Although her Royal Heiress enjoyed her trip, it's not a stroller friendly area. Parents with little ones or wheelchair users may want to consider an alternative option. Otherwise, a must see! There are so many picturesque spots that they could spend weeks there. read more

Stirling Castle - Castles Near Me - Scotland, STG

I got a chance to visit this on March 5th of 2016, one of the 2 castles I was able to visit. We arrived late in the afternoon about an hour and a half before closing on a very cold afternoon. The wind blew hard through the queens courtyard, but It didn't stop me from admiring everything I could. I got to walk through the ancient walls, and hear the whispers of the past, and imagine what life was like back then. It was lovely to see the unicorn project, and interact with the Queen and King as the actors in the restored part of the Castle embraced their parts. This is a beautiful Castle, so much MORE than Edinburgh's, though not a Ruin as I expected. Do get the temporary membership if you're planning on visiting more than one or 2 of the historic places, you will save yourself money. read more

Nice castle and I've been to several. The reason I gave it high stars? Not overcrowded like the one I've been to in other places. Don't expect it to have a bunch of furnished rooms like Blair Castle, Cawdor or Edinburgh Castle. Most of the areas are empty, but that's a good thing for me. It is a bit overpriced, but it's worth a visit if you are taking pictures. The view up there is beautiful, and you can even see the William Wallace Monument from a distance. The staff members are dressed in costume telling the story of Mary Queen of Scots. Lots of photo opportunities since it's not crowded. A nice visit to the pub below the castle is a must! There's a creepy looking statue in there. read more

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A must see on a visit to Scotland. I recommend taking a guided tour (included with the price of admission) of the castle. The tour guide did a superb job explaining: -the history of Stirling Castle -the importance of Stirling Castle in the Wars of Scottish Independence -what Robert the Bruce did in the Wars to become the greatest Scot ever -what life was like in the different eras (ie, jesters were often used as spies in the medieval era) Honestly I didn't know what to expect before I went to Scotland. A visit to Stirling Castle is part of how Scotland became my new favorite place to visit in all the world. read more

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I LOVE castles! I will travel all over the UK to visit one so Stirling castle was on my list to visit. If you're coming to Stirling just to visit the castle, the train isn't a bad mode of transportation. From Edinburgh Waverley station, it is just a 55 min train ride for about £9.50 return for an off peak ticket. The castle is about a 20 min walk from Stirling train station and allows you to pass through city centre. The castle is up in an extinct volcano so it's hard to miss. The view from the castle is AMAZING! You can see the Sir Wallace monument, mountain ranges, the city of Stirling and the lush Scottish landscape. On a clear day, you can definitely see forever! The entrance fee for the castle is about £14 for adults, unfortunately they don't give student discounts. The castle offer a free tour guide or you can just walk around and explore it. My friend and I decided to go for the tour, which was a great choice cause our guide was very knowledgable about the history of the castle. He shared information about the Kings and queens that use to live in the castle as well as the extensive battles that have occurred. He was an amazing story teller, full of passion and animation... Truly a great to hear the history of the castle while walking around. You can visit the King's apartment, queens apartment, Royal chapel, and the great hall. You can also see other rooms and exhibits around the castle as well such as the great kitchen. The main negative isay about this castle is the limited amount of furnishings that were a part of the castle which is understandable. It's not like Hampton court where there's tons of original furnishings and paintings. This castle is fun to visit, and most certainly a must-visit especially if you're in Scotland cause of its important role in history. However, it's a bit limited with the exhibit they offer and don't have much original furnishings and art work that use to exist when kings and queens lived here. read more

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This is a great castle with some great views. The building is really great and some great architecture. The staff were friendly and helpful. The history and displays well told. read more

