If you love history then you’ll love Stirling.
Sometimes described as a ‘little Edinburgh’, Stirling practically bleeds Scottish history. It has cobbled streets, a magnificent castle, a famous monument, and more Scottish history than you can shake a stick at.
It’s honestly impressive just how much is crammed into one little city. Let’s do a quick whistle-stop tour of some things to do in Stirling.
Stirling in 30 seconds…
Contents
If you’re visiting for the day then your first stop has to be Stirling Castle.
It was the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots and has so many points of interest inside – the royal palace, kitchens, chapel royal and humungous great hall, which is the biggest in Scotland.
The Wallace Monument is a short bus ride or a 40-minute walk away – climb the 246 steps and see William Wallace’s real-life sword before emerging at the top. The views are unreal! Rod Stewart even visited recently, which is a proper seal of approval if there ever was one.
Continuing the history theme, the Battle of Bannockburn visitor centre is also located nearby, and then there’s Stirling Bridge which is pretty famous as well. Although it didn’t make the cut in Braveheart for some reason.
Aside from Scottish history, there are also lots of other things to do in Stirling, including climbing hills, wandering through graveyards, drinking cocktails, and lots of traditional restaurants to enjoy.
But first, let’s answer an important question…
Is Stirling worth visiting?
I may be biased because I live here. Stirling is definitely worth seeing.
It’s history with a capital H. Whenever I catch sight of the castle perched on the rock looking down on the city I can’t help but think how cool it looks, especially when you consider how much Scottish history went down there over the years. And then I’ll be walking home from the top of the town and catch sight of the National Wallace Monument, all lit up.
Those are two big must-sees if you ever plan a trip to Stirling, but they’re certainly not all there is to visit. There’s the local gin distillery and whisky bar, the old town with its jail and spooky ghost tours, and more.
It may be on a smaller scale but there’s lots to see and do, which makes it worth a day trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow, or a trip all of its own.
Is there anything that makes Stirling not worth visiting?
“Be honest”, says David Beckham to Victoria in that meme, so let’s do that.
Stirling won’t be for everyone. “There’s something for everyone” is one of the worst sentences in travel blogging, because it’s simply not true.
You’re not going to click with every city you visit, so let’s unpack the reasons why you may not enjoy the city of Stirling…
It’s not a big city…
For the most part, I like a city you can walk around. The capital, Edinburgh, is the perfect sized city in my eyes, because while there’s plenty of it to explore, most of it is walkable. If you’re just visiting for the day, there’s plenty to see in the centre without having to catch a bus or tram.
Stirling takes small to new levels. It feels like a village sometimes, with only one nightclub to its name – Fu Bar. If you want more buzz, and better shops (there’s not even a Zara) I’d recommend going to another city.
The food scene isn’t as exciting…
The small size of the city sometimes gets on my nerves when it comes to food. Sometimes I want to be able to go somewhere super boujie and trendy for brunch, but Stirling is more hearty and wholesome.
However, because Stirling is so well placed between Edinburgh and Glasgow you’re never more than 45 minutes away from a fancy food fix. Which is why I always end up hopping on a train to the capital…
It’s a bit wild and outdoorsy…
The surroundings of Stirling are gorgeous. You have the castle propped up on a big rocky pedestal looking all grand and outrageous, the King’s Knot ‘pleasure ground’ below (a grassy space), and all the surrounding hills.
However, if you’re not bothered about scenery and nature, and you want to walk along pavements and push through crowds, Stirling might not be your vibe. I love it and it’s one of the reasons I wanted to move here, but if you’re looking for more of a busy urban scene, it’s not for you.
There’s a LOT of Scottish history…
As I mentioned earlier, there’s a lot of history that went down in Stirling over the years. If you’ve got an interest in Scottish history, it makes Stirling the ideal location for getting your fix. You won’t get bored here!
If that’s not your jam, and you want a place where you can go shopping or you just want the buzz of a big city, Stirling probably isn’t the first choice of destination for you. It’s not ONLY a history lover’s destination, of course, but most of the main sightseeing itineraries are history-related.
Did I mention the hills?
