Private Stirling Dark Side Tour
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Originally created as a sold-out Halloween special event, we're excited to offer this as a private tour. Do something different on your trip to Stirling!
Jails, graveyards, and one of the most important castles in Scotland - Stirling has it all. But on this walking tour, there are no rose-tinted glasses or stories of Robert the Bruce. Discover Stirling's darker history, walking through Stirling's graveyard and spooky streets with your local guide uncovering Stirling's dark history.
From unsolved murders, to grave-robbers and ghosts, immerse yourself in the creepy history of Stirling, Scotland's city with a long, dark history. See some of the stories you will discover below.
Tour highlights:
The witch trials of Stirling
The plague and death
Holy Rude cemetery
The grave robbers of Stirling
…& much more!
Available options
Private Stirling Dark Side Tour
Large groups
Size of group
What's included
A local expert guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide and discover the grim facade of Stirling Old Town Jail and the surprising truth hidden in its hulking exterior
2
View the Stirling Youth Hostel with new eyes when you hear about the secrets buried in its grounds
3
Venture onto the Back Walk (if you dare!) to admire the best preserved city walls in the UK, and learn how they have protected the residents of Stirling
4
The historic heart of the Old Town, you can look at the street with new eyes as you hear stories of torture, execution and the filth that once covered this beautiful street
5
Look upon the Tolbooth with new eyes as your guide reveals the horrors that happened inside this beautiful building and the executions that took place where you now stand
6
Examine the ruins of Mar's Lodging to reveal it's once-luxurious carvings and its tragic past
7
Keep an wary eye on the statue of local hero John Cowane - was he really as charitable and godly as he seemed?
8
View the scarred church, and traverse the Old Kirkyard to reveal some of the secrets of the gravestones
9
Stop 9
Finish the tour on Stirling Castle Esplanade with the grisly tale of the Battle of Stirling Bridge and reveal the truth about William Wallace
What's not included
Any further admissions to historical sites and attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Your guide will be waiting outside Stirling Old Town Jail off St John Street, and will be wearing an orange jacket or lanyard
Important notes
Please show your guide your confirmation on arrival
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
