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Offered languages
- English
- English
Stirling’s Old Town grew around Stirling Castle, the mighty fortress that’s perched majestically atop an extinct volcano. On this self-guided audio tour of the Old Town, I’ll tell you how it became a flashpoint in Scotland’s long struggle for independence and religious freedom. The tour starts at the statue of Robert the Bruce on the castle esplanade, with its panoramic views over the meandering River Forth. You’ll wind your way through the historic Old Town, passing Renaissance townhouses like Argyll’s Lodging, and medieval churches which tell the story of a town that grew around its mighty fortress. As you stroll you’ll learn about the lives of wealthy merchants like John Cowane, visit the old Tolbooth where rebels were executed, and see how the town evolved through the centuries. The tour ends at the Golden Lion Hotel, where Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns once carved controversial verses on a window pane.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
This tour starts at Statue of Robert the Bruce. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Tour ends at The Golden Lion Hotel.
Itinerary
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Stirling Castle (Pass by)
Marvel at this magnificent fortress perched atop an extinct volcanic crag, dominating the landscape for miles around. Discover why this strategic stronghold was called "the brooch that holds Scotland together" and shaped centuries of Scottish history.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Begin your journey at this striking bronze statue on the castle esplanade, depicting Scotland's legendary warrior king. Enjoy panoramic views across the meandering River Forth and the battlefield where Bruce secured Scotland's independence.
Admission ticket free -
Church of the Holy Rude (Pass by)
Step inside this medieval church where the infant King James VI was crowned in Scotland's shortest royal coronation ceremony. Experience the atmosphere of this active congregation that has held services continuously since 1129.
Admission ticket free -
Mar's Wark (Pass by)
Admire the ornate Renaissance facade of this ruined townhouse, built in 1570 by the Earl of Mar, regent to the young King James VI. Learn how this once-magnificent palace reflects the wealth and ambition of Scotland's most powerful nobles.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass this stunning 17th-century Renaissance mansion, considered Scotland's finest surviving townhouse of its era. Explore how this aristocratic residence showcases the lifestyle of Scotland's nobility during the reign of King Charles I.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Walk around this historic market cross where royal proclamations were announced and dishonest merchants faced public punishment. Discover how this spot served as the heart of Stirling's commercial and civic life for centuries.
Admission ticket free -
The Tolbooth (Pass by)
Marvel at this imposing 1705 building that served as the town's courthouse and jail for two centuries. Learn about the religious rebels and criminals who were tried, imprisoned, and sometimes executed within these walls.
Admission ticket free -
Stirling Old Town Jail (Pass by)
Explore this Victorian prison that tells the story of 19th-century criminal justice and prison reform. Experience what life was like for inmates through the jail's preserved cells and interactive exhibits.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pause at this solemn monument commemorating the Presbyterian Covenanters who died for their religious beliefs in the 17th century. Discover the story of Scotland's bitter religious conflicts and the price paid for freedom of worship.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Admire this statue honouring Scotland's famous outlaw and folk hero, who became a symbol of Highland resistance. Learn how this 18th-century cattle rustler and fighter was transformed into a romantic legend.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass this elegant building that once served as the town's high school before its conversion into a luxury hotel. Discover the stories of notable former pupils who walked these halls during its educational era.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
End your tour at this historic coaching inn where Scotland's national poet Robert Burns once stayed and carved controversial verses on a window pane. Experience the atmosphere of an 18th-century tavern where literary legends were made.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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