ssc, Author at Stirling Self Catering

Our top five family days out from Stirling

by ssc | Feb 9, 2017 | Blog

The days are long, and the landscape is beautiful. Round up the kids, and head outside with our top five family days out near Stirling.

Family fun at Briarlands Farm

Boarding at Boness and Kinneil Railway - top five

A brilliant family day out amongst dedicated volunteers at Boness and Kinneil Railway

Briarlands Farm

This popular farm park lies just 8 miles or a scenic 15 minutes’ drive from Stirling, tucked into a tree-lined farm road near the village of Doune. You’ll find endless outdoors play here, with jumping pillows, go-Karts, toddler trikes, zip wire, sand pits, tractor rides and more. Feed the farm animals, and join one of the regular handling sessions to meet smaller furries. There’s a craft zone and a toddler play area when you need cover from showers, as well as a family-friendly tearoom with tonnes of home baking. Pick your own strawberries too, when the season comes around. For more information, see: http://briarlandsfarm.co.uk/

Blair Drummond Safari Park

This well-known safari park just outside Doune needs little introduction. Just a few minutes from Briarlands Farm, it’s around a 15-minute drive from Stirling City Centre. You’ll find everything from elephants, zebras and lions to penguins and sea-lions in this conservation-focused park. And there’s plenty thrown in to your ticket price too, including a range of demonstrations, boat safaris, pedal boats, Astroglide and ‘Meet the keepers’ sessions. Then there is a raft of paid attractions to consider too. The footprint is large, so it’s an idea to plan your visit in advance. For information, see: https://www.blairdrummond.com/

Boness and Kinneil Railway

This family-friendly heritage railway and museum is run by tireless volunteers who smile whatever the weather. They run steam trains throughout the year, with a host of special events ranging from Afternoon Teas on the Train, to Days out with Thomas, to Easter Egg Specials, and much more. Located in Boness, just 19 miles or a 29-minute drive from Stirling, Boness and Kinneil Railway is a brilliant day out for the family, even when the weather’s inclement. There’s a tearoom too, with a nostalgic atmosphere and proper gingham tablecloths. For more information, see: http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/

The Kelpies

To see them is to love them. These captivating sculptures tower some 30 metres above the M9, just 14 miles or 27 minutes’ drive from Stirling. And they are the stunning centrepiece of the Helix Park, a local greenspace for all that lies on the banks of the Forth Clyde Canal. Comprising 27 km of pathways, a lagoon, a splash zone, an unrivalled play area, bike hire, boat hire, cafes, visitor centre and public art spaces, the Helix has become one of Scotland’s most acclaimed visitor attractions. And yet it’s still free. There are regular events too. For more information, see: http://www.thehelix.co.uk/

Brucefields Family Golf Centre

If you fancy a family game of golf in inclusive, friendly surroundings, then Brucefields Family Golf Centre is for you. This 9-hole golf course lies just outside Bannockburn, only 3 miles outside Stirling. It offers a huge range of facilities and support services for all members of the family, whether they’re learners, experienced players or just there for the day out. There are some pretty good views to be enjoyed on the way round, too. There’s golf tuition, a driving range and a bistro bar too. Pay, play, have fun. More details here: http://www.brucefields.co.uk/

The Kelpies – figureheads for the fabulous Helix Park

Brucefields Family Golf Centre – golf, fun, and great views

Photo credits:

Briarlands Farm: Photos taken by Blue Stag Media, and reproduced with kind permission of Briarlands Farm
The Kelpies: Photo taken by, and reproduced with kind permission of, The Kelpies Team
Brucefields Family Golf Centre: Photo kindly supplied by Brucefields Family Golf Centre
Boness and Kinneil Railway: By Elliott Simpson, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8322907

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Spring and Easter escapes to beautiful Stirling

by ssc | Jan 26, 2017 | Blog

The Christmas credit card bill is paid, the mornings are getting lighter, and the dawn chorus is back. That can only mean one thing – spring is coming! And here’s why to spend it in Stirling.

