Explore
2016 /2017
STIRLING & FORTH VALLEY
Including Dunblane, Bridge of Allan, Falkirk and Trossachs Trail
Official
VISITOR GUIDE
ATTRACTIONS STIRLING CITY PASS
The National Wallace Monument
WHERE TO EAT
Stirling’s famous landmark commemorates the life of Sir William Wallace and overlooks the scene of his greatest victory, at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, in 1297. The 220 foot Monument offers panoramic views from The Crown across Stirling, The Trossachs, Forth Valley and beyond. Celebrate the Year of Innovation, Architecture & Design 2016 by uncovering some of the facts and figures behind the building of J. T. Rochead’s Victorian masterpiece.
AREA MAPS #ScotSpirit
For more info visit destinationstirling.com
Stirling’s STORY
Welcome Founded as a Royal Burgh in 1124, Stirling offers a fascinating journey back in time for anyone with even a passing interest in Scottish history and heritage. Today, Stirling is a vibrant city, steeped in historic atmosphere yet offering a host of modern day attractions, facilities and events. A popular international university city, you’ll find plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants and a wide range of shopping, together with a fineselection of accommodation. Easily accessible by road and rail Stirling is on the doorstep of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. As well as a string of local towns and villages you’ll also be within easy reach of Edinburgh, Glasgow, St. Andrews and much of the spectacular Scottish Highlands.
Contents 3 Top Attractions 4 Accommodation Useful Info 5 Food & Drink 6 Stirling Map 8 Shopping 9 What’s On 10 Bridge of Allan & Dunblane 11 Falkirk 12 Callander & the Trossachs
Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park
Set in 120 acres of beautiful woodland only 8 minutes from Stirling on the A84, there is something here to suit all ages. Get up close to exotic animals, watch the sea lion presentations and the bird of prey demonstrations, take a boat trip around Chimp Island, listen to the daily Keeper Talks, amble around Pets Farm, Lemur Land and Bug Land and the kids will love the adventure playground with the new fort. There are restaurant and snack bar facilities and also plenty of picnic and BBQ spots. Check the website for more information and how to plan your visit. Open daily 19 Mar – 30 Oct 2016, 10am – 5.30pm, last admission 4.30pm blairdrummond.com
Doune Castle
Built amid the lovely Stirlingshire countryside the castle was the home of Regent Albany, Scotland’s uncrowned king. It has also been used a film location for Monty Python & The Holy Grail, Game of Thrones and Outlander. Open: All Year Summer: 9.30am-5.30pm Winter: 10am-4pm Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40 Tel: 01786 841 742
Guided Tours & Ghost Walks Stirling Ghost Walk Fear, Fun and Frights for all the Family with Stirling tales from beyond the grave. stirlingghostwalk.com Stirling Walking Tours Guided tours of the old town with comedy, drama and storytelling by costumed local guides. stirlingwalkingtours.com
Stirling City Pass See more and save more with the Stirling City Pass. This ticket offers discounted entry to Stirling’s top attractions for one discounted price and includes some excellent extras including fast track entry, free audio tours and over £50 in local discounts and offers. Available online at destinationstirling.com and at the Stirling Visitor Information Centre (at the Old Town Jail)
Hop-on Hop-off City Bus
See all the sights and hop between Stirling’s top attractions using the Stirling Hop-on Hop-off bus this summer. The service runs daily with more frequent stops at Stirling Castle and the train station. Full timetable at destinationstirling.com
Stirling Castle
One of Scotland’s greatest castles, Stirling is more spectacular than ever with its magnificent renaissance palace where visitors can meet costumed characters from the royal court, get hands on with history in the vaults and enjoy epic views of the surrounding countryside. Admission: Adult £14.50, Child £8.70 concession £11.60 Open: All year 7 days a week 25 Mar-30 Sept 9.30am-6pm, 1 Oct-31 Mar 9.30am-5pm stirlingcastle.gov.uk
The Battle Of Bannockburn
