Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle History

Visiting Stirling Castle takes you back in history to enter the world of Scotland’s kings, queens and royal splendour. Only 25 miles away from us here at Loch Lomond Waterfront, the car drive takes less than an hour. The beautiful gardens, welcoming staff and family attractions make it a must-see location and perfect option for a day trip.

Sat atop a volcanic rock above the Forth river, Stirling Castle divides the Lowlands and the Highlands. With its ancient history, it has witnessed many births, deaths and battles. During the Wars of Independence between Scotland and England, it changed hands eight times within 50 years, making it one of Scotland’s most important historical sites.

Apart from the battles of Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn, it was also home to Stewart kings and queens. In times of peace, royals would visit Stirling to hunt and enjoy its comforts. They would also hold celebrations such as Mary Queen of Scots’ coronation in 1543 in Chapel Royal. Later on, the castle would become a military base and depot for Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders up until 1964. Now it’s a must-see visitor attraction full of beauty and history.

Visiting Stirling Castle Today

When you visit the castle you will see costumed characters roaming around dressed as bodyguards, court officials and maids from the 16th century! Stirling Castle offers attractions for children such as palace vaults, interactive games, dressing up costumes and medieval instruments. Guaranteed fun for the whole family! Other highlights of the castle include the Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Castle Exhibition, Great Kitchens, Tapestry Studio and the Argyll’s Lodging.

Are you interested in the infinitary regiment and want to learn more about the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders? If so, you can visit the Regimental Museum located in the King’s Old Building and learn about the soldiers’ stories. And when you get hungry you can stop by the Unicorn Café to replenish your energy.

Find out more

For Stirling Castle tickets, opening times, visitor information and parking, plan your unforgettable trip here.

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Testimonials

  • A perfect place to relax

    'Stayed at the Waterfront Lodges for a Fri to Mon short break for our daughters birthday last weekend. Lodge was placed right on the edge of Loch Lomond with stunning views.'
  • The Lodges are amazing

    'I would like to say that we all had an amazing time staying your lodges at the weekend.  The Lodges are amazing.  Beautifully presented and everything you need within.  Stunning location.  Muy birthday/retirement celebrations were made all the more special at this wonderful location with my friends around me.'
  • Our own private beach

    'Just walking along the West Highland way path past some of the crowded beaches made us realise the value of having your own private waterfront onto the loch.  I can still picture walking down to the lochside on our first evening and watching an osprey dive for a fish!'
  • Right up there with the best

    'We have travelled the world and stayed in all sorts of accommodation - Loch Lomond Waterfront is right up there with the best. The facilities, quality of fixtures and fittings and the setting all add up to a superb holiday experience and one that I have no hesitation in recommending to anyone. Outstanding!'
  • Outstanding location

    'The location is outstanding - right on the edge of Loch Lomond with private water frontage and beaches. As a location for exploring, again this rates very highly. We easily accessed central Glasgow by train from nearby Balloch and also explored Stirling (particularly the castle and Wallace memorial), the Falkirk Wheel and even Perth and Pitlochry by car. It is a very peaceful place, which can only be disturbed on occasion by your neighbours but with the Slumber Charter in place, we had absolutely no problems overnight.'