Stirling Car Hire

Guide of Stirling

Geography

Stirling is a city in central Scotland, 26 miles (42 kilometres) northeast of Glasgow and 37 miles (60 kilometres) northwest of Edinburgh. Stirling, located on the River Forth, is the administrative centre for the Stirling council area and is historically the county town of Stirlingshire. It is known as the "Gateway to the Highlands" because of its strategic geographic importance.

Climate in Stirling

Stirling has chilly summers, cold winters, rainy and windy winters, and usually gloomy skies all year. The temperature normally ranges from 1°C to 19°C throughout the year, seldom falling below -6°C or rising over 23°C. Late June to late August is the ideal time of year to visit Stirling for warm-weather activities. However, the ideal time to visit Stirling is in the spring or fall, when people and weather are less of a concern.

Culture

A Danish invasion of Stirling is said to have occurred in the 9th century when the city was briefly ruled by the Anglo-Saxons. However, a wolf's howl woke up a sentinel, who in turn notified his garrison, driving the Vikings back. As a result, the wolf appeared on the Stirling Jug, a local memento from 1511. Wolfcraig is the modern-day name for the spot. The council's motto, "Steadfast as the Rock," and coat of arms, which features a wolf and a goshawk, date back to the early 20th century.

Things To Do in Stirling

Get enchanted inside Stirling Castle

The spectacular Stirling Castle, perched on the peak of a 250-foot extinct volcano, attracts hundreds of visitors every year. This remarkable monument, flanked on three sides by cliffs, is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. As you climb up the cobblestone main street to the castle terraces, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Stirling landscape, including the battles of Stirling Bridge. While wandering around its numerous historical chambers, you will get glimpses of the opulent lifestyle of Scottish nobility throughout the 1500s. The Royal Chapel and the Regimental Museum are both worth seeing. Another feature is the Great Hall, which is utilised for banquets and dancing and has stunning imperial chairs that will entice you to sit in them. Take some Instagram-worthy pictures. Costumed interpreters may accompany you throughout the tour with interesting short videos portraying the castle's heritage.

Climb the Wallace Monument

The Wallace Monument, which honours one of Scotland's most beloved heroes, Sir William Wallace, who fought in the Scottish War of Independence, is an essential must-see on your Stirling itinerary. It was built amid a rebirth of Scottish national identity in the nineteenth century. Climb the spiral stairs of 246 steps to reach the viewing decks. Exhibits in the Hall of Heroes and the Hall of Arms reflect significant events in Scottish history. The magnificent Gothic-style tower also contains a Tower Shop where you can purchase souvenirs and whisky from local distilleries. The story of Sir Wallace was portrayed in the 1995 Hollywood movie 'Braveheart.'

Visit the Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, located around 4 miles from Stirling, is the ideal location for a fun-filled family day. It is set over 120 acres of wonderful woods and is the ideal destination for a fun-filled family day. Get up and personal with over 300 species, including rhinos, lions, elephants, and zebras. Look for the free-roaming lemurs in Lemur Land or the chimps who are the closest to people on Chimp Island. The cheeky Barbery macaques and the swift swimmers, the penguins, will delight children. For a terrific half-hour, see the Birds of Prey programme. Then prepare to encounter around 20 life-size dinosaurs from the Jurassic Period. Inside the park, there are a variety of choices for lunch or snack breaks in between.

Eating Out in Stirling

Stirling is proud of its culinary culture, which includes numerous world-class restaurants and bars. Here are a handful of our favourites. The Birds and the Bees is an award-winning contemporary bar/bistro situated near the Wallace Monument. You'll love the variety of tasty pub fare and the comfortable atmosphere here. Tempura king prawns are a must-order. Gabe's Diner in the city centre is an excellent option for a quiet brunch. Enjoy their Thai curry or their French toast with eggs. The Rover House, located on a lake near Stirling Castle, is a perfect location for parties. Try British staples like king scallops with butternut purée and chorizo.

Transport

Airport

Stirling is served by Edinburgh International Airport (EDI), located 34 miles from the city centre.

Getting Around Stirling

Public transport is easily accessible to reach any tourist attraction. There are plenty of buses leaving Murray Place and the Bus Station. You can also avail yourself of taxis from the railway station. Throughout the city, you will find several cycle hire hubs as well. If you’re looking to explore the Stirling countryside and the spectacular Scottish highlands, consider hiring a car as public transit options have limited reach when it comes to stops outside of urban areas.