Ha, this seems to be the case for a lot of Scottish cities – well, Edinburgh is the same at least. Stirling Castle is located in an area known as the ‘tap of the toon’, which basically means that it’s at the top of the hill. And that means for you – a gentle and sometimes not-so-gentle incline!
It’s not too bad in the grand scheme of things, but I always tend to be a bit out of puff by the time I get to where the castle is located.
It’s worth the walk once you get there though!
How to get to Stirling
Stirling is in a great location, smack bang in the central belt of Scotland.
That’s one of the reasons I moved here – because it is so central and well-located if you want to get to other cities quickly and easily.
The train station is in the city centre and is directly next to the bus station. So in other words, if you’re making a day trip or staying for longer, getting to Stirling is really straightforward.
Glasgow to Stirling
The train from Glasgow to Stirling takes around 30 minutes.
It varies between 25 minutes and 35 minutes, but basically, it’s a super short, easy journey! Do note that you need to get the train from Glasgow Queen Street station, rather than Glasgow Central, though.
Now let’s talk about the bus. You can get a Megabus or a Citylink bus directly to Stirling from Glasgow’s Buchanan bus station. The journey takes just shy of 45 minutes.
There are several buses a day and it’ll cost you around £6.50.
Edinburgh to Stirling
How do you get to Stirling from Edinburgh? A return ticket on the train to Stirling costs around £10 for and takes 45 minutes, and you can get the train from both Waverly or Haymarket stations as it goes through both stations on the way.
As for the bus, it’s the same as above – Megabus and Citylink are the providers you need. The bus takes around an hour and a half and will cost roughly £6.50.
Where to stay in Stirling
I live in the old town of Stirling so I don’t have first-hand experience of staying in any of the hotels here. However, I do have a gym membership at the Stirling Highland Hotel, which is only about five minutes walk from Stirling Castle. Here are my (honest) thoughts…
It’s not perfect, as from what I can see it is a little bit tired décor-wise. That’s the bad news. The positives are that it has a swimming pool with a jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna.
Again, the pool and spa area is a bit tired décor-wise, but it does the job. If the thought of being able to sit in a lovely hot sauna after a day of walking and being a tourist appeals, you’re in luck!
Hotels in Stirling:
Friar’s Wynd Hotel
Great location on one of the oldest streets in Stirling. The rooms look cute from what I can see on the website and the restaurant is lovely, it was the first place I went to (for brunch) when I moved here!
Stirling Highland Hotel
As I said, it’s not perfect and I don’t have personal experience of staying here. But it does have a steam room, sauna, and decent-sized pool!
Premier Inn Stirling
Yes, it’s a chain but I’ve got a soft spot for a Premier Inn over other budget chain hotels. You get a comfy bed and a good breakfast, what’s not to like?
What to do in Stirling
1. Stirling Castle
Of course, your first stop should be the castle!
Stirling Castle has been a royal residence, military stronghold, and focal point for political intrigue. It’s possibly most famous for being the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots. But the castle’s strategic location afforded it a crucial role in battles such as the Wars of Scottish Independence, most notably the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297.
Visitors to Stirling Castle can explore its well-preserved structures, including the imposing Great Hall, which is enormous. The Royal Palace, adorned with intricate tapestries and period furnishings, offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Scottish monarchy.
My favourite part was walking along the walls and taking in all the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Wallace Monument and the Ochil Hills.
If you want to grab lunch afterwards, there’s a restaurant directly outside. The Portcullis has a cosy fire and delicious pub grub such as mac ’n’ cheese, soup, burgers, and other hearty dishes.
2. Stirling Bridge
Just a short stroll from the city centre is Stirling Bridge.
Erected in the 1400s or 1500s, this bridge isn’t the famous bridge in the Battle of Stirling Bridge – that was a wooden bridge that is no longer here. However, this medieval arched bridge was built as a replacement.
1297’s Battle of Stirling Bridge is etched into the annals of Scottish history, where William Wallace leading the Scots to a pivotal triumph against the English army at this very site. Interestingly, the iconic bridge did not make it to the cinematic portrayal of the battle in Braveheart; instead, the battleground shifted to a muddy field. I’m not sure why.
The tactics for the battle was really interesting and were what led to the Scottish victory. Only two men on horseback could cross the narrow bridge simultaneously.
