Beautiful Stirlingshire is a hugely attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts keen to explore Scotland’s striking landscapes, as well as to discover historic Stirling. There is a small range of charming country house hotels and rural B&Bs in the area, suitable for a whole host of budgets and areas of interest. Our pick of the best places to stay in Stirlingshire includes some gorgeous hideaways nestled amidst spectacular scenery, ideal for a Scottish escape.
Stirling itself is famed for its impressive Old Town and well-preserved fortified castle set atop an extinct volcano — recently voted one of the UK’s top visitor attractions. Once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, Stirling Castle offers a fascinating chance to step back in time, a feeling that continues along the cobbled streets of the Old Town, too, which are lined with medieval buildings. Don’t miss the imposing Gothic monument to folk hero William Wallace, who had one of his great victories at Stirling Old Bridge.
The area around Stirling is filled with places of historic interest. Bannockburn, site of one of Robert the Bruce’s military triumphs over the English during the First War of Scottish Independence is close by, as is the monument to the 1746 Battle of Falkirk Muir, in which the Jacobites defeated Henry Hawley’s government forces.
Often considered the gateway to the Highlands, Stirlingshire boasts stacks of striking scenery, too. Stroll along the banks of Loch Lomond, clamber up Ben Lomond — Stirlingshire’s highest peak — admire the Carron Valley Reservoir and enjoy hiking or birdwatching in the Trossachs National Park or the Campsie Fells. Visitors to Stirlingshire are also well-placed to experience many of Scotland’s most famous spots, with the lively cultural cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as pretty St Andrews, just an hour’s drive from Stirling.
Whether you’re an avid history buff, an eager golfer, happy hiker, kayaker, birdwatcher or keen on fishing, there’s no shortage of activities to absorb nature lovers in the region. Most of the best places to stay in Stirlingshire are old historic houses — now elegant hotels or intimate B&Bs — set in peaceful rural surroundings and offering the perfect opportunity to soak up the area’s many wonders.
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Stirlingshire
Four secluded and luxurious cottages are set in a remote and scenic setting in Trossachs National Park. Interiors have a scandi-chic feel with wood-burning stoves, plenty of wood, and smart kitchens. The best have romantic outdoor hot tubs. Homemade dishes are offered. A perfect rural hideaway.
Stirling
An elegant small hotel and restaurant set in historic Stirling. Beautifully styled rooms are traditionally dressed with antiques, patterned wallpaper, and sash windows. A fine dining restaurant serves innovative British cuisine. With an adult atmosphere, this is ideal for a couples' escape.
Stirlingshire
A little piece of New England in the Trossachs National Park overlooking Scotland's only lake. Prettily decorated rooms with floral wallpaper, comfy beds and contemporary bathrooms. Excellent, award winning, cuisine. The perfect country escape.
Stirlingshire
This top of the range country house hotel in Dunblane has been refurbished with no expense spared. A low key feel, spiced up by a dash of glamour in the bar and restaurant. Family-friendly with lovely personal touches such as homemade shortbread from Andy's granny. 5-star luxury and 5-star service.
