by ssc | Jul 31, 2014 | Blog
Bracklinn Falls, Callander, a well-known waterfall which now has a new footbridge over it (not pictured)
There is something captivating about waterfalls, especially when in full spate after hard rains. Dramatic and romantic, there are some stunning waterfalls to be seen in Stirlingshire. As the weather breaks up at the end of summer, waterfalls, in contrast, are reaching their spectacular best. By autumn, you’ll be able to watch salmon leap too, as they make their way upstream to spawn. Here are some of the closest falls to Stirling, and worth a visit whatever the weather.
Bracklinn Falls, Callander: (15 miles from Stirling). Located in the woods just above the beautiful town of Callander (worth a visit in its own right), Bracklinn Falls is a spectacular stepped waterfall best viewed from the vantage point just above the cascade. Queen Victoria is said to have visited here, and it’s not hard to see why. For the easiest walk, park your car in the Falls car park about halfway up Bracklinn Road, then follow the footpath up to the falls and the new bridge. For details on this short walk, and a longer, four-mile loop, see here: http://www.incallander.co.uk/bracklinnfalls/bracklinnfalls.htm
The Falls of Leny, Kilmahog
Falls of Leny, Kilmahog: (17 Miles from Stirling). If you are visiting Callander to see the Bracklinn Falls, be sure to take in the Falls of Leny too, near the village of Kilmahog, just north-west of Callander in the Trossachs National Park. This is a great falls to see if any of your party have mobility problems – there is a car park at the falls, and cyclists can even get right up to the falls too. This is a narrow-gorged waterfall, so is particularly dramatic after heavy rain. For its location see: http://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/falls-of-leny-p662861#location. The more adventurous can walk there from Callander itself, a distance of around five miles: http://www.scotsman.com/lifestyle/outdoors/walk-of-the-week-callander-to-falls-of-leny-1-3182009
Loup of Fintry, near Fintry: (17 miles from Stirling). Close to Stirling, the Loup of Fintry waterfall is on the River Endrick and lies just two miles from Fintry village. At 94ft high, this spectacular waterfall is best seen after rain or snow, as the Endrick River also feeds the Carron Reservoir. You can find the waterfall signposted two miles East of Fintry on the B818 Denny Road. For location see: http://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/loup-of-fintry-p669471#location
The Endrick Water, on which can be found the Loup of Fintry and Pots of Gartness waterfalls
Pots of Gartness, Killearn: (22 miles from Stirling). To the west of Killearn you will find Pots of Gartness, a series of stepped rocky waterfall pools whose natural ladder makes for spectacular salmon-watching in October and November. On the Endrick water like the Loup of Fintry, these falls once powered a mill, still visible in ruins alongside the former mill-worker dwellings. To reach the Falls by car, take the A81 Glasgow-Aberfoyle road, signposted for The Wishing Well. There is roadside parking just before the bridge. For location, see: http://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/pots-of-gartness-p669461#location
These are just a handful of the many stunning waterfalls to see in Scotland, handpicked because they are closest to Stirling. For information on falls further afield, this comprehensive list is well worth checking out, especially if you plan to watch the salmon leaping in autumn. http://www.visitscotland.com/about/nature-geography/waterfalls/loch-lomond-trossachs-forth-valley/
For tips on salmon-watching: http://www.bbc.co.uk/naturescalendar/autumn/freshwater/activities/
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by ssc | Jul 23, 2014 | Blog
The Loving Food Truck, bringing gourmet street food to Scotland
From time to time in our blogs, we’ll be looking at some ‘Local Heroes’: exceptional local businesses that are worth a visit during your stay in Stirling. First up is the ‘Loving Food Truck‘: if you’re in Stirling over the holidays and are looking for a brand-new food experience, it’s time to hit the streets and sample the unique and eclectic menus of the Loving Food Truck, which you’ll find at Station Road, Stirling, Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 2pm.
Loving Food was founded by Sandra Milne and Stewart Pleace, pioneers of the gourmet street food scene in Scotland. They state simply that “the goal of Loving Food is to offer super-tasty new food served with personality and banter” – and believe me, they are not short on good food or good chat. Both Stewart and Sandra have chucked in big careers with FTSE 100 companies to make a go of revolutionising Scottish street food, so they are understandably passionate about the success of their enterprise. The third personality in the venture is Hervé, their 1972 Citreon H Van, who the business partners love “like a long-lost French brother we once knew but were never introduced to until now”. The distinctive van with bespoke interior has already made his film debut in the Proclaimers’ movie “Sunshine on Leith”. And by the way, the term “he” is used with authority, because, as the (brilliant) Loving Food blog clearly states – Hervé does have an exhaust.
World-inspired food attracts customers of all nationalities
So that’s the founders, what about the food? Stewart and Sandra create world-inspired street food with a wide menu that changes daily. Some eye-catching staple themes are in there: handmade flatbreads with fantastic fillings; soups from local ingredients and some wild card flavours; tacos and sliders (small brioche buns) with unique fillings as well as “rebooted” favourites; even an unbeatable selection of both meat and veggie stews for inclement Scottish days. Still hungry? The Loving Food Truck bakes its own cakes daily, with familiar treats jockeying for position alongside Brazilian brigadeiros and Italian bombolinis. So what’s their secret to keeping the menu so fresh and diverse? “We want to bring something different to Scotland and Stirling. We researched in depth on food provision in Stirling and this clearly highlighted visitors’ desire for something more: we’ve tried and tested dishes from around the world. We also wanted to work exclusively with local producers and suppliers and also ramp up the green credentials of our business by using compostable packaging and keeping down the carbon footprint of our suppliers. We truly believe you can make something different and tasty using simple ingredients and, so far, our customers seem to like it. It might not be for everyone but we have our fingers and most other body parts crossed, hoping that there is an audience for what we’re trying to do”.
Hervé, The Loving Food Company’s anchorman
And the crossed fingers are working. The Loving Food Company has a packed diary that’s already catered weddings, “feastivals”, and high-profile events like Bannockburn Live. From their blog, however, it’s apparent that what they’re most proud of is working against all odds to secure their pitch at the newly re-developed site opposite Stirling Railway Station. Gaining permission to trade there was an 18-month long campaign for Stewart and Sandra, but a worthwhile one – and the pair are delighted. But why Stirling? “We’ve always thought Stirling could be more than what it is and is almost a micro Edinburgh with its castle and history. We’d love for Stirling to be at the forefront of street food and it is – as it’s the first city in Scotland to have a city centre food truck – so is leading the way ahead of its much larger city sisters and brothers”. So, if you plan to be in Stirling around lunchtime, make your breakfast a light one, and head to the Loving Food Truck for some exceptional fare, some great banter, and the chance to meet the very handsome Hervé too.
For more info, or to book the truck for your event: http://www.loving-food.com/
by ssc | Jul 17, 2014 | Blog
The boardwalk near the loch at Beecraigs Country Park
For those who like to get outdoors on holiday, there’s nothing quite like Scotland’s country parks. Not only do you get a natural landscape, but you get facilities too, so even the youngest or oldest nature-lover in your party can enjoy the fresh air, enhanced with the promise of a playpark or tea and cake. Here are a handful of great country parks just a stone’s throw from Stirling, each with their own unique attractions. Enjoy!
Gartmorn Dam, Alloa 7 miles: Because of the wildfowl that visit here in winter, Gartmorn Dam has been deemed a site of ‘Special Scientific Interest’ and supports a huge diversity of wildlife within its 370 acre expanse. You’ll find a bird hide and viewing screens to birdwatch up close, and as well as migratory birds you will spot woodpeckers, roe deer, wild hare and even red squirrels in the woodland areas. The extensive network of footpaths is great for walking, horse-riding or cycling. For information: http://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/gartmorn-dam-country-park-and-local-nature-reserve-p254001
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Aberfoyle, 19 miles: Head for the David Marshall Lodge, your gateway into Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Aberfoyle. This Forest Park claims one of the best views in Scotland from its café, so it’s worth a visit just to check! There are a number of easy and rewarding walking trails taking in everything from waterfalls to oak coppices, as well as brushwood mazes and water play for children. The more adventurous can go tree climbing with ‘Go Ape’ on site, while you may want to just observe from the Red Squirrel Hide. Entry is free although there is a £3 charge for all-day parking. There is a full list of summer events here too: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/forest-parks/queen-elizabeth-forest-park/the-lodge-forest-visitor-centre
Avon Aqueduct above Muiravonside Country Park
Muiravonside Country Park, 21 miles: With its animal stables, aviaries, Highland cattle, friendly Clydesdale horse Hamish, and cute Shetland ponies, this is a great choice for kids. However, everyone can enjoy the stunning and leisurely River Avon Heritage Trail around the park, past the historic Avon Aqueduct and the relics of bygone industry and farming. The park spans 170 acres and offers free entry, playgrounds, picnic areas and a tearoom too. This makes a great day out for a party of mixed ages. More info: http://www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/
Beecraigs Country Park, Linlithgow 23 miles: With a central loch and angling, a red deer herd and Highland cattle fold, as well as an extensive children’s adventure playground, Beecraigs has something for everyone within its 370 hectares. The park is open throughout the year and admission is free. The visitor centre provides information, bookings and advice about the park, and also sells hot and cold drinks and snacks, venison and Scottish gifts. For information: http://www.westlothian.gov.uk/tourism/countryparks/beecraigs/
River Tay and Friarton Bridge. Also visible on the far right is Kinnoull Tower.
Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park, Dunkeld, 45 miles: A longer drive but well worth the effort, Kinnoull Hill is deemed the ‘jewel in Perth’s crown’. Trails wander through mature woodlands of beech and pine to magnificent views over the river Tay. There’s an arboretum – a tree collection – too, where you can check out trees you might like to grow in your own garden. This area is also deservedly coming into vogue for autumn ‘leaf-peeping’, rivalling New England in the Fall for its colour and beauty. For more information: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/visit/kinnoull-hill
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by ssc | Jul 3, 2014 | Blog
Nothing puts you in holiday mood like messing about on the water. Boats slow life down, make us appreciate our surroundings, or get us to secret places we might not otherwise see. For this week’s blog, we look at three great little boat trips not far from Stirling that make a memorable day out – and no nautical skills required!
Inchcolm Abbey is reached by a rewarding boat trip from South Queensferry
Inchcolm Abbey: Established as an Abbey by David 1 in 1235, Inchcolm Abbey is the best preserved group of monastic buildings in Scotland. The Abbey enjoys a spectacular setting on the island of Inchcolm, which sits in the Firth of Forth and is reached by a regular ferry service from South Queensferry (just 29 miles or 34 mins drive from Stirling). The boat trip out is rewarding in itself; passengers will invariably spot seals, puffins, cormorants and other estuarine wildlife, and the boat’s guides will bring you close to the striking coastal defences from the two World Wars that also remain preserved in this area. Two main providers leave from South Queensferry – Maid of the Forth Boat Tours and Forth Tours. Each of these well-managed providers offer an optional stay on the island, a tourist commentary, enclosed viewing decks, and refreshments on board. A beautiful trip well worth the ticket fare. This attraction closes November to 1 March. See: http://www.maidoftheforth.co.uk/ and http://www.forthtours.com/inchcolm.asp
A short ferry boat trip takes you to tranquil Inchmahome Priory on the Lake of Menteith
Inchmahome Priory: Not to be confused with the trip above, Inchmahome Priory is an Augustinian Monastery dating from 1238, which sits on the tranquil Lake of Menteith, just 17 miles or 25 mins drive from Stirling. The ferry service operates from the Port of Menteith and is a lower-key affair, with the ferry seating only 12 passengers and running on an on-demand basis. If the boat is not waiting at the pier when you arrive, turn the wooden board so that the white side faces the island, which will prompt the ferry to return. While the small scale of this operation is part of its charm, it does mean that visitors in wheelchairs are unlikely to be manage the visit. The peaceful island is rich in wildlife (look out for ospreys) and is a fabulous place for a picnic with stunning views. There is a small visitor centre. This attraction closes November to March. For tickets and more information: http://tickets.historic-scotland.gov.uk/webstore/shop/ViewItems.aspx?CG=TKTS&C=WSCW#inchmahome
Linlitghgow Canal Centre offers boat trips for those who love just being on the water
Linlithgow Canal Centre: If you like spending time on the water purely for its own sake, then Linlithgow Canal Centre is for you. The Canal Centre (just 22 miles or 29 mins from Stirling) is operated entirely by volunteers and their love of the boats and the water brings a little magic to your trip. The Centre runs three core trips – a half-hour town cruise, a three-hour Avon Aqueduct Cruise, and a Falkirk Wheel Cruise. The Aqueduct cruises take place at weekends, The Falkirk Wheel cruises on specified dates, while the town cruises run daily throughout the summer from 30 June. Tickets are very good value, staff have a wealth of local knowledge, and you can enjoy some gorgeous home baking before or after in the Canal Centre Tearoom (with a wood fire in winter). The Canal Centre is a hidden gem in the heart of Linlithgow, and worthwhile supporting too. Don’t miss their Canal Fun Day on 17th August and bring a picnic. For detail on ticket prices, cruises, special events and facilities, see: http://www.lucs.org.uk/
If these trips have whetted your appetite, visit this website http://www.visitscotland.com/ and search for ‘boat trips’ to find hundreds of options on offer.
