Stirling: The Centre of scottish history
Stirling, a name believed to originate from a Scots term meaning ‘struggle’ or ‘strife’. Visit the site of the 1314 Battle of Bannockburn, Scotland’s fight for independence. Learn the spectacular legend of William Wallace, arguably the most celebrated figure within Scottish culture. End your day with a tour of the outstanding Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s finest examples of medieval architecture.
What to expect: Historical information driven tour, interactive family-friendly displays at Bannockburn, 246 steps at Wallace monument – for those with suitable fitness.
Please hover over each image for more information.
8.30am
Edinburgh Pickup
1 hour → 9.30am
Bannockburn
BANNOCKBURN BRUCE STATUE © National Trust for Scotland
Site of the Battle of Bannockburn, a statue of King Robert the Bruce now proudly stands tall in its place. The visitor centre gives patrons a truly engaging and immersive experience of the Battle of Bannockburn.
BANNOCKBURN BATTLE ROOM © National Trust for Scotland
Within Bannockburn visitor centre, step back in time as you lead your army at the digitally recreated Battle of Bannockburn in a truly unique experience within the 3D battle room.
BANNOCKBURN CHARACTER STATIONS © National Trust for Scotland
Meet the people who fought on both sides of the conflict, learn their stories and their role in the Battle of Bannockburn.
2.5 Hours → 12pm
Wallace Monument – Lunch Break
NATIONAL WALLACE MONUMENT ©
A monument commemorating Sir William Wallace, one of Scotland’s leading voices in the peasant revolts – also known as the Scottish Wars of Independence. The Wallace monument contains masses of information of the 13th century hero and the associated battles he fought in. Most significantly, visitors can view the very sword used by William Wallace, which stands at an astounding 1.68m high (5’6”)!
WILLIAM WALLACE STATUE © National Wallace Monument
William Wallace, revered to this day as one of Scotland’s finest warriors and a national hero to many. Wallace led the first war of Scottish Independence and is most known for his victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297.
HALL OF ARMS © National Wallace Monument
While visiting the Wallace Monument, take time to sit back and watch the true story of William Wallace in an immersive animation seen within the Hall of Arms.
NATIONAL WALLACE MONUMENT ©
A striking view of the Victorian apex of the Wallace Monument overlooking the historic city of Stirling and the meandering river Forth.
3 Hours → 3pm
Stirling Castle
STIRLING CASTLE © Crown Copyright Historic Environment Scotland
Stirling Castle has a long and extensive history as one of the primary seats of the Scottish monarchy. Walk in the steps of royalty as you explore the authentically refurnished Royal Palace, stroll through the Queen Anne gardens and admire the stunningly reproduced Stirling Tapestries.
STIRLING CASTLE © Crown Copyright Historic Environment Scotland
Stirling Castle has a long and extensive history as one of the primary seats of the Scottish monarchy. Walk in the steps of royalty as you explore the authentically refurnished Royal Palace, stroll through the Queen Anne gardens and admire the stunningly reproduced Stirling Tapestries.
3 Hours → 6pm
Travel back to Edinburgh