Wallace seized the opportune moment, waiting for approximately 2000 men to cross before launching the attack. The bend in the river meant the English forces unable to retreat and secured Scotland’s victory.
3. National Wallace Monument
Say you’re iconic without saying you’re iconic, like this.
The Wallace Monument was opened in 1869 to pay tribute to that guy from the movie, William Wallace. Kidding. The monument is one of the most famous landmarks in Stirling, built to celebrate one of the most iconic figures from Scottish history, and I think it does him justice.
You can see it peeping over the skyline from lots of different places in the city. Apparently, it played into the Victorian trend of building public statues and monuments to honour historical figures – just think of the Scott Monument in Edinburgh, as another example.
Now for the bad news, and the good news. Let’s start with the bad news. There’s no lift and yes you will have to climb it, all 246 steps of it, if you want to see the views from the top.
Thankfully you don’t have to do it all in one go – there are rooms on the way up with some little artefacts that may be of interest. You know, like William Wallace’s sword. Yep, all 1.68 metres of his real-life sword are stored in the Hall of Arms in the monument.
Also, the views from the top are amazing. You can see the castle, the bridge, everything. I was there on pretty much the windiest day ever, but you can’t deny those views. I have a detailed post with prices and how you can get there from the city centre, as it’s a little out of town.
4. Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre
Want to walk along the ground where it all actually happened?
Well, you can’t quite do that as no one knows the exact location of the battle. But you can get pretty close here!
The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, which is located just outside Stirling, offers an immersive and educational experience. Visitors can step back in time and relive one of Scotland’s most pivotal moments, the historic Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.
Let’s brush up on exactly what happened at this particular battle. It was the big one – it was when Robert the Bruce’s Scottish forces secured a decisive victory over the English. And the visitor centre provides a comprehensive overview of the conflict.
The highlight of the experience is the Battle Game, an interactive simulation that allows visitors to take on the role of a commander, making strategic decisions and experiencing the intensity of the battle first-hand. The centre’s guides further enhance the visit, offering in-depth insights into the tactics, weaponry, and personalities involved in the conflict. Nice!
It’s a must-visit destination to delve into Scotland’s medieval past.
5. Old town jail
The jail is located just a stone’s throw from Stirling Castle so if you’re looking for historic things to do in Stirling that are roughly in the same area then this works a treat.
The Old Town Jail in Stirling, Scotland, offers visitors a chilling glimpse into the darker aspects of the city’s history. This atmospheric museum is housed in a historic building that served as a jail from 1847 until the 1930s, and it provides an immersive experience that explores the harsh realities of incarceration during that time.
You have two options – a self-guided audio tour or a “performance” tour with a guide. From what I’ve heard, this is a little bit theatrical with a tour guide in character playing a role, a bit like what you would experience at the Edinburgh Dungeon.
That always makes me feel a bit nervous, as I’m a bit of a wimp and I hate being picked on. I remember doing the Amsterdam Dungeon years ago and hiding at the back the whole time! If you want to do something a bit more chill then luckily there are the self-guided audio tours in multiple languages – described as “relaxed” tours.
Oh, and if you want a more immersive experience, there’s also a range of escape rooms that you can try – if you’re brave enough! I haven’t done it, but it sounds kinda fun!
6. Climb Dumyat
Dumyat is a hill located just outside of Stirling and if you fancy stretching your legs, you’ll get some great views of the area.
Just to be clear, it’s definitely not a munro. As someone who used to have a passing interest in ‘bagging munros’ (it’s on pause for now), I was mildly amused two-thirds of the way up when we entertained the idea that we were inadvertently bagging our first munro. Nope. It’s very much not.
However, despite some noise on the internet about how Dumyat is just a ‘brisk walk’ I would hasten to disagree – this one will break a sweat!
I would recommend going early doors to Dumyat. It’s pretty steep in places but the views are incredible. We were so high at some point that I mistook the clouds for mist, lol. I also happened to see a red deer bobbing around on the way back down – winning!
One other thing. I remember reading a kids’ book called Light on Dumyat when I was young and it tickled me that I was finally climbing this hill I’d read about 20 years ago. I can’t tell you anything about it other than one of the characters was called Tom but went by Mot, Tom backwards, but if you want to take a deeper dive into Dumyat then crack on!