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by ssc | Jun 26, 2014 | Blog
We’ve put together a list of some of the best summer family days out there are in Stirling (without even mentioning the Castle and the Wallace Monument!). If you are in Stirling with kids in the summer holidays, you will be looking for a mix of ‘big day out’ and ‘cheap and cheerful’ days. Here are some ideas to help you build your own itinerary to suit your family, your pocket, and the weather.
Big days out
Zebras at Blair Drummond Safari Park
Blair Drummond Safari Park: Less than 7 miles from Stirling, you can see lions, tigers, chimps, llamas, meerkats and much more, alongside home-grown species like Clydesdale horses and otters. Included in the admission price are boat trips round Chimp Island, sea lion shows and birds of prey displays, adventure playgrounds and pedal boats. The bouncy castle, face-painting and fun fair will cost a little extra. Two adults and two kids online ticket: £45. Website: http://www.blairdrummond.com/
Briarlands farm, Blair Drummond: Outdoor activities include jumping pillows, tractor go karts, cable ride, mini diggers, tyre maze, sand pits, a football skills challenge and animal paddocks. Indoors there is a Busy Bees craft area, Farmers Den tearoom, and you can pick your own strawberries in polytunnels too. Family entry £20. Website: http://www.briarlandsfarm.co.uk/
Battle of Bannockburn Centre: Advance booking is essential for the new state of the art centre. With costumed actors, 3D battle games and battle shows, this is an immersive tour of medieval battle best for children 7 years and above. Family tickets (two adults and up to 4 children) £30, single parent family tickets £25. Website: http://battleofbannockburn.com/.
Boness and Kinneil Railway: Take a ride on a steam train, even enjoy afternoon tea on board, or (if you are here late July) have a day out on Thomas the Tank Engine. A memorable day out with a range of tickets prices starting at Adults £9, under-fives free, with family tickets (2+3) at £25. Website: http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/
Jousting at Linlithgow Palace in July
Jousting at Linlithgow Palace: This spectacular annual event on 5 and 6 July sees costumed knights on horseback battle it out with real-life lances in traditional jousting and foot combat. There are lots of family activities too, with insights into medieval costume, a chance to meet court jesters and more. Family tickets booked online start start at £21.38. For details visit: http://www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Free days out
Callander House: Callander House in Falkirk is a brilliant free resource set in beautiful park gardens perfect for a picnic, with a kids play area on hand too. Inside the house’s restored and working Georgian kitchens, costumed staff share historic food samples, recipes and activities. The Park Gallery also runs a programme of arts and crafts activities for children of all ages. For details of the free summer programme, see this website and click at the top right to download the PDF: http://www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/venues/callendar-house/
The Kelpies at the Helix, Falkirk
The Helix: Scotland’s newest visitor attraction has something for everyone including cycleways, public art and outdoor events, canoeing, kayaking, sailing and nature activities. It’s all about connecting with our environment again, and learning about it while having loads of (free) fun in spectacular surroundings. Nestled under the shadow of sculptor Andy Smith’s Kelpies, this new park is definitely worth a visit. Website: http://www.thehelix.co.uk/things-to-do/
The Stirling Smith Museum: While small children may not be too interested the Museum’s exhibitions, the grounds outside have become a free visitor attraction in their own right. Ailie’s Garden comprises everything from a storytelling area to a willow garden, outdoor chess and draughts, a picnic area, sculpture, mosaics, labyrinth, and a children’s play area: a unique example of outdoor gallery and biodiversity garden combined. For more information: http://www.smithartgalleryandmuseum.co.uk/visitors/allies-garden
Kings Park Stirling: Very near many of our properties in Stirling, Stirling’s biggest park and playground is free entry and is fully equipped for children of all ages. There is putting, crazy golf, giant draughts/chess, tennis courts, a wheelie park for skateboards, skates and BMX bikes, toddler swings and sand areas, climbing frames, slides, helter skelter, a tyre swing and trampolines. There is plenty of space for picnics, walks and views across to the castle too. For info: http://www.visitstirling.org/AttractionDetails.aspx?docid=247
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