Stunning, well preserved Scottish castle - a major attraction on many day bus tours. I visited Stirling Castle as part of a 1-day bus tour through the highlands that departed from Edinburgh. We were give 2 hours to explore the castle - which is plenty. From Wikipedia: "Stirling Castle, located in Stirling, is one of the largest and most important castles, both historically and architecturally, in Scotland. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation. It is surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs, giving it a strong defensive position. Most of the principal buildings of the castle date from the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. A few structures of the fourteenth century remain, while the outer defenses fronting the town date from the early eighteenth century. Several Scottish Kings and Queens have been crowned at Stirling, including Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1542." Be aware that the castle is very impressive from the outside of the buildings and walls (see photos), but that there is almost no authentic furniture left on the inside. As a compensation you will be treated to the very interesting museum/exhibition of the Highlanders Regiment. From the castle hill you have absolutely stunning views of the Scottish landscape and surrounding towns - including the William Wallace Monument on an opposite hill. If you have enough time left, walk down from the castle hill into the scenic, historic town of Stirling. Amenities include several toilets, a shop, and a rather nice café. And DON'T FORGET the breathtaking historic cemetery that is adjacent to the castle (see photos). It's just a few minutes walk down from the castle, and will be very much worth your time. read more

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We drove over to Stirling on our tour in Scotland. This is a huge castle and you can certainly spend a few hours on a tour. read more

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There is so much to see and DO here. You can spend a few hours easily. It is so surreal to walk where Mary Queen of Scots once was. Unicorn cafe was a healthy pick for lunch. The 15 pound price is well worth the information and attention to detail you ingest. read more

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Delightful day trip to the city of Striling and the Castle. The Castle was extraordinary but I'm always a bit sad to see how much cleanup they've done or redone to the Castles. Sometimes I feel like all the restoration takes away from the historical essence of the spaces. If you've ever been to the Abbey in Leeds I'm more of a fan of seeing these types of ruins. It's a grand castle and the view is exceptional but I'm not sure I'd ever make the trip back. We also did the tour and it didn't show us the entire grounds-we saw a very small portion in just 40-50m. After the tour we peeked in the tapestry making studio which was pretty cool. I could have done without everyone in costume though. read more

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A classic Scotland castle with history galore. read more

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Wow! We had a wonderful day trip from Glasgow (less than an hour's drive) to the Stirling Castle. We arrived just a few minutes before they opened so we were one of the first ones in so we were able to take some nice photos before the crowds on the tour buses arrived. The guided tour, included with admission, lasted almost an hour and was extremely interesting and informative. The castle grounds includes a garden, the old Kings quarters, a chapel, banquet room, and many other buildings and exhibits. If you an interest in Scotland's history, this place is a must! read more

Visited April 2015: "2 places enriched with history for the price of one: Stirling Castle and Argyle Home" We went through most of the rooms, except the military areas and the tapestry studios. We purchased our tickets online, and it make things go smoother at the ticket counter. Definitely utilize your map, to maximize your time. We went through the castle exhibition first, which provided you with a timeline of the castle and its occupants. Looking over the walled garden of Queen Ann, and seeing the ruins of the Garden party and how this portion of the world has changed over the centuries, was mind-blowing. The galleries are a must along with the chapel. I LOVE ornate ceilings, and this castle had it all for me. You also have to check out the gargoyles. There's also a vast cemetery next door for individuals who enjoy genealogy, or admiring gravestones. The Argylle home is also a must to visit. It doesn't take long to go through either. read more

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A way cool place to go, with lots to see! Lots of corridors and passage ways...prepare to walk!! This castle is more secluded and isolated than Edinburgh Castle. Here is a little secret for those travelling with a family, purchase a 5-day explorer pass for 50 pounds (around $71 US dollars) and this will allow you to get into a plethora places throughout Scotland at no additional cost. In fact, if you purchase the family explorer pass, you actually save money on the regular price admission ticket...its a win-win! read more

I must admit that I did like Stirling castle more than Edinburgh castle. The castle area is very big and has lots of secrets to discover. Lots of buildings and halls witch have a very good discription of what they have been and also actors are playing their role very good! I loved the atmosphere ! read more

Stirling Castle - Stirling castle on a nice day - Castles Near Me - Scotland, STG

Full of history and amazing architecture, Stirling Castle is a must-see if you travel between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Much of it dates from the 16th century or earlier, and its location on a rocky mount makes even approaching it impressive. While the fortified exterior is impressive, much of the interior remains in good shape, including the Great Hall. Medieval-themed shows are sometimes put on; we saw a falconry exhibit the last time we were there. The car park outside the castle wall sometimes hosts large community events. I actually saw Bob Dylan play there once! read more