I should also mention, you pronounce it du-my-at, rather than dumy-at.
7. Ghost walk
Just like Edinburgh, Stirling also has some grisly ghostly goings-on to learn about. Where can you learn all about them? On a ghost walk.
Embark on an eerie adventure through Stirling’s historic streets (and graveyards) with a spine-chilling experience that delves into the city’s haunted past. You’ll be led by an expert guide through the old town, in the dark, and they’ll bring to life the ghostly tales, legends, and mysteries that shroud Stirling in an otherworldly atmosphere.
Encounters with restless spirits, infamous historical figures, and mysteries captivate the imagination, creating an immersive experience that blends history with the supernatural. From the restless souls of the Old Town Jail to the spectral presences lingering near Stirling Castle, each stop on the Ghost Walks Tour is rich with eerie tales.
As with the old town jail, these tours are led by actors who will have a bit of fun with you. I remember a young lad with a yellow hoodie being referred to as “banana boy” throughout the tour, which everyone had a giggle at. Something to be aware of, for sure!
8. Stirling Distillery
Stirling Gin Distillery is one of the best things to do in Stirling, hands down. It offers visitors a unique and immersive experience in the world of artisanal gin production. It’s small but perfectly formed and feels like a different kind of distillery experience.
I booked in for a gin tasting event as part of a meet-up group event. There were about 12 of us and we pretty much took over the whole distillery – it’s that small! But I loved hearing about all the stories behind the different gins they had there. There was even one that was created in honour of the Pink Lady – one of the ghosts I’d heard about on the ghost tour.
She apparently died of a broken heart after her lover was killed in battle – defending Stirling Castle from the English in 1304. A ghostly figure known as the pink lady can be seen wandering the castle in her distinctive pink robes in the middle of the night. The gin is inspired by her, but they had to change the name so it’s now just Stirling Pink Gin.
A visit to Stirling Gin Distillery promises a delightful blend of history, craftsmanship, and, of course, the chance to enjoy some of Scotland’s finest artisanal gin. The distillery is also located only a 15-minute walk from the city centre, so you don’t need a designated driver.
9. The beheading stone
Here’s another dose of history for you, and once again it’s a little bit grisly.
The Beheading Stone is located on the top of Gowan Hill in Stirling, which is in the east of the city, approximately around a 15-walk from the centre of town. The hill also has a few other names – Murdoch’s Knowe, Hurlie Haw, and the aptly titled Heiding Hill.
A short steep walk will take you up to the top of the hill. It’s here that you will see the traditional medieval execution block encased in a metal cage with a plaque.
Apparently, the executions here were reserved for people who had committed treason. One of the most notable people to be executed here was the Duke of Albany in 1425, who was the grandson of King Robert II, the founder of the Stewart Dynasty.
A lot of the things to do in Stirling that I’ve suggested are quite busy. This, on the other hand, is very peaceful and quiet. Despite the grumesome-ness of the location, I love sitting on the bench at the top and taking in the views of the Wallace Monument.
There are also a couple of cannons at the top. This is Stirling, after all!
10. Church of the Holy Rude
Constructed in the late 15th century, this medieval parish church boasts remarkable architecture and has played a central role in significant events, including royal coronations.
Here’s some facts. The church is where James VI was crowned in 1567, making it the only church in the United Kingdom other than Westminster Abbey to have held a coronation. Mary Queen of Scots also worshipped here, so that’s another claim to fame.
The church’s name, “holy rude,” is derived from the Old Scots term for the holy cross. But now for my confession: I was today’s years old when I learned what that “holy rude” meant, so there you go. I had puzzled that for a while. Blogging is an education!
Visitors to the Church of the Holy Rude can marvel at its magnificent vaulted ceiling, stunning stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and the elegant Crown Tower. I’m not religious but there is something about religious architecture, I admit.
Beyond the lovely architecture, the Church of the Holy Rude offers a peaceful escape from the city (not that it’s that busy, mind) and a glimpse into the historical past.
11. Kings Park
Need a breather from all that history? Head to this lovely green space in the city. Of course, it ties into the history of the city – it was once used as the hunting ground for the court.
