise your wedding day here with exclusive use of the Castle!. COVID ready and safe to visit.
  2. Wallace Monument – We said it just days ago on Facebook, this is a bucket list must see! It will take an element of mobility to get the most out of this but is well worth it for the glimpse into the life and history of our most iconic forefather Mel Gibson William Wallace. If not the energising walk the simply incredible views will have you ready for a warming embrace. COVID Ready.
  3. Dining and drinking is a huge part of any romantic escape. Naturally sometimes that will call for starched linen and fine Champagne.  Rural Scotland though has a way of reminding us that a great traditional pint and rustic lunch in a quaint country Inn can compete with any tasting menu!  If a few lunch time pints takes it out of you a hospitable quiet country stay, with 4 poster bed, just minutes from Stirling centre the Red Lion Inn, Doune is a great place to head for.  We love the 200 year old history, mingled with contemporary interiors that warm and welcome you.
  4. You need to partake in a little dram whilst you’re in Stirling of course don’t you!? Well a stone’s throw from the Red Lion is one of Scotland’s finest drams in the form of Deanston Distillery. Just 20 minutes from Stirling City Centre. Scotch Single Malt is an art form and you will learn much of the secrets of distilling and ageing of the amber nectar on some of their fantastic value tours and tastings.  There is even the chance for a coffee and bite to eat if the dram goes to your head! COVID safe.
  5. Perhaps though it is Scotland’s second national drink that entices you? If that is so, head for the Stirling Gin Distillery. Opened in 2019 (although the brand is well established) in the foothills of Stirling Castle.  You will be captivated by the array of gin styles crafted from their unique use of individual and local botanicals.
  6. Because the lady loves to shop! Scotland offers some incredible antiques shopping and Trossachs is a great home for this and offers a shopping style and experience that will work great for each partner as there is something to offer everyone. An area surrounded by the history of the countries great estates, battles and the integration with wider British History you can just imagine some of the hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. The Scottish Antique and Arts Centre is an incredible venue that brings together dozens of independent collections and styles for you to browse under one roof.  This is soo much more than just a collection of old coins! Vintage engagement ring anyone?  If you happened to enjoy a traditional Scottish afternoon tea in the process then all the better right?
  7. If shopping and local produce is your thing then look no further than your local farmers markets. In spite of COVID most of your local markets are still trading safely and bringing an incredible variety of locally produced foods and crafts to you. Obviously you need to time it well as most are monthly occurrences. Stirling City Centre Farmers market is every second Saturday of the month with a really convenient location on the city’s Port Street, whilst the Sterling Mills Market Street is located just outside the city but at a large “outlet Mall” style shopping village on the 4th Saturday and Sunday each month. We love both as they are on all day from 10am till 4pm so great for early risers and late sleepers alike almost as much as we love a farmer’s market dinner challenge! A great way to immerse yourself in the local crafts and artisan foods of the area and maybe even pick up some gift shopping for loved ones back home.
  8. When you think of Scotland and the outdoors chances are its Munro bagging, which we love, but it takes a pretty special couple to enjoy this on a romantic getaway. Well here is one of thousands of more intimate walking routes.  Bracklinn Falls on the outskirts of Callander.  At just a mile from the car Park this is both a delightful walk to the forested gorge and a perfectly doable one by a loved up couple intent on getting the perfect selfie.  The weather has been exceptionally “Scottish” of late so the falls are in much fuller flow that this sunny summers image. I am sure though that you can just imagine this as the backdrop to a beautiful couples picture or site to take a knee and ask a question?

There is just soo much more to offer in this wonderful area we could literally go on forever.  For now though that is our first insight to a varied time in and around Stirling for budding lovebirds whether you love the great outdoors or sipping a dram together in seclusion.  Be sure to revisit us here for more insights into the Trossachs and Loch Lomond areas, what is happening in the areas and more itineraries for things to do in the Stirling Region.

In the mean time please do reach out to us for more detailed information, help planning your visit and support in the area.