Prepare for battle at this brand new thrilling experience. With cutting edge 3D technology, you can experience medieval combat like never before and discover more about this crucial event in Scottish history. Open daily all year Exhibition: see web site. Book online in advance at battleofbannockburn.com
Stirling Smith Art Gallery And Museum FREE
You haven’t seen Stirling till you’ve seen the Smith – it’s the soul of Stirling. Home to the world’s oldest football and curling stone. Social and art history of Stirling. Café, shop, gardens, picnic area. Open Tues - Sat 10.30 – 5pm, Sun 2-5pm Free admission and parking smithartgalleryandmuseum.co.uk
The Argyll And Sutherland Highlanders Museum
Explore the history of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders from the raising of the Regiment in 1794 till the present day. Research facilities, shop and corporate events. Entry is free with paid admission to Stirling Castle argylls.co.uk
Dunblane Cathedral FREE
One of Scotland’s finest medieval churches. The lower part of the tower is Romanesque but most of the building was built in the 1200 and extensively restored in the 1800s. Open: All year Summer 9.30am-5.30pm winter: 10am-4pm (open Sun from 2pm to facilitate church services) Tel: 01786 823 388 dunblanecathedral.org.uk
Argyll’s Lodging
The most complete townhouse of its kind, its interior has been reconstructed to look as it may have done when Archibald Campbell, 9th Earl of Argyll lived here. Open: Open Daily all year from 1pm-4pm. Admission with Stirling Castle Ticket only stirlingcastle.gov.uk/argyllslodging
See more & save more with
Stirling City Pass
Look for participating attractions using this symbol ( )
TOP
Attractions
The National Wallace Monument Built to celebrate Scotland’s national hero, Sir William Wallace. Climb the 246 steps to the top for magnificent views across Stirling to the Ochil Hills. Inside, learn how The Battle of Stirling Bridge was fought and won and discover the story of Wallace’s life. Open daily all year nationalwallacemonument.com
Stirling Old Town Jail
Daily performance tours where you can hear the histories of our places of punishment – and the bloody, bizarre and sometimes baffling tales of the Burgh’s heroes and villains including the notorious ‘Happy Hangman’, Jock Rankin. You can also take in the spectacular views from the Old Town Jail observation tower. Open June to Sept 10.15am - 4.15pm daily destinationstirling.com
The Church Of The Holy Rude FREE One of the finest medieval buildings in Scotland, its construction dating back to the early 15th century. James VI was crowned here in 1567. The stained glass windows are among the best in Scotland while the Dreaper & Rushworth organ is one of the finest in the UK. holyrude.org Daily from 1 May till 1 Oct. Sun services Jan - June at 11.30am, July - Dec at 10am.
Alloa Tower
Fully restored and furnished, and containing a superb collection of family portraits, this ancestral home of the Earls of Mar is one of Scotland’s largest surviving medieval towers. Original dungeon and roofbeams contrast with the elegant Italianate staircase, added in the 18th century. Open 18 Ma - 24 Oct, see website for opening times. nts.org.uk/AlloaTower
The Royal Burgh Of Culross
Relive the domestic life of the 16th and 17th centuries amid the old buildings and cobbled streets. Explore the beautiful palace and garden, as featured in TV show Outlander. 25 Mar - 31 Oct, See website for opening times. nts.org.uk
The Pineapple
Built in 1761 and 14m (45ft) high with the realistic effect of leaves & fruit produced by the cantilever masonry. Four stone vases disguise the chimneys. Greenhouses extend east and west from the central portico. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the former curling and dipping pond and surrounding woodland. Open 9.30am - sunset, daily nts.org.uk
STAY
Another Day Holiday Inn Express Stirling
Located next to the Forthside’s Sports Village, close to The Peak Leisure Centre, Stirling Albion Football Club, cinema, shops, restaurants & Stirling’s many visitor attractions. Inclusive breakfast with hot items, free parking, free Wi-Fi throughout. Air conditioning in all bedrooms and bedroom refurbishment completed in December 2015 08719021628 expressstirling.co.uk
Willy Wallace Hostel
