Stirling
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About Stirling
Stirling is a city, sea port and ancient borough. For information on the Stirling council area visit our page about Argyll, the Isles, Loch Lomond, Stirling and Trossachs.
The city of Stirling grew due to it's strategic importance as the lowest bridging point on the River Forth. Originally the crossing was a ford later followed by a bridge. The bridge is famous as the location of the "Battle of Stirling Bridge" in 1297 when William Wallace defeated the English forces during the First War of Scottish Independance. It is generally accepted that the present bridge at Stirling is not at the same location as the original of the battle.
Stirling is dominated by it's famous castle perched on a volcanic outcrop. The castle was a favourite with the Stuart kings and queens with Mary Queen of Scots being crowned there in 1543. The castle is well equiped for the visitor and, if you visit, buy the full colour guide as it is well worth the expense and will add to the enjoyment of the tour (allow over an hour for your visit).
The city has many fine examples of Renaissance buildings which include Argyll's Lodgings a little down the road from the castle and the palace of the Earl of Mar (the Earl of Mar was the hereditary governor of Stirling castle). Work commenced on the palace in 1570 using the ruins of Cambuskenneth Abbey but, unfortunately, the work was never completed.
To the north-east of Stirling is the National Wallace Monument which houses a Hall of Scottish heroes and an introduction to the life of William Wallace. The 220ft (67m) tower was built in 1860 and stands on an outcrop overlooking Stirling and across to the castle. Almost opposite just outside the castle is a statue of Robert Bruce from which the Wallace Monument can be seen in the distance.
Things To See And Do Around Stirling
Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is a "must see" tourist attraction of the highest quality.
Stirling Links:
Stirling Hotels
Virtual Scotland's Stirling hotel accommodation guide.
Stirling Hotels
Stirling hotel accommodation listing.