There’s not too much to say about Kings Park – it’s simply a large green space. There are tennis courts, a skate park, and a children’s play area. Although, a large area of the park is taken up by a golf course, so you might have to keep an eye out for rogue golf balls.
To be honest, my favourite thing about going to Kings park is staring at all the enormous houses that surround it. This is very much the millionaire’s row area of town and I just love checking out the houses and deciding which one I’d live in if I was loaded! One day, eh?
12. Smith art gallery and museum
Nestled in the west end of the city in the shadow of the castle, the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum is more than a repository — it’s a proper celebration of Scottish art.
In fact, the first time I walked past it, the columns outside were playfully wrapped in Tunnock’s tea cake wrappers – an iconic Scottish biscuit if you don’t know. I’m actually not sure if you’d call it a biscuit actually, but let’s not start a debate about that or we’ll be here all day.
Anyway, this was due to an exhibition which featured a really cool piece of art called Easy Tiger by the Mach brothers, which consists of a tiger wrapped up in Tunnock’s tea cake wrappers. And the good news is that it’s now part of the permanent collection here.
I don’t know too much else about the Smith but it’s worth a visit!
13. Cambuskenneth Abbey
This beautiful abbey is located only a short walk from Stirling city centre, but it’s so tucked away you’ll barely know that it’s there until you’re standing right in front of it.
Cambuskenneth is a tiny village that you get to by crossing the bridge from the riverside area of Stirling. I only discovered it on a walk a few months ago, I turned a corner and there were fields, open countryside and this gigantic – and magnificent – abbey. It’s a really tranquil location which is exactly what you need to soak up its serene beauty.
Founded in the 12th century, the abbey played a crucial role in Scottish history. It was built in 1140 to serve Stirling Castle and it was where parliament met after the Battle of Bannockburn. It also served as a mausoleum for Scottish monarchs, with the tomb of James III and his wife Queen Margaret located within its walls.
The abbey’s striking architecture, including the remnants of its gothic-style church and bell tower, provides a glimpse into its former grandeur. Its riverside location, near the confluence of the River Forth and the Bannockburn, adds to its charm.
14. Star pyramid
This is one of these random things that I stumbled across when mooching around the top of the town on a walk. It’s kind of bizarre finding a stone pyramid on your doorstep when you’re not expecting it but there we go – this is Scotland. Anyway, it’s pretty cool.
I guess it’s a bit like the stone pyramid in the Balmoral Estate, known as Prince Albert’s cairn, which was erected by Queen Victoria when he husband passed away. This star pyramid in Stirling was built in memory of those who gave their lives for Scottish civil and religious liberty. It was commissioned by a guy called William Drummond in 1863.
As known as Salem’s Rock, it’s very quirky and unusual, especially as you’ll find it in the old town cemetery next to Stirling Castle. It would be good to know a bit more about it though – I’ve seen it described as something out of a Dan Brown novel and that about sums it up. It’s a bit enigmatic and mysterious, but perhaps that’s part of its charm.
15. Mar’s Wark
The only thing that remains of this ruined old building is the façade, but it’s still pretty impressive. It’s just a few steps away from my house and every time I walk past it I can’t help but stare at how beautiful it is, but it’s one of those things that flies under the radar.
There’s a tiny plaque outside it that tells you a little bit more about its history, but here’s the scoop. It used to an old renaissance mansion that belonged to John Erskine, the Earl of Mar, who was the keeper of Stirling Castle – which is just a short walk up the hill.
Construction of the town house started in the 1560s or 1570s and King James IV even stayed there once. It was also used as barracks during the Jacobite uprising. These days there isn’t much to see but if you’re walking but from the castle it’s worth popping by – it’s only a few steps from the oldest pub in Stirling so you can kill two birds with one stone.
Things to do near Stirling
Bridge of Allan
If you’re in Stirling then you may want to leave an hour or two to explore the nearby town, Bridge of Allan. It’s a well-to-do neighbourhood (read: a bit posh) with lots of lovely places to grab a bite to eat. Well, I say lots, I really mean proportionally to its relatively small size.
The town is dotted with Victorian-era buildings, including the iconic Keir House, and the vibrant main street has several boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
I can recommend Friend of Mine for brunch or coffee, but if you go make sure you book as it’s always, always full to the rafters. If you’re looking for dining options, celebrity chef Nick Nairn also recently reopened his restaurant Nairn’s in Bridge of Allan.