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We decided to take the 1 hour train ride to Stirling from Edinburgh. Really worth it! it was a perfect one day trip through Scottish countryside and into the small town of Stirling. Unlike Edinburgh castle, many parts of the Stirling castle have been refurbished to their original so one can truly imagine what these castles were like at the height of their glory. btw: there is a multi-castle ticket available that would have saved us, but we didn't learn about in time. read more

I was staying in Glasgow for a week and I made a trip up to Stirling to see the castle and the area. I was surprised how well everything is kept up. There weren't many people there, either, at least when I went, so I was able to view the displays without being interrupted very often. It was interesting to see the full sets of armor and all of the unicorns painted onto the walls. I had no idea that unicorns had such a large role in old Scottish history until I visited the castle. It wasn't as big as Edinburgh Castle, but there's enough in the castle to warrant a trip out to see it. read more

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Magnificient vantage point right in the heart of Scotland. The old streets in Stirling crawl their way up towards the stunning Castle. A brilliant day out for anyone,yes it does take a day to fully explore. Amazing views in all directions aslo. On the day we visited the Palace was shut and is due to be shut for a while whilst they upgrade/repair the inside. read more

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One of my favorite castles, thanks to its stunning location, energetic and entertaining tour-guides, moving Highland Regiment museum and awe-inspiring tapestry studio. Avoid school holidays and try to join one of Brian Gibson's tours! read more

Stirling Castle - Castles Near Me - Scotland, STG

Good points about going in April...not that busy and can explore with ease. Bad points..the weather...it was raining and a lot of the tour is outside. I did enjoy my day here as there is a lot of history but I do think the entrance fee is very over priced. £14 something. I would definitely recommend the free guided tour to get your monies worth. Our tour guide was very well informed and happy to answer additional questions our group had. The army owned the castle for a while until the 1960s so there are artifacts and letters from battles and world wars to look at in the military museum on site. read more

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Wonderful history- Mary Queen of Scots was crowned here and the Stewart dynasty thrived here. Awesome views of the surrounding valley and lovely gardens. It is a steep 20 minute walk from the train- but worth it. I also found the food to be great- very surprising for a museum-like place. A must-see! read more

We were at Stirling Castle on a super-rainy morning & even so, couldn't say this was a 5-star experience The Palace was closed off for remodelling so we could only enter the Chapel, the Great Hall & the Regimental Museum The Chapel & Great Hall were huge open rooms, where more renovations were going on so we mainly saw empty rooms - no furniture or decorations. Bummer! Really wish there was an easier way to find out when tourist sites are under major renovations so we could have planned our visits better.... we didn't go onto individual sites before we went so I guess shame on us But aside from that, the grounds were beautiful, very nice scenery of the surrounding town. I bet it would be something really spectacular when all the renovations are done - supposed to be sometime around summer 2011 read more

Let me give some folks a bit of advice. You come over to Scotland and you want to see a Castle. Alternatively, relatives arrive from somewhere else. And they want to see a Castle. I know where you are heading. Everyone goes there. Edinburgh sits at the top of the Scottish Castle League Table. But Stirling Castle is definitely in the same league and it has a lot of advantages over the Big "E". It is easier to get to. It is easier to get around. It has all of the Castley Things that foreigners expect. Finally, it is cheaper. Unless you live on the Royal Mile. Think about Stirling Castle. read more

We were lucky enough to have our wedding reception at Stirling Castle - the staff at the castle know exactly how to run the whole place so that from the moment of arrival at the castle gates you, your partner and guests feel like royalty. Once the tourists had left at 6, we had the castle to ourselves and staff took our guests round on private tours through the beautiful castle, whilst outside on the garden terraces, we had our photos taken. As you can imagine, every direction is a great photo. Inside, the Queen Mary Chapel was arranged into tables on the lower section and dancefloor on the raised part to the south end of the chapel. They organised the catering so that everything ran like clockwork. It's mesmerising to think that we could share an small part in the castles history. The staff lit the signal fires and we had a pipe band in the main courtyard - the sound of the drums echoing off the ancient stone walls was a moment that none present will forget. Whilst expensive; not much more so than some of the larger hotel venues in the area. read more

