Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most significant historical and architectural landmarks. It offers visitors stunning views, well-preserved structures, and a deep dive into Scottish history.
Website Ratings:
Google: 4.6/5
TripAdvisor: 4.5/5
10 Must-Do Activities:
1. Explore the Great Hall
Why it’s a must: The **Great Hall**, completed in 1503 by **James IV**, is the largest medieval banqueting hall in Scotland. Its vibrant **golden exterior** (known as the King’s Gold) and the **hammerbeam roof** inside make it a breathtaking sight.
Tip: Make sure to visit the hall’s **great fireplace**, where grand feasts were once held. The hall is often used today for events, including reenactments and performances, so you might catch something special during your visit.
2. Visit the Royal Palace
Why it’s a must: The **Royal Palace** within Stirling Castle was home to the **Stewart kings and queens**, including **Mary, Queen of Scots**. It has been beautifully restored to reflect the opulence of the **16th century**, featuring lavish rooms and exquisite decorations.
Tip: Don’t miss the **King’s and Queen’s bedchambers**, and be sure to admire the intricate **tapestries** and **ceiling carvings** known as the **Stirling Heads**, which depict various historical and mythical figures.
3. Admire the Stirling Heads Gallery
Why it’s a must: The **Stirling Heads** are a collection of intricately carved wooden medallions that once adorned the ceiling of the **King’s Inner Hall**. These depict Scottish royalty, mythological figures, and members of the European elite. The gallery allows visitors to get a close look at these Renaissance masterpieces.
Tip: Take some time to explore the interactive exhibits that explain the history and significance of the **Stirling Heads**, and discover how they were restored and replicated.
4. Wander Through the Queen Anne Gardens
Why it’s a must: The **Queen Anne Gardens**, located on the southern side of the castle, offer a serene and picturesque spot to relax while enjoying stunning views over **Stirling** and the surrounding countryside. The gardens were designed in the **18th century** and remain a peaceful escape
Tip: Visit in the **spring** or **summer** when the gardens are in full bloom. It’s also a great place for a picnic or a quiet moment away from the more crowded castle areas.
5. Explore the Chapel Royal
Why it’s a must: Built in **1594** by **James VI** for the baptism of his son, **Prince Henry**, the **Chapel Royal** is a beautiful example of **Renaissance architecture**. The chapel features stunning **painted ceilings** and **religious artwork**.
Tip: Look for the **royal emblems** and **Christian symbols** on the ceiling, and learn about the important ceremonies that took place here, including royal baptisms and weddings.
6. Learn About the Castle’s Military History
Why it’s a must: Stirling Castle has been a key military stronghold throughout Scottish history, particularly during the **Wars of Scottish Independence** and the **Jacobite Risings**. The **Regimental Museum of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders**, located within the castle, provides a detailed account of the military history of this famous regiment.
Tip: Explore the museum’s exhibits, which include **medals**, **uniforms**, and **military equipment** from various conflicts. Don’t miss the stories of the **Battle of Stirling Bridge** and the **Battle of Bannockburn**, both of which were fought nearby.
7. Take in the Views from the Castle Ramparts
Why it’s a must: The castle’s elevated position offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the **Ochil Hills**, the **Wallace Monument**, and the **River Forth**. Walking along the **ramparts** gives you a sense of the castle’s strategic importance.
Tip: The views are even more stunning on a clear day, so be sure to bring your camera. From the ramparts, you can also spot the famous **Bannockburn Battlefield**, where **Robert the Bruce** defeated the English in 1314.
8. Step Inside the Castle Kitchens
Why it’s a must: The **castle kitchens** have been recreated to show what life was like for the cooks and servants who prepared food for the royal court. The displays include **life-sized models**, **tools**, and **ingredients** used in the 16th century.
Tip: The kitchens are a fun and interactive part of the castle, especially for children. Look out for the **feast preparation displays**, which show the kinds of food that might have been served at a royal banquet.
