Time to walk: Stirling on foot

The Church of the Holy Rude, Stirling

Church of the Holy Rude

Everyone knows the benefits of walking; it’s cheap, healthy, protects the planet, and it can give you a whole new perspective on your surroundings. Walking gives us a chance to see new places at a slower pace, and to appreciate the details we miss by faster modes of transport. Often it’s the small things that make the best memories, so ditch the car, and enjoy Stirling on foot.

Stirling Old Town Walk: Stirling’s ‘Old Town’ is a small area crammed with history. Follow the route that everyone from king to cattle-trader took to enter the Castle area before the present city centre even appeared. Starting at Port Street, this 1km circle will take you past such landmarks as Cowane’s Hospital, the Church of the Holy Rude, Argyll’s lodging, as well as the city’s Mercat Cross and some of the Old Town’s oldest civic buildings. For details see: http://www.visitstirling.org/WalkDetails.aspx?docid=57&nav1=4

The Albert Halls in Stirling

The Albert Halls in Stirling

The Back Walk: This 1.5km circle follows the route of the 16th-century old town walls, starting in Dumbarton Road. You will pass Stirling’s Albert Halls, the Stirling Smith Museum, and the celebrated villas of King’s Park, home to several of our properties. On a clear day, look west to see Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro before returning to the top of the Old Town. For details see: http://www.visitstirling.org/WalkDetails.aspx?docid=270&nav1=4

View from the Wallace Monument Stirling

Just a glimpse of the some of the views to be enjoyed from the Abbey Craig,Stirling

Wallace Monument and Abbey Craig: For unrivalled views of Stirling in historic surroundings, as well as some gentle exercise, there is no vantage point quite like the Wallace Monument. Built on top of the Abbey Craig and reopening in April after a major refurbishment, the Monument is reached after a 15 minute steady walk up to the base – take your time or ask at the base Visitor Reception if you need to take the shuttle bus. From the top of the Abbey Craig (the base of the Monument itself) two marked trails explore the cliff-top woods and reveal some stunning views. The terrain is good but can be steep in places, so take your time and wear robust shoes. For more details see: http://www.instirling.com/wallace_monument_stirling.html

Stirling Walking Tours: If you prefer to follow a guide who knows the area intimately and will entertain along the way, then Stirling Walking Tours may be for you. Highly rated on Trip Advisor, Stirling Walking Tours offer comedy, drama and storytelling as they guide you through the streets of Stirling in full costume. Book on their website (no minimum numbers required) or email to arrange your own tailored tour. For details see: http://www.stirlingwalkingtours.com/

Stirling Ghost Walk: If you’ve a penchant for the ghoulish side of history, then you’ll enjoy a Stirling Ghost walk! Their tours offer “Fear, Fun and Frights for all the Family” in comic and creepy night-time walks round the city. Meet at the Old Town Jail in John Street, Stirling, with no need to pre-book. For dates and details, see:  http://www.stirlingghostwalk.com/

For more ideas, take a look at these websites:

Image credits: