10 THINGS TO DO IN STIRLING, SCOTLAND
Updated: Mar 24, 2019
When I spent a month in Scotland I didn’t go to one of the giant traditional universities like St Andrew’s or University of Glasgow. Instead, I chose a school that has only been around for 50 years... University of Stirling! University of Stirling was one of the first schools after the resurgence of education in Scotland where they wanted to make higher education more accessible to everyone.
Spending a month in Stirling gave me enough time to learn the ins and outs of the city and the surrounding area. Located almost equidistant from Glasgow and Edinburgh, Stirling is a unique city filled with interesting people and places.
Here is my list of 10 things to do when visiting.
1) Dumyat Hill
Of all the things on this list, hiking Dumyat Hill will forever be my favorite. I hiked it twice during my stay and I wish I had hiked it more. For a hiking novice such as myself it is the perfect hike to get me tired enough that the cold wind at the top becomes incredibly refreshing. I only know how to reach the summit through the entrance behind Beech Court, my dorm at University of Stirling. There are other public entrances I am just not sure of their specifics. Here is a link to a website for one of the possible routes you can take.
2) Airthrey Loch and Airthrey Castle
While other universities in Scotland can boast their stunning, centuries-old academic buildings, the University of Stirling makes up for it with its beautiful nature and very own castle. Both man-made, the castle has shifted through many owners in its centuries of existance including a maternity hospital during WWII until it and the rest of the estate were sold to build the university.
The loch wasn't built until after the school opened. Located in the middle of campus, Airthrey Loch boasts rich woodlands and an abundance of animals including ducks, swans, and various birds. Whether you are looking for a scenic run or just a stroll to pass some time, you can't go wrong with a trip around the loch and ending at the castle.
3) Wallace Monument
Another item on the list that can be seen from Stirling University's campus is Wallace Monument. Immortalized by the movie Braveheart Sir William Wallace was a knight who fought during the Wars of Scottish Independence against King Edward I. While the Scots ultimately lost the war and was captured, his biggest triumph was The Battle of Stirling Bridge where they were vastly outnumbered.
**Fun fact: Stirling was kind of the gateway to the north which was why the Scots defeating the English here was so important.
The monument is free to walk up to but does cost to explore the monument, its various exhibits and climb the tower (£10.50 for adults, £8.50 for students.) The park opens at 9:30 during peak season and 10:00 during off season. I recommend getting there first thing in the morning. The park is peaceful and is very enjoyable during the first 30 minutes before the tour busses show up. If you don't want to spend the money, walking up to it and getting the slightly lower, but still breathtaking, view of Stirling.
4) Kilted Kangaroo
Switching gears for a minute, The Kilted Kangaroo Restaurant and Bar is well hidden and with great food. We celebrated America's favorite holiday here: 4th of July. I'm sure the few people who were walking about on a random Monday night in Scotland probably thought we were crazy but it was so much fun. The workers were so accomidating and the food was great. While we were making quite a lot of noise, the place normally is pretty tame and a good place to eat and enjoy oneself.
5, 6) Fubar and Dusk
The gang at Fubar
One of two night clubs in Stirling, Fubar was our group's favorite but it really depends on your preference. Dusk is much more upscale and the atmosphere requires that you dress nicer. Fubar is a little smaller, cheaper, and just a good place to have fun (most of the time.) Once in the summer it was kind of dead but if you're visiting during the academic year, that shouldn't be a problem with all of the university students back in town. Fubar is also right next to a great little Indian takeaway place called Tastebudz.
If you're a female looking to go out on a weeknight, wander the main street between the two clubs to find the guys outside giving out free entrance waivers on particular nights. Dusk is free for women before midnight on Fridays too.
7) Doune Castle
This place isn't directly in Stirling or its neighboring suburb Bridge of Allan but its only a quick drive away and if you're an Outlander fan it is a MUST SEE! This castle has been the location of numerous movies and television shows including Monty Python and the Holy Grail and the first episode of Game of Thrones along with Outlander. It does cost a little to get in, but the grounds and the nearby river are free to wander and enjoy. Whether you're visiting in the summer or winter, this castle is a beautiful spot everyone will enjoy.
8) Old Town Cemetery
After Dumyat Hill, my favorite part of Stirling is the Church of Hollyrood's Cemetery. Known as the Old Town Cemetery it has such an eery, historic, and beautiful air to it. Wether you're perusing the centuries old graves and statues, or stopping at the overlook to the valley below. One wouldn't expect a pyramid in a Scottish cemetery, and yet, the "Star Pyramid" stands tall as a monument those who died in for religious and civil liberties. I visited here the first time late into the evening which added to the mystique of the place. The Old Town Cemetery is a rare burial ground one wouldn't feel too uncomfortable spending long amounts of time in or even relaxing on a park bench.
9) Stirling Ghost Walk
Due to timing, I was unable to partake in one of these but I heard great things from my friends who did! This is a great way to learn some of the darker history of the town while also seeing some of the other sites on this list. While meant to be scary, these walks are fun for the whole family.
10) Stirling Castle
I can't write an article about Stirling without mentioning Stirling Castle. Love it or hate it, this Castle is impossible to miss. It's located strategically at the top of the city overlooking the rest of the city with a fantastic view of the Wallace Monument in the distance. Many notable figures spent time here including Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. The castle is larger than it looks and you definitely get you're money's worth out of your visit. My favorite part was the Regimental museum within the grounds but there are so many different galleries, exhibits, and halls that there is truly something for everyone.
I hope this give you inspiration to visit one of Scotland's cities that I don't think gets enough love or attention.
Leave a comment if you've visited Stirling and agree with my list or have other recommendations!
Happy Exploring!