Relax this spring in Gladstone’s beautiful gardens

Celebrate spring with champagne in the hot tub at Oakside cottage

A city break in Stirling

A spring break is all about taking a moment out of life to make some fresh memories and get outside a bit more. Fancy a city break? Stay at one of our properties in the heart of the city. Take a peek at Gladstone, Pear Tree House, and the Courtyard, to enjoy a luxurious break that puts you right at the heart of things. Just minutes from King’s Park and a short stroll from the Castle, you’ll witness Stirling burst into bloom again after the colder months. We have properties in beautiful Bridge of Allan too, like Haverstock, Springwood and Allanwater. They are the perfect base to explore Bridge of Allan’s gardens and the University grounds set on the historic Airthrey Estate. There are many unique little shops and great dining tucked away in this former spa town, too.

A secluded break to enjoy nature

Perhaps you’d prefer to immerse yourself in a more rural setting away from the City. Our properties like LallyBroch, Oakside Cottage, Stronend Cottage or Balfron Hayloft will give you the seclusion and landscape you crave. Whether you want to escape as a couple, a family, or group, these properties offer stunning views, easy access to Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, wood burning stoves, hot tubs and idyllic settings. Outlander fans may even want to use Lallybroch as their base for an film locations tour, too. Or, for young families, these properties are ideal for visits to the Balfron Woodland Experience, Blair Drummond Safari Park, which reopens on 18 March, and Briarlands Farm, which re-opens in mid-February.

Wherever you choose to stay, make sure you don’t miss out on these fabulous Spring and Easter events in Stirlingshire:

The Snowdrop Festival

Nothing promises that spring is coming quite like snowdrops. And every year, Scotland opens up many of its most beautiful gardens, so that the everyone can enjoy the season’s snowdrop displays. The Festival runs from 18 February to 12 March. You can find participating gardens here: http://www.scotlandsgardens.org/news/snowdrops-2017

Easter Egg hunts at historic buildings

Thinking of booking your spring break at Easter time? Cadbury have teamed up with the National Trust for Scotland again this year to create Easter Egg Hunts in some of Scotland’s most historic settings. Chocolate and culture, combined! Find an Easter Egg Hunt near you: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/whats-on/event/?eventId=297608b0-3502-4fde-9195-a6cc00fa3d0c

Easter Egg Steam Trains

Boness and Kinneil’s annual Easter trains run on 14 and 15 April and are becoming ever more popular. Climb aboard, enjoy the short trip, and the conductor will arrive with a chocolate egg for every child. Children wearing Easter bonnets also have the chance to win a prize. And there are Easter egg hunts in the museum too. Book soon! For tickets and schedule, see: http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/your-visit/events/

Crannog Centre Easter Extravaganza

Help the Crannog Centre kick-start their 20th anniversary year by celebrating Easter Iron Age style on beautiful Loch Tay, Perthshire. Join their Pancake Eggstravaganza on Easter Sunday, 16 April from 10.30am to 4.30pm. You will cook pancakes over an open fire, bake bread in clay ovens, and churn your own butter to spread on them. Gather round the fire to learn about ancient crafts and ways of life from skilled Iron Age guides. Or just gaze into the flames. For more information, see: http://www.crannog.co.uk/

Nothing says spring like the Snowdrop Festival

The Crannog Centre, on stunning Loch Tay

Photo credits:

Crannog Centre on Loch Tay: By Dave Morris from Edinburgh, UK (Flickr.com – image description page) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

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Thank heaven for Robert Burns

by ssc | Jan 10, 2017 | Blog

Whatever you think of his poetry, there’s no denying that all Scots have one thing to thank Rabbie for. Quite simply, the bard brings a welcome and guilt-free knees-up to an otherwise dreich January. Respite from the post-Christmas dark days and all that self-denial. So, get together with some pals, buy yourselves a haggis, and raise a glass to the farmer poet on 25 January. Or, if you want to mark the event with a day or a night out, here are our top picks!