The Willy Wallace is already establishing a reputation as one of Scotland’s best hostels. Decor is attractive, colourful and unique. Beds are extremely comfortable. Free WiFi, Internet use and Tea/Coffee to all residents - large comfortable sitting room and great kitchen. Just 1 minute walk from the train station. 77 Murray Pl. Stirling +44(0)1786446773 willywallacehostel.com
SYHA Hostel
Situated in the Old Town and historic quarter of Stirling, our popular youth hostel is a great base to explore the many attractions in an around the area. The popular Blair Drummond Safari Park is easily accessible by car, as well as the Wallace Monument, Ochil Hills, Dollar Glen, Castle Campbell and Bridge of Allan. The hostel offers a mix of dorm and private rooms so is ideal for both solo travellers and families. +44 (0) 1786 473442 syha.org.uk
SEE MORE
See all our accommodation at destinationstirling.com
Useful INFO Getting Around Town
There are regular bus services to and from the local towns and villages in the Stirling area. Plan your journey at citylink.co.uk or firstgroup.co.uk There are two park and ride service in Stirling. The Castleview Circular is a great way to get around the city centre and up to the Old Town area. This service runs every 12 minutes from 7.30am to 6.30pm. Find out more at stirling.gov.uk Next Bike hire stations available throughout Stirling` For local cycle routes visit stirlingcyclehub.org
Accessibility
In spite of steep streets and old buildings, Stirling is an increasingly accessible city. Both our rail and bus station also have disabled access. Call VisitScotland on +44(0)845 22 55 121 for a free copy of Accessible Scotland which lists disabled-friendly accommodation and visitor attractions. For more local visitor information go to visitscottishheartlands.com and destinationstirling.com for national tourism information head to visitscotland.com.
Download the Stirling Food & Drink App for great meals out at your fingertips!
Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy
A Taste Of Our NIGHTLIFE Allanwater Brewhouse
Brewing & pouring since ’96 the multi award winning microbrewery and real ale Pub greets everyone, locals or tourists alike, with a warm welcoming smile. They pride themselves not only in great beer, informative tours, live acoustic music but, more than anything else, truly outstanding Scottish hospitality. Open every day Tel: 01786 834555 Bridge of Allan FK9 4NY See more on page 10 bridgeofallan.co.uk
A real traditional Scottish public house located within Stirling centre. With regular live music, theme nights and quizzes. As an independent pub, you’ll always have a warm welcome. Dogs welcome. Open Every Day Tel: 01786 472194 nickytams.com
Curly Coo Bar
An Award Winning Whisky Bar which opened in Stirling in December 2013. The collection of Malt Whisky stands at approximately 150 bottles, and you’re sure to find a dram that suits you here. It is also possible to have a wee tour of Scotland, with a taste of different drams from across the regions. A cosy wee traditional bar with a great selection of other drinks too. Craft kegs from local Brewers Harviestoun and William Brothers, Scottish Gins, Cider and local bottled beers with a varied selection of soft drinks. Look forward to seeing you… Open Every Day 51 Barnton Street, Stirling, FK8 1HH Tel: 01786 447191
The Golden Crown
With an excellent reputation for its Chinese and Cantonese cuisine. Operated by the same family for 40 years, it’s Stirling’s original Chinese Restaurant, offering over 160 dishes from their fabulous menu. Relax in their warm and friendly restaurant, visit the take-away or simply telephone for home deliveries. Open daily 12noon - 2pm and 5pm - 10pm (11pm Fri/Sat). 23-25 Barnton St, Stirling. Tel: 01786 473984 or 01786 446336
Mediterranea
Simple, fresh food and a fantastic choice of wines. A wide selection of Eastern Mediterranean and Greek meze/tapas style dishes. Regular live entertainment! Mon - Open Jam Sessions. Salsa and DJ nights 4 Viewfield Place, Stirling, FK8 1NQ Tel: 01786 478 534 mediterranearestaurant.com
Namaste World Buffet
The newly opened Namaste World Buffet on Dunbarton Road, in the heart of Stirling offers a wide range of multi cuisine - Indian, Nepalese, Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Thai or Italian food. This is a live cooking restaurant has something for everyone. 17-19 Dumbarton Road, Stirling FK8 2LQ Tel: 01786 472111
