Stirling is an area found in the centre of Scotland. Often described by many as the 'Gateway to the Highlands' and 'the brooch which clasps together the Highlands and the Lowlands', Stirling lives up to this artistic metaphor. With beautiful, mountainous landscapes and a city built on history and Scottish traditions, the area is an outstanding place to visit. With many places of natural beauty, including lochs, glens, falls and the River Forth which flows gracefully through the area, the region is a popular tourist spot with much to offer. Read more
Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within the Trossachs, overlooking the Ben Ledi hills, these delightful holiday lodges are perfect for exploring the Trossachs and Loch Lomond and within easy reach of Glasglow and Stirling.
This lovely stone cottage near Loch Lomond is ideal for couples, families, and friends who want to enjoy central Scotland's best sights and attractions. Walking, mountain biking, fishing and golf are all readily accessible. Visit historic sites like Stirling Castle and the field where the Battle of Bannockburn took place, and spend happy days shopping, eating and sightseeing in Glasgow and Edinburgh. The location of Ballat Smithy Cottage is perfect for everyone in any season, no matter what their age or interest. It sleeps four people in two bedrooms and is available for bookings all year round with short breaks possible depending on availability. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
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The history and heritage of Stirling is vast. Legends of heroes are whispered about and the area has many historical sites to visit. In 1297, William Wallace fought and won the Battle of Stirling Bridge and in 1314, Robert the Bruce conquered the English army, for Scottish Independence, at the Battle of Bannockburn. A heritage centre exists at the site, which tells the story of the battle. The National Wallace Monument is also worth a visit for its great structure and its story-telling of the great Scottish hero. The two Scots both lived by the saying, 'He who holds Stirling holds Scotland.' Stirling Castle is an awe-inspiring castle which has seen many past kings and queens of Scotland be crowned there. Located on Castle Hill, it is open for tourists to explore. Rumours say that the Castle is haunted by Mary Queen of Scots and one of her servants!
As well as the vast amount of historical and heritage sites, Stirling is home to stunning landscapes and picturesque views. The King's Knot, a grassy area found in The King's Park, is one of the greenest spaces in the city of Stirling. Legend has it that King Arthur held his court at the spot! The Campsie Hills, or Campsie Fells, are a range of hills outside the city of Stirling. As well as creating beautiful scenery, they are home to many charming villages. Balfron is known as the capital of The Campsies and offers more of a town feel. For that real sense of Scottish tradition and countryside, villages like Fintry are a must. With white painted houses and inspiring gardens, Fintry has twice won an award for Scotland's Best Kept Village. As well as the River Forth, there are many other water wonders around Stirling. Possibly the largest in terms of popularity is Loch Lomond which is an easy car journey from Stirling city. The Falls of Falloch are a great picnic spot with stunning waterfall and woodland surroundings and Gilmour's Linn waterfall is another popular attraction with a secret cave behind it which is great for adventures and exploring, set in the mysterious Scottish countryside.
As the heart of Scotland, Stirling city offers visitors all of the things they expect from a popular British city: great places to shop, bars, restaurants and friendly locals. However, Stirling holds many more secrets. Its history and strong relations to Scottish heroes, kings and queens, make Stirling a hub of interesting stories and legends. Its amazing countryside, with all of its villages and natural wonders are also worth venturing to. From buzzing city to alluring country, Stirling is a perfect destination.
