3 Hour Private Tour of Stirling Old Town and Stirling Castle
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3h
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About this experience
Join us for a completely unique Stirling private experience; immerse yourself in the old town of Stirling and Stirling Castle on this 3 hour tour with a local, expert guide.
You'll spend the first 90 minutes walking through Stirling's old town with your guide. Walk in the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce whilst you hear the tales of battles, kings and queens who shaped Stirling, and Scotland into the place it is today. Learn about executions, marketplaces and grave robbers as well as modern life in this bustling city.
After the walk, enjoy discovering Stirling Castle with your local guide. Highlights in Stirling Castle include the Great Hall, the Royal Apartments and Stirling Heads. Everything is included in the price, just show up and enjoy!
Cancellation policy: email us 7+ days in advance and we will cancel/full refund. Tripadvisor won't let us set this as our policy! Thanks.
Available options
3 Hour Private Tour of Stirling Old Town and Stirling Castle
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
We begin the tour outside the VisitScotland iCentre and get an introduction to Stirling. Then head up to the Old Town Jail to admire the unusual building and discover it's past
2
Examine some of the buildings that make Stirling a patchwork of different eras, as your guide points out certain characteristics of the architecture (exterior visit only)
3
Admire the cannons that decorate this street and lift your eyes up to a building shrouded in history - Lord Darnley's House
4
From one jail to another, visit our Tollbooth and Mercat Cross. Learning about the areas rich trading history, and violent past! (exterior visit only)
5
Unravel the past of this once-great house that is now in ruins. The history will come alive as your guide reveals the secrets before your very eyes
6
Enjoy the quiet serenity of the top of the town in the shadow of Holy Rude and the newly-renovated Cowane's Hospital, and learn about its benefactor and local hero, John Cowane (exterior visit only)
7
Discover the Church of the Holy Rude, and the cemetery area. From grave diggers, to Mary Queen of Scots, there's so much history in this area (exterior visit only)
8
Stop 8
View the Wallace Monument from the Castle esplanade, and discover William Wallace's importance to Stirling, and to Scotland! (seen from a distance)
9
Stop 9
After discovering the background to Stirling's history, visit in Stirling Castle with the guide for 90 minutes. Key highlights include the Great Hall, the Royal Apartments and Stirling Heads.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
12 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Please meet outside the Stirling Old Town Jail on St John Street
About Stirling
Stirling is a historic city in central Scotland, renowned for its rich history and strategic location. It's home to some of Scotland's most iconic landmarks and offers a blend of medieval charm and modern amenities.
Top Attractions
Stirling Castle
A magnificent castle with a rich history, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's royal past.
Historical
2-3 hours
£16.50 (adult), free for children under 16
The Wallace Monument
A towering monument dedicated to Sir William Wallace, a Scottish hero who fought for independence.
Historical
1-2 hours
£10.50 (adult), £6.30 (child)
Stirling Old Town Jail
A historic jail that offers a fascinating insight into the lives of prisoners in the 19th century.
Historical
1-1.5 hours
£9.50 (adult), £5.70 (child)
Church of the Holy Rude
One of the most historic churches in Scotland, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Bannockburn Visitor Centre
A modern visitor center dedicated to the Battle of Bannockburn, a pivotal moment in Scottish history.
Historical
1.5-2 hours
£10.50 (adult), £6.30 (child)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis, Neeps and Tatties
A traditional Scottish dish made with haggis (a savory pudding containing sheep's heart, liver, and lungs mixed with oatmeal), neeps (turnips), and tatties (potatoes).
Main Course
Not vegetarian or vegan.
Cullen Skink
A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions.
Soup
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Cranachan
A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oats.
Dessert
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.
Scotch Pie
A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Cycling
Climbing
Spa Day
Scenic Walks
Reading in a Cozy Cafe
Museum Visits
Historic Site Tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and events.
12°C to 18°C
54°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English, Scottish Gaelic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (GMT+1 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Stirling is a generally safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis and tour operators
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Edinburgh Airport • 40 miles (64 km)
- Glasgow Airport • 25 miles (40 km)
By train
Stirling Station
By bus
Stirling Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Stirling City Centre
Causewayhead
Bridge of Allan
Day trips
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
30 miles (48 km) • Full day
A stunning national park with beautiful lochs, mountains, and forests, perfect for hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting.
Doune Castle
10 miles (16 km) • Half day
A medieval castle that has been featured in films and TV shows, including Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Outlander.
Falkirk
15 miles (24 km) • Half day
A town known for its historic sites, including the Falkirk Wheel and the Antonine Wall.
Festivals
Stirling Highland Games • First Saturday in June
Stirling Castle Concerts • June to August
Stirling Folk Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit Stirling Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
- Combine visits to Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Explore the city's historic streets and hidden alleys for a unique perspective on Stirling's past.
- Take a guided tour to learn about Stirling's rich history and hidden gems.
- Try local Scottish dishes at traditional pubs and restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