9. Learn About Mary, Queen of Scots
Why it’s a must: Stirling Castle was the childhood home of **Mary, Queen of Scots**, and she was crowned here as an infant. The castle offers detailed exhibits about her life and reign, including her time spent in the castle and the challenges she faced as queen.
Tip: Visit the **Royal Apartments**, where you can learn more about Mary’s upbringing and the political intrigues of her time. The castle also hosts **reenactments** and **costumed interpreters** who bring Mary’s story to life.
10. Join a Guided Tour
Why it’s a must: A **guided tour** is one of the best ways to fully appreciate the history and significance of Stirling Castle. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the lives of the royals who lived here and the battles fought for control of the castle.
Tip: Most tours are included with your admission ticket, and they run regularly throughout the day. You can also opt for an **audio guide** if you prefer to explore at your own pace.
Official Website: Stirling Castle | Historic Environment Scotland
Main Positive Reviews:
Amazing historical site with stunning views. The castle is well-preserved and the tour guides are knowledgeable.
Great experience. Loved the interactive exhibits and the kids had a fantastic time.
Beautiful architecture and rich history. A must-visit if you’re in Scotland.
Friendly staff and well-maintained grounds. Worth every penny.
Fantastic day out. The audio guide is very informative and the scenery is breathtaking.
Excellent. Free guided tours, but you just need to arrive early and request to join, using the Explorer Pass for Scotland (which we bought for two weeks) offers a significant discount, more than half off, and also reserves entry time, parking is very convenient.
Outstanding, helpful staff dressed in period costume; definitely the must-see castle in Scotland, even better than Edinburgh Castle. The tour guides are very enthusiastic! Other staff are great and knowledgeable! They even answered many of my questions.
Great place to visit. Rich in history and well-maintained. The staff are very friendly and great with kids.
The castle offers very interesting and fun interactive experiences in the dungeons.
There are live performances throughout the castle, and the views are stunning.
Stirling Castle is a gem. The history is fascinating and the views are incredible.
Loved the guided tour. The stories and historical context provided were excellent.
Very educational and engaging for all ages. Great for a family day out.
Beautifully restored castle with lots to see and do. Highly recommend.
Great value for money. The ticket includes access to several parts of the castle.
Main Negative Reviews:
Expensive entry fee for what’s on offer. Could have more exhibits.
Crowded and hard to enjoy the experience fully.
Not as impressive as other Scottish castles. Felt a bit overrated.
Limited accessibility for disabled visitors.
Someone said: The restoration work does not respect the nearly 1000-year history of the castle and makes it feel very 'fake,' like being in Disneyland.
The castle is only impressive from the outside. Inside, there are only two rooms with furniture and replicas, no interesting exhibits, no engaging displays. Part of the castle is a children's playground, combined with groups of people and screaming kids, no fun, waste of money.
One review mentioned: I recommend buying tickets online as it gets very crowded.
Quite beautiful from the outside, but the tickets are quite expensive and there is nothing inside.
Someone said: The only issue is parking. After entering the castle, we found how useless these audio guides initially were—rambling, lost in details, not answering basic questions, repeating information, and very unclear on any suggested routes.
A bit pricey for what’s there. Felt like there could be more to see.
Too many tourists, which made it hard to enjoy the exhibits.
Dogs are not allowed to into the castle, not dogs friendly!
Some of the interactive displays were not working.
Overall Analysis
Cost:
Adult: £17.50 per ticket
Child: £10.50 per ticket
Concession: £14 per ticket
Family Ticket (1 Adult + 2 Children): £34.50 per booking
Stirling Castle generally receives high praise for its historical significance, well-maintained grounds, and educational value. Most visitors find the experience worth the cost, appreciating the knowledgeable guides and interactive exhibits. However, some common criticisms include the high entry fee, crowded conditions, and occasional renovations that limit access.
Is it Worth Visiting:
Worth visiting. The castle’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and engaging exhibits make it a valuable addition to any Scotland itinerary.
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