WOW!!! I have to admit, I kinda felt like royalty as I walked the cobblestone and dreamed of the parties once held at the castle. The grand hall is huge and having the opportunity to dine a traditional meal here was amazing. It was just as I imaged, with the seating area for the King and Queen at the front -- a really, really, really long table for the court -- and an endless parade of food. Entertainment was of a traditional "battle" of the times and bagpipes leading us through the courtyard. How can you beat such an evening? This is a must visit and highly recommended! read more

You get the Full castle experience, even complete with guides dressed in period clothes. We had a great time. Definitely worth a visit. It had been upgraded considerably since I had seen in when I lived in Scotland. So glad we went back. read more

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Ok. So I may be a bit biased as I was taken here on a date, a first date to be exact. (Now listen up boys, know your audience. My suitor knows I am into castles, history and pretty views, so he took me here. Needless to say, I am seeing him again.) Moving on to the actual castle. There isn't much I can say on the subject other than it is a amazing testament to the patience of historians who have lovingly recreated Stirling Castle to look like it did during the medieval period. It show an interesting peek at Scottish History, especially where the crown is concerned. Add to the grandeur the structure itself are the views from the grounds. Seriously, the landscape surrounding the castle looks as if it was lifted from a Turner painting. Green, lush, and pretty much close to perfect, it is worth the price of admission just for the view. Truly spectacular. read more

So pretty... and free with our Explorer Passport. After leaving Edinburgh in our friend's family van, we had to take in some of the sights on the way to Perth. Normally I fall asleep in cars (except when driving--obviously), so I can't tell you how long it took to get here. All's I know is that I was supposed to leave all my luggage in a van full of windows as I explored a castle. My friend's wedding dress was draped on the seat. I was so sure we were asking for it. Can you tell I'm not very trusting? An ice cream cart near the entrance... That's the first thing I see... but I'm here for scones. With all the clotted cream I can fit on a plate. Again. As I sit with a bride who is trying to fit into a dress, I should try to restrain myself. But I don't. Did I mention I can scoop as much as I thought could reasonably fit on my scone? I get another Americano and wait for the tour to start. Wait for the tour to start. I have never been anywhere where people are just so passionate about their jobs. While my husband left midway to go take photos outside, I wandered around with our friends taking in the history. Beautiful and different structures. This guy (I should have remembered his name) was explaining to us about family crests. He then spotted a vistor's hat and showed how this Spanish Crest was then incorporated into someone else's family crest (I should have listened harder to this too). While going through Mary of Guise's bedroom, we listened to a "chambermaid" speak of the going ons of the castle. She then told us about how Henry the VIII vied for her hand, but instead she married James V... then she said she had to stop gossiping with us from the New Lands and get back to work. Never broke character. Amazing. After taking selfies in the gardens, we took some time in the gift shop. Our friend's mother bought a necklace, I bought some postcards and stamps (how convenient to have stamps... now I need a mailbox). On to the next castle! read more

Stirling Castle is simply amazing! I've lost count of the number of times I've been, but each time I've found something new. Last year, they re-opened the newly refurbished Royal Apartments after they underwent some major restoration. Whilst I'm not too keen on most of the new look (I'm not a fan of re-constructed views) I have to admit that the ceilings are impressive! At the same time, they opened the Stirling Heads gallery where you can see the process that went into recreating these beautiful carvings. It was impressive and very enjoyable. There is something for everyone here (including a dress-up suite for the kiddies) and because it's not Edinburgh, there aren't massive crowds so you can really take your time to enjoy the space. Be sure to take the time to walk along the wall so that you can get the full views of Stirling, which is an impressive little city. If you can swing it, I'd plan at least a couple of hours to do this place justice. A 15-minute walk through will just leave you wanting more! read more

I hate to say this, but I was kind of disappointed with Stirling Castle. A lot of it is really, really gorgeous, but what they've done with a refurbished wing with painfully bright, whimsical colours and images is ghastly. I appreciate the gritty dirtiness of history, and the preservation of buildings as they were, not the amusement park theme they must have been going for. That left a really bad taste in my mouth for this castle, which is really too bad with such a rich history. I kind of felt like I was in a museum geared towards 5 year olds. Not to mention the fact that the building's exterior sticks out like a sore thumb amidst the beautiful dark stone of the original castle. The other parts of the castle that have been re-done to look just as they had were really quite beautiful. The grounds are gorgeous and the view is astounding. I recommend it for a visit, but be advised: wear sunglasses in the fun-house wing. read more

