Stirling was awarded city status in 2002 as part of the Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee celebrations. I lived in the Stirling area for 18 years. I loved living there as I had the benefits of a large town/small city yet you could be in the countryside in a few minutes.

Stirling sits in the centre of Scotland, roughly equidistant between Edinburgh to the east and Glasgow to the west. Stirling offers the visitor the opportunity to experience a unique blend of well-preserved history and culture within an area of outstanding natural beauty. I think it’s an ideal short break or touring location. Stirling is well served by rail and you can reach Edinburgh, Glasgow or Perth in less than one hour. If you want to explore the surrounding countryside it’s best to have a car.

Stirling is probably best know for its castle. I really like the graveyards just down from the castle. My favourite walk in Stirling is called the Back Walk, a circular walk from the city centre to the castle. The Old Town Jail is en route to the castle.

Stirling Castle

The Wallace Monument honours William Wallace who won the battle of Stirling Bridge against the English in 1297. The monument became very popular after Mel Gibson (sporting a very dodgy Scottish accent) portrayed the hero in the film “Braveheart”. The monument car park had to be extended to cope with the deluge of visitors. Another famous Scottish victory is commemorated at the site of the Battle of Bannockburn.

If you feel like some retail therpy the Thistles Centre has over 90 shops in a bright, modern covered mall. There are plenty of restaurants in Stirling. I’d recommend Mr Singh’s Indian Brasserie, 16 – 18 Barnton Street, tel 01786 464019, it has great buffets. The River House restaurant, tel 01786 465577, sits by a small lake on the outskirts of Stirling. I have eaten here several times and really enjoyed the food and the setting of the restaurant. They offer a fixed price lunch and early evening dinner.

So if you’re looking for somewhere different for a UK short break or a base from which to visit central Scotland, Stirling is a hot contender.

This post was featured in the Carnival of Travel Guide no 6 on 27 January 2008 and The Carnival of Cities on 28 January 2008.