Dunblane cathedral
Dunblane is a sleepy little town that is located close to Stirling.
It’s a cute little place and it’s where tennis player Andy Murray is from. Did you know, it has a gold post box in the high street which is a nod to the gold medal that Andy won in the 2012 Olympics. And one of the other must-sees in Dunblane is the cathedral.
Set next to the river, the cathedral is a magnificent example of medieval architecture. Built in the 12th century, the cathedral boasts a stunning combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with intricate stone carvings and a beautifully preserved nave.
The cathedral has witnessed centuries of Scottish history, including the coronation of the infant King James VI in 1567. Visitors can explore the atmospheric interior, adorned with stained glass windows and ornate furnishings. The Leighton Library, housed within the cathedral precincts, is one of the oldest private libraries in Scotland.
Blair Drummond safari park
Blair Drummond Safari Park is located just outside Stirling. It’s a great wildlife attraction that combines education and entertainment in a picturesque setting. Spread across 120 acres, the park offers visitors the chance to embark on a safari adventure, encountering exotic animals such as lions, elephants, and giraffes in spacious, naturalistic habitats.
It’s a unique experience where guests can drive through reserves where animals roam freely. Additionally, the park features interactive animal presentations, including sea lion shows and bird of prey displays, so it’s educational as well as fun.
I remember going to the safari park as a kid but for some reason my parents were never quite as keen. I think it was something to do with the threat of monkeys jumping onto the windscreen and bending the windscreen wipers back just for fun. Ha!
The Kelpies
25 minutes drive from Stirling is the town of Falkirk, which is home to the Kelpies – Scotland’s towering equine guardians. Designed by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, these two colossal sculptures pay homage to mythical water creatures known as “kelpies.”
Kelpies are mythical shape-shifting beings that are said to take the form of horses on land. But they have a dark side, and lure unsuspecting souls into their aquatic lairs.
The Kelpies were part of a £40 million project to transform an old industrial site into a public space. Standing at a staggering 30 metres tall and crafted from shimmering stainless steel, they certainly do that. I don’t know if they can strictly be counted on a list of the best things to do in Stirling, but they’re certainly impressive – and they’re free to visit.
Things to do in Stirling at night
I’ve touched on a few things already but let’s just collate all of the best ways to spend an evening in Stirling. I would recommend starting your evening with a ghost walk through the old town.
This is a great way to learn more about the history of some of the old buildings. Plus, when else do you get to wander through a spooky graveyard at dusk with a dude in a cloak?
After that. I’d grab some food at one of the cosy restaurants – maybe Italia Nostra, which I’ll talk about a bit more below. Then, head to Meraki’s for a couple of delicious cocktails for dessert! If you’re still game for more after that, there’s always Fu Bar…
Where to eat in Stirling
Brunch/lunch
Fletchers
I’ve been to Fletchers once for brunch and once for Christmas dinner, and both times were excellent. It all looks rather grand from the outside with elegant stone columns at the entrance, but inside it’s down to earth and welcoming. It’s a family-run place after all.
The thing I hear people talk about the most regarding Fletchers are the breakfasts. They have breakfast bagels, fried chicken waffles, breakfast tostadas, a croque madame, and lots more – as well as your usual full cooked breakfasts. What I like about it is it’s a little bit unusual, it’s not just your typical eggs benny and avo on toast and not much else.
The festive menu I had at Fletchers was also really good. I don’t know if they do it all the time but I had a Biscoff cheesecake for my dessert and it was one of the best things I’ve eaten in ages. If you do get a chance to try the dessert menu, I 100% would.
Toast
The clue is in the name – Toast is one of the best places to go for brunch in Stirling. How can you tell? Generally, because every time I walk past there’s a massive queue outside.
There’s an extensive breakfast menu at Toast. There have three or four different kinds of oats to choose from, loads of varieties of eggs, omelettes, breakfast bagels, filled rolls, French toast and your traddy Scottish breakfast, including veggies and vegan versions.
I’ve only been once but I got the Forest Eggs – scrambled eggs with mushrooms, crumbled feta, wilted spinach and toasted pine nuts on two thick slabs of nutty wholemeal toast.