You’ll spot Robert the Bruce on your Bannockburn drive thru

Celebrate with a traditional Burns Supper at Stirling’s stunning University campus

Burns Supper Drive Thru at the Battle of Bannockburn Centre

No need to book – just ‘drive thru’ at a time that suits! Enjoy a Burns Supper with a twist at the first-ever Bannockburn Burns Supper Drive Thru. Drive into Bannockburn, order and then enjoy in the comfort of your own car or take away. You may even happen across a bit of poetry or a song on the way. The Burns Haggis Supper features haggis, champit neeps and mashed tatties with a whisky sauce, followed by a Tunnock’s Teacake, all washed down with a can of Irn Bru for £6.50. There are veggie options too, and the kids might prefer the haggis bon bons or chicken goujons with skinny fries. From 3.30 on Saturday 25. For directions and more info: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/bannockburn

Burns Night at the Kilted Kangaroo

For an informal and fun Burns Night in genial company, head to the Kilted Kangaroo Bar in Stirling City Centre to celebrate Scotland’s fondest son. Tickets are £21.50 include a three course menu, piper and dram. For info: https://www.facebook.com/events/the-kilted-kangaroo/burns-night-kilted-kangaroo/463948674267173/

Burns Supper and Ceilidh at the University of Stirling

Head to the stunning University Campus on 24 January for a more formal celebration of Scottish culture to commemorate the life and work of Robert Burns. An evening of traditional food and drink, poetry and Scottish dancing. Book now – this event has sold out for the last 7 years! For tickets: https://www.stir.ac.uk/events/calendar-of-events/2020/january/burns-supper-and-ceilidh/

Burns events at The Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh

The Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh loves celebrating Burns in real depth, and is well worth the one-hour train hop from Stirling. Check out these inspiring events.

Telling the Big Tale: On 18 January, head to the City for ‘Tam O’Shanter – Telling the Big Tale’. Donald Smith shares his lifelong quest to understand the poem and do it justice in that ever-elusive perfect telling. Suitable for those wishing to understand Burns’ defining work, as well as those focussed on performing or interpreting his work artistically. A mighty challenge packed with fun, and do hurry for tickets.

Café Ceilidh: Contrastingly, on 21 January, join friends from the Scots Music Group for an afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories celebrating Scotland’s national poet. It’s held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court, and is free, non-ticketed and all are welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn!

Supper with Burns: Enjoy an alternative Burns Supper in the beautiful setting of the Storytelling Court, serving up a delicious 3-course Scottish dinner – with the centre piece haggis – and a generous helping of Burns’s stories, song and lore. Hosted by storytellers David Campbell and Ruth Kirkpatrick, with clarsach player Katie Harrigan. Hurry to book: only two dates, 23 or 24 January.

Burns for Brunch: On 25 January, the Netherbow Theatre welcomes Robert Burns as he awakes in Auld Reekie 2020 sharing his thoughts, poems and songs, casting a satiric eye around his Scotland and ours. For 14+ and hurry for tickets!

The Ceilidh House Tam O’Shanter: You’ll receive a warm welcome on 25 January to the Burns Night Ceilidh House, where people meet to dance, sing, play music and share stories. Enjoy a special improvised ceilidh telling of Tam O’ Shanter in a friendly, lively, and enjoyable setting, with the chance to participate or just to sit back and enjoy the fun!

For all events above held at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, see: https://www.scottishstorytellingcentre.com/

A wee dram, the traditional tipple for Burns Night

A wee dram: a traditional tipple for Burns Night

Choose from a number of events to celebrate Burns Night at the Scottish Storytelling Centre

Photo credits:

Scottish Storytelling Centre: Image supplied by their media centre
Nicky Tams Bar & Bothy: Photo reproduced with permission of Nicky Tams

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Time for ‘just the two of us’?

by ssc | Dec 22, 2016 | Blog

Christmas is a brilliant time of year, but there’s no denying it can get crowded! Family, friends, in-laws and everyone in between will soon be beating a path to your door. So, wouldn’t it be nice to have something to quietly look forward to? For just the two of you? Stirling is a beautiful place for a romantic break, and these properties might be just what you’re looking for.

Springwood apartment offers luxury for two in a central location

Stronend Cottage, for couples who want to escape to a peaceful setting

Fine dining and a short walk home

Springwood Apartment: This luxurious one-bedroomed apartment is set within a beautiful Grade B listed Victorian villa. Standing in mature and secluded gardens, the apartment offers privacy and quiet, even though it’s just a short walk to Stirling city centre. So, it’s perfect for couples who plan a few tables for two during their stay. Within walking distance, you’ll find many options for dining, including the Friar’s Wynd Hotel and the Colessio Hotel. To book Springwood: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/springwood-apartment/