Darnley’s Coffee House
Somewhere in Stirling’s Top Of The Town, a soup pot boils. This historic building houses a café serving tea and coffee, lunches, and the best homemade soup in town! Open Mon-Sat 11am-4pm; Sun 12pm-4pm 18 Bow Street, FK8 1BS Tel: 01786 474468
Pizza Express Stirling
See all our top restaurants at tripadvisor.com
Savour STIRLING
Friars Wynd
A newly renovated Victorian building right in Stirling City Centre, packed with character and gives a feel of Stirling’s history. Our motto is fresh and local so our Scottish themed menu uses local produce and our drinks shelves are stocked with a selection of Scottish Whisky’s, Beers and Gin’s. 17 Friars Street, Stirling, FK8 1HA friarswynd.co.uk
The Fat Cyclist
Looking for home-baked goodies in a comfy setting with friendly staff? You’ve found it! The fat cyclist cafe is for everybody who loves cake... and more! Open: Mon-Wed 9am - 5pm; Thurs-Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun 10am- 5pm 3 Friars St, Stirling FK8 1HA Tel: 01786 440078
Maharja Restaurant
We take great care in producing distinctive traditional curries related to Northern India. A number of curries that have never been cooked in Stirling before. Unique signature dishes along with popular British curries. Open Mon-Fri 12 to 2.30pm and 5 to 10.30pm; Sat 12pm-3pm & 5-10.30pm; Sun 1pm-3pm; 5-10.30pm 39 King Street, FK8 1DN Tel: 01786 470728 MaharajaStirling.com
Kilted Kangaroo
1,3&5 Thistles Centre, Murray Place, Stirling, FK8 2BX.
Australian Bar & Grill House. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a great selection of drinks from around the world, some amazing entertainment or Stirling’s biggest Beer Garden there is something for everyone! Mon Musical Bingo; Tue Open Mic; Wed Quiz; Thu Karaoke. Party Bar open until 2am Fri & Sat! OPEN 7 DAYS. 9 Upper Craigs, Stirling (under the arch). Tel: 01786 451130 kiltedkangaroo.com
Jimmy Chungs
Nawab Mughlai Indian
Next to The Thistles Centre in Stirling, we are an Italian Restaurant providing exceptional quality Pizza, Pasta, Salad and Desserts and our famous dough balls of course!! Great for all the family. Starter, Main course and a soft drink for £9.95 from a selected menu with this advert or mention Destination Stirling. Contact us on 01786 451844 or search Pizza Express reservations to book a table.
Authentic Chinese Cuisine presented in buffet style with the freshest ingredients, a beautiful selection of starters and main courses, followed by a selection of fresh desserts - if you have any room left! Open daily. 4 Friars Street, Stirling. FK8 1HA Tel: 01786 469911
We invite you at Nawb to experience the authentic Mughali cusine. We provide a unique opportunity for a memorable visit: excellent food and comfort! 50 Upper Craigs, FK8 2DS Stirling Tel: 01786 470999
For more info visit destinationstirling.com
Map Key
Beheading Stone
Attraction Stirling Castle
Hotel/Hostel
The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders Museum
Food Served Pubs Shopping Stirling Walking Tours/Ghostwalk
Stirling Bagpipes The Church Of The Holy Rude
Darnley’s Coffee House
Stirling Old Town Jail SYHA Hostel
Highland Hotel
Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum
Stirling Whi
Stirling Bridge
isky Shop
Area Map
National Wallace Monument, Bridgeof Allan & University of Stirling
Petrol Station
Cambuskenneth Abbey
Mediterranea
Curly Coo
Train Station
The Golden Crown
Vue Cinema & The Engine Shed Holiday Inn Express Stirling
Willy Wallace Hostel Bus Station Friar’s Wynd
Jimmy Chungs
Fat Cyclist Cafe Nicky Tams
Pizza Express
Stirling Arcade Europa
Thistles Shopping Centre
Stirling Arcade Maharja Restaurant
Golden Lion Hotel
Thistles Shopping Centre
Town Wall
Petrol Station Kilted Kangaroo
Namaste World Buffet
Nawab Mughlai Indian
Bannockburn
WELCOME TO SHOPPING Located immediately opposite Stirling train station on Murray Place Stirling Arcade is a main thoroughfare to Stirling Castle. The centre has everything you need for an enjoyable shopping experience - a great mix of independent retailers, offering quality products and friendly personal service. With its beautifully restored Victorian architecture and period features a visit to the Arcade is an experience that transports you back in time to the golden age of shopping.