Unorthodox Roasters
This is the place to come for great coffee in Stirling.
It’s located on Friars Street, just across the road from another place I’ll mention, Friars Wynd. I love this street because it has a little bit of olde world charm alongside the cafes, restaurants and shops.
Inside, the décor is beautiful. Think dark navy panelling, industrial shelving, and cute patterned tiles behind the counter. There was also a charming old-fashioned modular desk lamp on our table that loved.
As well as the standard offering of lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos, they have beetroot, turmeric, and matcha lattes which sound delicious.
I went for a mocha with oat milk. I’m not a big coffee drinker so I didn’t really expect too much but I think it was one of the best mochas I’ve ever had, combining really intense coffee and chocolate flavours.
HBW Coffee
Looking for a good brunch option for vegans in Stirling. You’re in luck!
This is exactly what you can expect at HBW Coffee in Stirling. Their whole menu is vegan as standard, so you’ll find vegan breakfast burritos, pancake stacks with maple syrup and fake bacon (seitan?), scrambled tofu on sourdough toast, and many more delicious-sounding breakfast dishes. They also do great coffee if you’re into the strong stuff.
Oh, and let’s not forget their vegan donuts. These came highly recommended by our new neighbours when we first moved to Stirling and they did not disappoint!
Café Aina
The café is owned and run by a Greek/Cypriot family and is pretty affordable, so it’s a great option for lunch or if you want a budget-friendly dinner in Stirling.
There are an abundance of souvlakis – pitta breads – to choose from, along with burgers, salads, and paninis. I opted for a halloumi souvlaki which comes with homemade tzatziki, grilled onions and a handful of fries, all stuffed in a deliciously soft pitta bread. Yum!
If you’re vegetarian or vegan Café Aina is a great choice as there are a ton of choices on the menu, including numerous vegan desserts! They also so a 10% discount for students.
Dinner
The Portcullis
Stirling does traditional restaurants very well and cosy restaurant The Portcullis is a great example. It makes the perfect pitstop after an afternoon of being a tourist at Stirling Castle as it’s directly outside. The roaring fire will make you feel welcome and ready to relax.
I remember walking in for the first time on a cold dark night and being directed to our seats right next to this crackling open fire and just thinking I was in heaven. With steaks, lasagne, fish and chips, and highland chicken on the menu, it’s the perfect comfort food spot.
It’s not somewhere that’s going to set the heather on fire with new and exciting dishes.
However, if you like traditional pubs with hearty food then you’ll like it. I ordered mac and cheese with chips and inhaled the lot. Don’t forget the strawberry cheesecake!
Friar’s Wynd
I mentioned this place earlier when I was talking about places to stay. It’s on one of the oldest streets in Stirling – the pedestrianised Friar’s Wynd. It all just feels a little bit olde-worlde here and the traditional feel of Friar’s Wynd is very much part of that vibe.
It has a lovely cosy feel inside, with exposed bricks, a huge fireplace, and traditional Scottish décor. and I could definitely see myself sipping a hot drink and watching the world go by.
As it happens, I’ve only been here for breakfast rather than in the evening. However, it was really good both times so I’m confident that the evening menu would be just the same.
Italia Nostra
There are a few Italian restaurants in Stirling but this one is my favourite. It’s an independent, family-run Italian restaurant and it’s located in the centre of Stirling, and so it has a lot going for it already. It’s also one of TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice 2021.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. It’s everything I love about an authentic Italian restaurant – low ceilings, wooden beams, and candles lighting up every table. It’s a little pricier than I would want to pay but as an occasional treat, it does the job.
Last time I was there I ordered steak Diane, my absolute favourite, which is steak with a sauce made from mushrooms, Dijon mustard, double cream and brandy. And their homemade tiramisu was the bomb.
Where to drink in Stirling
Curly Coo
This is Stirling’s only whisky bar and it stocks an impressive amount of whisky – over 120 malt whiskies. The owner is also really knowledgeable about whisky. Located a five-minute walk from the city centre, a trip here means you’re only ever a short stagger home.
Describing itself as a “friendly wee bar”, it’s rather charming – even if it’s not a character pub with wooden beams or a lovely cosy fireplace, which is kind of what you want when you drink whisky. And if you’re not a fan of the peaty stuff, there’s still plenty of other drinks to take your fancy. Whenever I’m in there I seem to be ordering Corona, oops.
