Highlights of Scotland: Kings, Queens & Battlefields - Royal Stirling & the fair city of Perth

Journey back in time in the historic royal capital
of Scotland and visit the crowning place of
Scotland’s first monarchs.

Stirling Castle

Scone Palace

Mill Glen, near Tillicoultry

Focus

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The National Wallace Monument

Entering Stirling from the M9 (J9), follow signs to the National Wallace Monument. Here William Wallace (‘Braveheart’) masterminded his famous victory over the invading English army, at Stirling Bridge, in 1297. The 246 steps to the top reveal magnificent views.

From the city centre follow the A9 / Glasgow Road to the Bannockburn Heritage Centre. The centre tells the story of the climax of Scotland’s Wars of Independence, when King Robert the Bruce defeated King Edward II of England here, in 1314.

Head via the city centre, following signs for Stirling Castle. Towering atop a volcanic outcrop, it’s easy to see why the castle was never taken – and why the Royal Palace here was a favourite home for Scotland’s Stuart Kings and Queens.

Beneath the castle the Old Town retains its historic charm. Follow the popular Back Walk or meander on cobbled streets among Scotland’s finest collection of historic buildings.

From Stirling take the M9 Northwards to Dunblane, with its attractive riverside walks and well-preserved 13th century cathedral.

Continue on the A9, passing the famous hotel and golf courses at Gleneagles and the ‘Lang Toon’ of Auchterarder.

Perth – scene of Sir Walter Scott’s ‘Fair Maid of Perth’ – is an attractive, floral city on the banks of the River Tay. Like Stirling, it offers fine shopping, eating and entertainments.

Cross the Tay in Perth to join the A93, signed for Scone Palace. The Moot Hill is where Scotland’s ancient lords crowned the nation’s monarchs. You can also visit the stately home of the Earls of Mansfield.

Return to Perth, then take the A93 then M90 to Milnathort. Turn West here on the A91, via the traditional ‘Hillfoots’ towns set beneath the beautiful Ochil Hills.

Visit spectacular Castle Campbell in Dollar; enjoy fantastic shopping at Sterling Furniture and Sterling Mills factory outlet centre in Tillicoultry; or sample a low-level walk along the Devon Way footpath, between Dollar and Tillicoultry.

Continue through Alva, Menstrie and Blairlogie (superb, challenging walks up Dumyat Hill), then take the A907 and A9 to the pleasant former spa town of Bridge of Allan.

Dunblane Cathedral

Bannockburn Heritage Centre

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LOOK OUT FOR

The National Wallace Monument, Stirling
Meet Scotland’s national hero, Sir William Wallace. See exhibitions, the ancient Wallace Sword and climb the 220-foot tower for spectacular views.

Bannockburn Heritage Centre, Stirling
The fascinating story of Scotland’s Wars of Independence, overlooking the site of King Robert the Bruce’s brilliant victory over Edward II of England, in 1314.

Stirling Castle
Grandest of all Scotland’s castles and a favourite royal residence, dramatically sited on a high volcanic outcrop. Walk the battlements and visit the royal apartments, Great Hall and medieval kitchens.

Church of the Holy Rude, Stirling Old Town
Historic church where King James the VI of Scotland (later James I of England) was crowned, in 1567. Magnificent stained glass windows.

Old Town Jail, Stirling
Meet Stirling’s notorious hangman, experience life in the cells and step back in time with daily living history performances.

Smith Art Gallery & Museum, Stirling
Changing exhibitions on local history, including the popular Stirling Story.

Dunblane Cathedral
Attractive and well-preserved 13th century cathedral, overlooking the Allan Water.

Cherrybank Gardens, Perth
Home to the Bell's National Heather Collection - the UK's largest display of heathers, skilfully designed to provide a rich mix of colour throughout the year.

Scone Palace, by Perth
Crowning place of Scotland’s monarchs from the 9th century and rightful home of the Stone of Destiny. Today’s palace, with its extensive grounds, is the magnificent stately home of the Earls of Mansfield.

Mill Glen, Tillicoultry
Stretch your legs along the twisting paths through this steep-sided glen, cutting deep into the beautiful Ochil Hills.

Ochil Hills Woodland Park, by Alva
Woodland walks, picnic sites and children’s play areas.

Mill Trail Heritage Centre, Alva
Discover the fascinating tradition of woollen making in the ‘Wee County’ of Clackmannanshire, from the earliest days of water power to modern times.

Village Glass, Bridge of Allan
See intricate glassware, handcrafted on the premises by skilled glass blowers.

Bridge of Allan Brewery
Visit one of Scotland’s most successful micro-breweries and taste the finest in real ales.

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