Our family was recently in Edinburgh on holiday and love visiting castles when on vacation in Europe. This one didn't disappoint. While not massive, that can sometimes be a good thing, especially if visiting with young children like we were. You can experience some amazing castle views, get great coffee at the Unicorn cafe, view the inside of the King and Queens chambers, and so much more. I believe it was 14 pounds per adult and the children were free. Plan for a half a day to fully experience this beautiful historic site! read more

Stirling Castle - Enjoying some castle views with friends - Castles Near Me - Scotland, STG

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We all know there is a plethera of castles to see and explore in Scotland, some free (and in ruin) some over the top on price. Stirling castles one of the good ones. Not overly pricey and plenty to explore as a couple or with the family Great views are always a bonus read more

Get the Historic Scotland Explorer pass if you go here and EDI castle! Get the pass, skip the lines. Castle is great. Loved the actors interaction, the videos about tapestry and kitchen. Sculptors were great too. Informative video too. Too bad it rained today. read more

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This was one of the Highlights of our visit to Scotland.Breathtaking views.YOu can see the views that William Wallace had when he fought.We took the guided tours and they helped us to remember the battles in great detail.(I highly reccomend you take those).If you dont want that, they have the Audio tours as well. Lots of walking. Wear good shoes.I didnt find the inside half as interesting as the outside. I do remember the crowds.Even in the lou there was a que.There are guides and staff all over that were able to help us with our sporadic questions. A must see! read more

An absolutely fabulous experience! Better than Edinburgh Castle by far! So, not only is Stirling Castle historically amazing (Robert the Bruce, Wallace, Battle at Stirling Bridge, etc...), but it gives you the freedom to explore a decent amount of nooks and crannies. After all, why visit a castle if you can't explore? (I'm talking to you Edinburgh!) From the graveyards at the sides of the castles to the creepy carving of Satan with breasts and into the small cramped quarters underground, I had fun searching every inch of this place and (I know I'm a nerd) pretending to be back in history looking out from a functioning castle. There is a lot to see and I spent most of the day taking the audio tour and going around to different areas on my own. I soaked up the history like a sponge and I can't wait to get back to my friends so I can squeeze it out all over them. Don't pop in here for a quick hour unless you have a membership. Really, spend some time here, you won't regret it. read more

What a fantastic place a totally restored castle palace . these folk lived in luxury . The place would require a whole army to take its perched up on top of a rock with sheer rock faces hundreds of feet high .The restored rooms are gorgeous and the great hall is the largest in Europe . I was bowled over with the castle and the views to the Highlands and over Bannockburn Battlefield . read more

Stirling Castle - Castles Near Me - Scotland, STG

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Picturesque village drive up to the castle with great views of the valleys below. Stirling Castle turned out to be the highlight of our tour of Scotland, although it was raining quite hard when we arrived, most of the attractions of the place were under cover. We have a 4 year old and he loved the Royal Vaults - with lots of interactive and historical activities for him to see and do. His favourite was the Minstrel Room with its piano and mini-harp. Scattered around the castle were a number of costumed characters, that really made the place feel lived in. Stirling is also famous for it's "heads" commissioned by King James, these are carved wooden discs with the faces of the good and the great in relief. I would heartily recommend a visit if you are in the area (it is about halfway between Edinburgh and Glasgow) It cost around 14GBP per adult and under 7s were free. read more

Suberb place, you learn so much. Go for the whole day and you'll be fortunate if you can mange to get around it all. Something for everyone, including quirky moments of interaction with the staff who stay 'in character'. Happily visit every couple of years and a good place to take friends and family. read more

Great historical place to visit. Must check out the cells beneath. The art museum adjoining is very good for families to enjoy. Great views over Stirling and beyond. Good value for money. Mind make sure you dont get there too late in the day as you need a lot of time to round everything. Great family day out. Must see. read more