It does get some mixed reviews, mostly about the landlady. My take? I saw the landlady described as a ‘sassy pants proprietor’ on another blog, which sounds about right. I’ve never had any issues when I’ve been in, even when I’m ordering Corona in a whisky bar, so there you go.
They also do regular whisky-tasting nights, where the whisky is accompanied by a cheese board! Now that could be the game-changer that gets me into whisky. Maybe. Look up their Facebook page to see when their next whisky-tasting event is planned.
Settle Inn
Otherwise known as my local, the Settle Inn is a traditional pub that feels like it’s been around for centuries. And it really has – it’s actually Stirling’s oldest alehouse and first opened its doors in 1736! It also used to be known as the Red Lion.
It also has a connection to Scottish history, which probably isn’t that much of a surprise because, y’know, Stirling. Anyway, Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army commandeered the pub during their brief occupation of the town, which happened in January 1746.
I’ve only been here a couple of times but I really like it. There’s an open fire so if you want to keep cosy in the winter it’s the perfect spot, even if there are only two or three tables by the fire. It also does live music, which was on last time I was there, and it was great!
And even though it feels like a pub for the locals the staff and other punters have always been friendly and welcoming whenever I’ve been in. If you’re travelling with your dog then you’ll also be glad to know the Settle Is dog-friendly, so bring your pooch with you!
If you’ve done a tour at Stirling gin distillery then the Settle Inn is on the way back into town. It would almost be rude not to pop in for a quick half pint or two, right?
Nicky Tams
This pub is another oldie, but another goldie. It was first opened in 1718 and the family crest of the OG owner, Laird Graigengelt, is still visible above the doors. But even if you didn’t know the history of this place you could still tell it was old – those walls are hella thick.
I’ve only been in a couple of times for a few drinks but it was nice. It’s located next to a run of restaurants and bars in town so if you’re on a bit of a pub crawl it’s right in the mix. It also serves food although I can’t comment on that as I’ve never eaten here.
Meraki
When you think of Stirling you probably don’t necessarily think cocktail bars. However, this cosy cocktail bar is a regular haunt of mine. It’s bijou, so if you plan to come here I would recommend booking a table because the drinks are ace and you don’t want to get turned away at the door.
I’ve had many a Pornstar Martini here and I think they’re one of the best I’ve had, anywhere. They come with a passion fruit turned upside down and topped up with the strongest alcohol I’ve tasted, set on fire and alight with licking blue flames. Don’t drink this if you want to live.
You do have to order pornstar martinis off-menu now mind, but the staff are great. While there’s an extensive menu, if you tell them what you’d after, nine times out of ten they’ll be able to make it for you, no sweat.
King Cons
My second favourite cocktail bar in town in King Cons, which is handily located just along the road from Meraki’s – perfect if you didn’t book a table at Meraki’s. See above.
It’s another great cocktail bar. It’s not quite so snug and dark and mysterious as Meraki’s, but it’s very cool. Expect expertly mismatched gallery walls, neon signs with Instagram-worthy slogans, and lighting festooned with plants for an outdoor/indoor vibe.
The cocktail selection is generous and they come out looking just as good as they taste. Plus, if the drinks are a little stronger than expected, you can order food. There have a pretty decent selection of dishes here. I’ve only had nachos but there were bang on!
There’s also regular live music here so if that’s your jam, King Cons is the perfect spot. If it isn’t… well, take heart from the fact that it’s also a reasonable size. If you want a booth that isn’t half a metre away from the amps that’s within the realms of possibility.
Fu Bar
I mentioned this earlier and I’m only adding it again here because it’s one of those places people actually know. When I started a new job in Edinburgh a while back and said I lived in Stirling, people actually asked me about it. Little did they know that I’m a total bore who can’t think of anything worse than heading to a crowded, noisy, sticky-floored club.
To be honest, I have no idea if it has sticky floors or not as I’ve never been, I’ve just gazed at its shiny blue signage from the outside. So I’m leaving this here as an option if you’re craving a mad night oot in Stirling.
It does have a chippy next door though for the win.
Leave a Reply