Eat • Shop • Relax
You can relax with a glass of wine whilst enjoying a freshly prepared meal at one of the quality eateries. Our shops offer the latest fashion ranges, lingerie, bridal wear, traditional and contemporary gifts, jewellery, musical instruments, vaping accessories, specialty t-shirts and collectables, baby wear and a range of other services which include Yoga classes, hair dressing, nail and beauty treatments, leisure and fitness as well as Stirling’s first Oriental supermarket. Stirling Arcade is where traditional values combine with contemporary style to provide the city’s most unique and enjoyable shopping experience. OPENING TIMES: Mon-Sat 8am: ‘til late Sun: 10am ‘til late Info@stirlingarcade.com • 01786450719
Support Independe Retailersnt In Stirling
Shopping
Stirling Bagpipes
A family run business based in Stirling’s old town. A well-known Scottish bagpipe maker specialising in manufacturing and refurbishing Great Highland Bagpipes, Scottish Smallpipes and Border Pipes including a large collection of Antique bagpipes. A wide range of piping/drumming accessories, bagpipe tune books, tutor books and CD’s. One-stop shop for pipe bands and pipers. 8 Broad Street FK8 1EF Tel: 01786 448886 stirlingbagpipes.com
FOR ALL
Heart of Glass
Heart of Glass has a unique range of designer glassware and jewellery including bespoke handmade glass, for you and your home. We have an extensive range of gifts suitable for any occasion, lots of quirky gifts for any budget. Open Mon-Sat:10:00 - 17:00 14 Henderson Street, FK9 4HT, Bridge of Allan Tel: 01786 832137
Europa Music
Stirling Whisky Shop
Stirling’s largest stockist of Scotch Whisky, with 100 or more tasting bottles and knowledgeable staff who will find the perfect dram for you. Stirling Whisky Shop is a must on your visit. Open Daily Mon-Sat 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-4pm 29 Spittal St Stirling, FK8 1DU Tel: 01786 449152
“Wor th a visit to Stirling itself ’” -The List.
Floor to ceiling music of all types; Scottish Folk, Rock, Pop, Punk, Jazz, Classical, Blues, Country etc. New and used Vinyl Records/CD’s and DVD’s to buy or exchange. The largest browsable vinyl record collection in Scotland. Also T-shirts, books and memorabilia. OPEN 7 days. 10 Friars St, Stirling. Tel: 01786 448623 Facebook: europamusic
Sterling Mills Outlet Village
Have a look around and discover what makes Sterling Mills a unique shopping destination. You’ll find us at the foot of the stunning Ochil Hills, not far from Stirling, and an easy car ride from most of central Scotland. With FREE parking, a kids play park and loads of family events taking place throughout the year, shopping at Sterling Mills is a breath of fresh air. Find famous brands you love for less, M&S Outlet, Nike Factory Store, Adidas/ Reebok, GAP Outlet, Home Bargains, Thorntons, Pavers Shoes, Charles Clinkard, Trespass, Mountain Warehouse and many more! Open 7 days, 10am - 6pm Devon Vale, Tillicoultry FK13 6HQ Tel: 01259 752 100 sterlingmills.com
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The Thistles is Stirling’s central shopping destination, with over 80 stores under one roof in the heart of the city, there really is something to make everyone want to shop.
The Thistles makes shopping what it should be. Whether you are looking for a new outfit, the perfect present, or simply want to take time out to meet up with friends and shop in the city, there is something for everyone here in the centre of Stirling. We’ve got over 80 high street names including, Primark, M&S and Pandora as well as fashion labels including Topshop, River Island, Jack Jones and Superdry.
