Photo source: Kenneth C. Zirkel, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
About this place
Stirling Castle stands on a volcanic crag above the city of Stirling, guarding the lowest crossing point of the River Forth.
Much of the present building dates from the 15th and 16th centuries, when it served as one of the main residences of the Stewart kings and queens.
Its position made it one of the most fought-over strongholds in Scotland, sitting close to the battlefields of Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn.
Historic Environment Scotland cares for the castle today.
Read more on WikipediaHistory
The castle's strategic command of the Forth crossing gave rise to the old saying that whoever holds Stirling holds Scotland, reflecting its importance in Scottish military history. It was a principal seat of the Stewart monarchs for generations, and Mary, Queen of Scots was crowned within its walls as an infant in 1543. The buildings visible today largely reflect rebuilding under James IV and James V in the late 15th and early 16th centuries.
Architecture
The castle combines late medieval defensive architecture with early Renaissance palace building, most notably the Great Hall raised under James IV and the royal palace remodelled by James V, whose facades carry elaborate carved decoration influenced by French and Italian design.
Worth knowing
The castle overlooks the site of the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 and stands near Stirling Bridge, scene of William Wallace's victory in 1297, making the surrounding ground as significant as the building itself.
Facilities
Plan your visit
Nearest station: Stirling Rail Station (0.5 miles)
Nearby properties
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View Dollar Glen on heritage mapHistoric places nearby
Within 5 miles of Stirling Castle (FK8) there are 8 historic properties, including 5 historic sites and 2 churchs.
Within 10 miles of Stirling Castle (FK8) there are 15 historic properties, including 5 historic sites, 3 historic buildings and 2 churchs, across Historic Environment Scotland and National Trust for Scotland sites.
Within 20 miles of Stirling Castle (FK8) there are 41 historic properties, including 8 castles, 7 historic sites and 7 historic buildings, across Historic Environment Scotland, National Trust for Scotland and Historic Houses sites.
Facts
A royal Stewart castle on a crag that watched over two of Scotland's most decisive battles.
- Type
- castle
- Location
- Stirling, Scotland
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