The Stirling, Scotland is a huge castle sited atop a volcanic hill, and is thus visible from a distance. Delving into the history of the Stirling Castle, we come to know that it saw fiery battles, and the evidence is the bullet marks upon its imposing walls. One of the worth mentioning annexation was done by Edward Bruce, brother of Robert the Bruce, during the spring of 1314. He beleaguered the castle that was occupied by the English forces.
There are several interesting highlights at the castle:
- The Royal Palace is an expose of the recherché life of the royals in the 1500s. This was built for King James V and his second French wife, Mary of Guise. The decoration of the palace was done in the Renaissance style, marked by bright colors, lavish fabrics, and flowery patterns.
- The Chapel Royal was commissioned by King James VI. It was built in a hurry as his pregnant wife, Queen Ann, wanted to baptize the to-be-born son. However, Prince Henry died young and thus King James VI was succeeded by his younger son, Charles I.
- The Queen Anne Garden was built around the 1400s. This terraced garden is well maintained and is sited on the sunny side of the castle.
- The Great Hall, built around 1503, served as the venue for the royal feasts, pageants, and dances.
- The Great Kitchens comprise basement rooms where food was prepared, beer was brewed and bread was baked.
Besides the attractions mentioned above, the Stirling Castle also has Palace Vaults, the Wall Walk, the Castle Exhibition, Regimental Museum, Argyll’s lodging, and the Stirling Tapestries.
Tip: Free guided tours are available daily.
Stirling Castle Map
Facts about Stirling Castle
- The first mention of the castle was made around 1110.
- Alexander I left for the heavenly abode in the castle in 1124.
- The castle remained the target of annexation during the Wars of Independence with England (1296–1356).
Where is Stirling Castle ?
The Stirling Castle is about 33.1 miles away from the Edinburgh Airport. It is located near the Stirling Railway Station. You can also travel by bus, or car to reach the castle.
Address: Castle Esplanade, Stirling, FK8 1EJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
Best time to visit Stirling Castle
The tourists usually prefer to visit Scotland during the summers because of its idyllic weather. The winter season brings with it chilly weather and is thus unsuitable for touring. An early morning visit to the castle would be the best deal, as there won’t be many people around.
During the summer season (from April 1 to September 30), the Stirling Castle opens on all days from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., while in winters (October 1 to March 31), the castle closes at 5:00 p.m.
Stirling Castle Tickets
The entry ticket for an adult (aged 16-59) costs £14.00, while for a child of age between 5 and 15 years, the ticket is priced at £7.50. Admission of children under 5 years of age is free.
More about Stirling Castle
What are the coordinates of the Stirling Castle?
56.1239° N, 3.9489° W
Which are the famous attractions in the Stirling City?
Wallace Monument, Stirling Smith Museum and Art Gallery, Church of the Holy Rude, Falls of Falloch, and Argyll’s Lodging.
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