With safe and secure car parking, a variety of restaurants and cafes including Pizza Express, Costa and more. As well as late night shopping on Thursday until 8pm and parking for only £2 all day on Sunday’s why not make the most of shopping in Stirling at The Thistles. For more information on The Thistles, Stirling’s biggest shopping destination please check out our website: thethistles.com
Debenhams in the centre also offer big name beauty with the likes of Clinique, Chanel, Dior and Estee Lauder.
ON April
3 9 24
May
STIRLING 2016
Crit on the Campus cycle race Stirling Farmers Market Strathendrick Rotary Classic Car Tour
6 - 16 Off the page book festival 7 Spirit of Stirling Whisky Festival 7 - 8 National Wallace Monument: Walk with Wallace 8 Scribblers Picnic 14 Stirling Farmers Market 14 - 15 In Vogue. Renaissance Fashion Show 15 Stirling & District Classic Car Rally 26 - 29 Doune and Dunblane Fling 27 - 29 Strathyre Music Festival 28 Drymen Show 28 - 29 Mhor Festival
June
11 - 19 11 18 18 19 25 26
July
Forth Valley Art Beat Stirling Farmers Market Doune Gala Day Battle of the Braes Crit Under the Castle Stirling Armed Forces Day Scottish Jaguar Day
2 Doune & Dunblane Agricultural Show 9 Stirling Farmers Market 16 - 31 Callander & Trossachs Summerfest 23 Lochearnhead, Balquhidder & Strathyre Highland Games 23 3.2.1. Skiddadle Summer
August
3 Scotland’s National Hero 3 Killin Highland Games 7 Bridge of Allan Highland Games 10 TOP Festival 13 Stirling Farmers Market 20 Stirling Highland Games 19 - 21 Doune the Rabbit Hole 26 - 11 Sept Trossachs Beer Festival 28 Callander River Festival
September
1 - 30 Festival Of Architecture 10 Stirling Farmers Market 10 - 11 Door Open Days 9 - 11 The Shindig 9 - 11 Bloody Scotland Crimewriting Festival 30 - 2 Oct Callander Jazz & Blues Festival
the
thistles the to castle stirling
Thistles to the Castle: Stirling will celebrate the Festival of Architecture throughout September, visit foa2016.com for programme themes and highlights.
October
30 Sept - 2 Callander Jazz & Blues Festival 8 Stirling Farmers Market 31 A Conjuration of Spirits
November
5 5 12 12 26 26 - 27 26 - 27 26 - 27
Killearn fireworks Bridge of Allan fireworks Stirling Farmers Market Craft Fair Stirling Farmers Market Doune Castle free entry weekend National Wallace Monument free entry weekend Stirling Castle free entry
10 17 31
Stirling Farmers Market Stirling Farmers Market Stirling’s Hogmanay
December
For more info visit destinationstirling.com
Just a short distance from the city of Stirling, is a beautiful little town called Bridge of Allan, everywhere you look there are traces of an immensely popular historical Victorian spa town. Today, you can still see the same buildings and landmarks that a young Robert Louis Stevenson was inspired by
“Visit Bridge of Allan for a unique blend of the old and the new.”
when he and this family visited to ‘take the waters’ in the mid 1800’s. It’s a small, vibrant town that offers a unique blend of history and modern living. We boast a wealth of eateries, bars and cafes, independent boutiques, gift shops and galleries, as well as a choice of grand accommodation. With the two opposite ends of Henderson Street occupied by the oldest retailers, each founded in 1851 and 1902, it’s a street packed with interest, unique charm and heritage.
For the adventurous, one of our local walks will take you to Stevenson’s’ cave, said to be the inspiration behind Treasure Island, plus on an easy amble through Bridge of Allan, you will see black plaques on the sides of some of our buildings giving you some interesting facts about our history.
