The history of Stirling is rich with legends and events from the figures of William Wallace who fought and won the battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297 against Edward I’s occupying English army, to the Battle of Bannockburn where Robert the Bruce’s defeat of Edward II’s invading English army in June 1314 and secured Scottish independence until the Union of The Crowns in 1603.
In 1603 James VI of Scotland, the son of Mary Queen of Scots who was crowned in Stirling Castle in 1542, became James I of England and ruled the kingdoms of Scotland, Ireland and England for 22 years, the period known as The Jacobean Era.
Modern day Stirling is rich with visitors attractions for everyone, from historic sights to visit such as the Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle which is a popular wedding venue and the Old Town Jail along the cobbled streets up to The Castle. There is also great shopping in the Thistle and Marches Centre and leisure venues such as the new multi-plex Vue Cinema.
Stirling boasts one of Scotland’s premier Universities, which is widely acknowledged to have one of the most beautiful campuses and facilities for both the students and local population; facilities such as the MacRobert Arts Centre.
Stirling has a main line railway and bus station, providing easy access to Edinburgh and Glasgow and onward services to the highlands of Scotland. Stirling’s central location makes it an ideal location to explore the rest of the Scotland, including of course, the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
A stay in Stirling would not be complete without a visit to the historic Golden Lion Hotel. Built in 1786 and frequented by Rabbie Burns and various royalty this must be one of Stirling’s hidden treasures. The beautiful marble staircase would be at home in any stately manor. The Golden Lion is open all year for accommodation, lunch or dinner.
Stirling has a lively social atmosphere with regular cultural events around the city and on the Castle Esplanade taking place throughout the year. The Albert Hall in the centre of the City is a great venue for theatre and music.
Visitors to Stirling will be spoilt for choices with some fine and diverse places to eat and drink around the cobbled streets of the Old Town with a selection of menus from around the globe.
Stirling has the following facilities
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