Stirling Castle, Stirling : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Stirling Castle has long been an iconic part of Scottish history. Located in the heart of the city of Stirling on the site of an extinct volcano, this castle was the home of many famous Scottish monarchs and the site of some of the most important and bloody battles of the Scottish Wars of Independence. A must-visit for any history lover, the castle offers fascinating glimpses into the past, plus excellent attractions and guided tours. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there is plenty to see and do at Stirling Castle. Read on to find out more about this important and beautiful Scottish landmark and the interesting facts, information, and travel guides available.

Interesting Facts About Stirling Castle, Stirling

, Scotland

1. The castle is located at the strategic meeting point of the Firth of Forth and the River Forth, which was its main reason for being known as one of the most formidable defensive sites in Scotland.

2. Stirling Castle has been referred to as “the Key to the Kingdom” of Scotland because of its strategic positioning. As a result, the castle is one of the most historically significant sites in Scotland.

3. The chapel of St. Mary the Virgin is located within the castle. It was built for Queen Margaret, the wife of King James IV of Scotland, and has served as the royal chapel and burial place since 1496.

4. Stirling Castle is also home to the Stirling Heads, a series of intricately carved oak ceilings that were commissioned to decorate the palace chambers.

5. The castle is also home to some of Scotland’s oldest artillery, the Mons Meg. Built in the mid-15th century, this huge bombard was once capable of firing stone cannon balls up to two miles.

6. Stirling Castle also features the Queen’s Nursery, the earliest surviving interior wall mural in Britain, painted in 1513.

7. Stirling Castle is also one of the best preserved Renaissance palaces in Europe, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.

8. The castle is also home to the Royal Company of Archers, a private army created by Royal Charter in 1676 that traditionally stands guard at Stirling Castle.

9. The castle also includes a Victorian-era military barracks, which were constructed in the 19th century to house British troops during the Crimean War.

10. Stirling Castle is also the site of one of the best known battles in Scottish history, the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297.

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History & Information About Stirling Castle, Stirling

, Scotland

Stirling Castle is a historical fortress located in the city of Stirling, Scotland. It has been an important strategic point throughout the kingdoms of Scotland and is the location of some of the greatest military sieges in British history.

The castle sits upon a large crag of volcanic basalt known as the Castle Rock, some 200 feet above the plain. It is now owned and maintained by Historic Environment Scotland.

The castle was first established in the mid-12th century, when King Alexander I of Scotland founded the fortress to take advantage of its defensive position. The royal castles of Stirling, Edinburgh, and Dumbarton were seen as the three most important castles in Scotland.

Throughout history, the castle was the site of several important battles between the Scots and the English, most notably the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297 and the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Both battles were pivotal in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

Stirling Castle also served as a royal residence for many Scots Kings and Queens, including Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary had her coronation in the palace at Stirling in 1543.

Today, visitors to Stirling Castle can explore the royal palace, the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal, the Palace Vaults, the Renaissance Garden, and the King’s Knot. Special events and educational tours are available.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Stirling Castle, Stirling

, Scotland

Welcome to Stirling Castle, one of the most impressive castles in Scotland and a major draw for visitors to Stirling. Located atop an extinct volcano, it has stood at the gateway to the Highlands for centuries and offers a fascinating journey through Scotland’s history.

Getting there:

Stirling Castle is easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of free parking just outside the gates. You can also take a train from either Edinburgh or Glasgow to Stirling station, located a couple of minutes’ walk from the castle.

Tours:

The Visitor Centre at Stirling Castle organises castle tours regularly, which are the perfect way to learn more about the history of the castle, including its function in both the Wars of Independence and the Jacobite uprisings. You can also take part in one of the evening tours, which explore some of the more eerie aspects of castle life and uncover its mysterious secrets.

Things to See:

Stirling Castle is full of things to see. You can explore the Great Hall, where King James V of Scotland held court, admire the roofed Palace, and of course, gaze upon the Crown Jewels which are kept in the castle’s King’s Orchard. There is also a historic funeral of a young woman, known as Mary of Guise, which you can view in the King’s Old Building. Additionally, you can take a walk along the battlements and admire the views of the countryside and the grandeur of the castle itself.

Apart from the castle’s attractions, there are also various events and activities which take place during the year. These include falconry displays, re-enactments, and jousting tournaments. For something a little more relaxed, you can take a stroll in Stirling’s gardens or take a boat ride on the River Forth.

Eating:

There are plenty of great places to eat in the Stirling area. For a traditional Scottish meal, head to The Kitchen at The Tower Guest House. This is a family-run restaurant which serves excellent traditional dishes. For an exquisite afternoon tea experience, visit The Garden Room at the Stirling Highland Hotel. If you are looking for something more casual, there are many cafes and restaurants around Stirling which offer delicious meals.

Stirling Castle is a must-see destination, and you’ll be sure to leave with unforgettable memories. Whether you are here for a day, a weekend, or longer, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring everything this historic and majestic castle has to offer.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Stirling Castle, Stirling

Q1: Where is Stirling Castle located?
A1: Stirling Castle is located in Scotland, at the top of Castle Hill in the city of Stirling.

Q2: How old is Stirling Castle?
A2: Stirling Castle is over 900 years old, having been established in the 12th century.

Q3: What kind of events take place at Stirling Castle?
A3: Events at Stirling Castle include concerts, ghost tours, outdoor theatre performances, and historical re-enactments.

Q4: Does Stirling Castle offer guided tours?
A4: Yes, Stirling Castle offers both audio and live guided tours throughout the year.

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