Visit the local Brewery! We pride ourselves not only in great beer, informative tours, live acoustic music but, more than anything else, truly outstanding Scottish hospitality. We see it as our privilege to give each and every one of our valued guests a unique and unforgettable experience. Nestled in the Victorian spa town of Bridge of Allan, our highly trained team welcome you to join us by our log burning fire and enjoy a pint and the friendly atmosphere Children and Dogs welcomed. Open every day from NOON. Sun-Thurs noon - 11pm/ Fri & Sat noon - midnight. Queens Lane, Bridge of Allan FK9 4NY 01786 834555 bridgeofallan.co.uk
In an enviable location in beautiful central Scotland, Falkirk is bursting with things to see and do all year round. The town is practically on Stirling’s doorstep, so if you’re enjoying the sights of Stirling this year make sure Falkirk is also on your itinerary. This hidden gem boasts some of Scotland’s most iconic attractions including the world’s largest equine sculptures, The Kelpies. Designed as a monument to the horse power used in Scotland throughout its history, the striking 30m horse head sculptures form the centrepiece of Helix Park; vibrant new parkland complete with adventure play-park, splash play fountains, lagoon and miles of cycle paths. A visitor centre has also recently opened giving visitors a unique insight into the history of these magnificent sculptures.
FIND YOURSELF
In Falkirk UNESCO site the Antonine Wall, the 4 star baronial Callendar House which dates back six hundred years and is amazingly well preserved with an authentic working Georgian Kitchen, the FAW Kirk Graveyard with important memorials from the time of William Wallace and the Battle of Falkirk. Not to mention The Steeple, Dunmore Pineapple, Blackness Castle and Kinneil House and Museum with excellent examples of renaissance art. If you’re looking to entertain the kids, then a wide range of family activities will keep the little ones amused during your visit. The Milk Barn is Falkirk’s artisan ice cream parlour, making some of the best ice cream in Scotland using milk from their very own herd of cows each day.
Elsewhere, Falkirk also boasts the world’s only rotating boat lift and an engineering masterpiece, The Falkirk Wheel. This mechanical marvel connects the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals, lifting boats by a height of 35 metres to bridge the gap that was originally linked by a flight of 11 locks. Visitors can get the full experience by If it’s adventure you’re after, then taking one of the special 50 minute Wellsfield Farm Activity Centre boasts boat trips, and then enjoy a variety of on-site activities such as a Segway Safari, the water play park, home baking in the visitor centre, walks along the canals or experience a year-round calendar of events and activities at this unique attraction. The Falkirk area is also steeped in history, heritage and culture with an array of fascinating places to visit including some of the best sections of World Heritage
a children’s farm adventure park and play area, archery lessons, outdoor assault course and wildlife trails. Or if the weather is proving challenging in true Scottish style, there is plenty to do indoors including the 5-star indoor go-karting Xtreme Karting, or a visit to Scotland’s oldest purpose built cinema, The Hippodrome. If you simply want to take in some of the great outdoors, then the area boasts some of the country’s most picturesque parklands and nature trails including a large section of the John Muir Way, which stretches 134 miles across Scotland’s heartland and is great for walkers and cyclists
To find out more about the Falkirk area go to visitfalkirk.com
Whether it’s a day trip, weekend or longer stay, you really want to make sure Falkirk is featured in your plans this year.
Area Map
TROSSACHS TRAIL
DEANSTON DISTILLERY
Callander & The Trossachs Trail Callander is an attractive town on the River Teith, near Stirling, often described as the gateway to the Highlands. It’s a popular base for tourists exploring the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and ‘Rob Roy Country’, or for a stopping off place on their way up into the Highlands. Callander and the Trossachs have something for everyone: cycling, walking, climbing, fishing, open-water swimming and enjoyable shopping. For those who prefer their entertainment indoors a well-equipped sports centre is on hand, many local venues offer live entertainment and there are loads of great pubs, restaurants and cafes. If you follow the circular Trossachs Trail you can witness spectacular and dramatic scenery and an abundance of Scottish wildlife, especially as you travel through The Great Trossachs Forest. And dotted along the trail are some of Scotland’s finest attractions, including Inchmahome Priory on the Lake of Menteith, the Steamship Sir Walter Scott, Doune Castle, Deanston Distillery and the Blair Drummond Safari Park.
Find out more about the Trossachs Trail at: destinationstirling.com Trossachs & events in Callander at: incallander.co.uk