Situated at the foot of the Castle hill in Friar’s Street, Stirling, The Friar’s Wynd is recently renovated, restoring original period features to give it a truly Scottish feel. The restaurant draws from traditional Scottish fare alongside contemporary dishes. There’s a good wine selection in the bar, and plenty of local whiskies too. http://www.friarswynd.co.uk/

The Colessio Hotel in Spittal Street, Stirling is a decadently grand boutique hotel. It includes a sophisticated cocktail bar and Grill Room Restaurant. The striking Grill Room restaurant offers high quality local produce, prepared with flair and impeccably served. Be seen in the bar and peruse the ever-changing cocktail menu. A special night out for two! http://www.hotelcolessio.com/

Seclusion, nature and panoramic views

Stronend Cottage: Though it can sleep six, this is still a great value choice for two people wanting to leave the hustle of Christmas behind. Located on the south-east margin of the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, Stronend Cottage offers peace and tranquility. Yet it’s within easy reach of Stirling, Glasgow and Edinburgh, and all that the area has to offer.

This old-style farm cottage has been recently built to exacting standards, with traditional features found in local dwellings that have stood for generations. Enjoy superb spectacular sunsets and panoramic views from the open plan dining and lounge area. Or, on warmer evenings, the large enclosed garden is the perfect space for a sundowner, while taking in the views. To book: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/stronend-cottage/

Nights by the fire and star-gazing

Redcarr Lodge: If the two of you fancy cosying up by a wood-burning stove in an idyllic lodge house, then Redcarr Lodge is for you. Nestled in the quiet village of Blairlogie at the foot of the Ochill Hills, Redcarr Lodge is a beautifully restored cottage just five minutes’ drive from the centre of Stirling and all main routes. Set in immaculate gardens, the lodge itself provides a haven for couples. There’s a real country cottage atmosphere, yet it’s within easy access of all Stirling’s attractions.

The tranquil Scottish village of Blairlogie is set in a magnificent landscape, ideal for walking. Many of our guests also enjoy the short walk from Redcarr Lodge to the nearby ‘Coffee Bothy’ for coffee, cake and a warm welcome. This area is largely free of light pollution, too, so star gazers will appreciate the dark skies that this property offers. Be sure to pack your binoculars or telescope! To book: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/redcarr-lodge/

Redcarr Lodge, a cosy break for two

Redcarr’s secluded gardens come into their own in the warmer months

More information: Henderson’s Bistro, Albert Halls, Dumbarton Road, Stirling FK8 2QL. Tel: 01786 469727 Website: www.hendersonsstirling.co.uk

Photo credits: Food and interior pics of Albert Halls, reproduced by kind permission of Henderson’s Bistro. Photographer Paul Andrew. Albert Halls exterior: Kenneth Allen [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.

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Lallybroch

by ssc | Dec 11, 2016 | Properties

SLEEPS: 10

Lallybroch (named after the fictional Estate in the award winning TV programme, Outlander) is an impressive 5 bedroom house steadings conversion.

Set on the Kersebonny Carse just outside Stirling, Lallybroch is within easy reach of all amenities and historic sites, yet in a very tranquil setting.

Recently modernised and furnished to an exceptionally high standard this unique property offers a twist on the traditional farmhouse. With views to Stirling Castle from the bedrooms on the top floor this house will provide a perfect base for your holiday in Scotland.

Set over three floors there is ample living and dining space for up to 10 people (maximum of 6 adults and 4 children at any one time). The accommodation comprises of an impressive, spacious lounge with fireplace, gas burner log fire and large plasma Freeview TV. There are patio doors leading from this room to the small rear patio garden. This room is a wonderful place to relax in with comfy seating for up to 10 guests.

The fully fitted farmhouse kitchen has everything needed for a comfortable stay: large farmhouse table that can easily seat 10 people, dishwasher, range cooker with five ring gas hob and two electric ovens, microwave and American style fridge/freezer. The kitchen leads to a separate Utility Room with washing machine and tumble drier.

Also on the lower floor is a small cloakroom with hanging space and a separate WC.

On the first floor there are three bedrooms: the master King-size en suite with large walk in drench shower and large walk in closet; a further king-size bedroom and double ensuite bedroom complete this floor.

On the top floor there are a further two bedrooms: one king-size and one with zip and link beds giving the option of either one king-size or two single beds. This floor also boasts a further two bathrooms both with over bath showers.