Stirling perches in a seemingly impregnable position, on top of an extinct volcano, its beautifully preserved castle sitting pride of place right at the top of the equally well-preserved Old Town. Stirling's impressive historic sights are arguably some of Scotland’s finest. When searching for the best places to stay in Stirling look for accommodation just outside the city itself where there are an enticing array of country houses ranging from charming and traditional to incredibly grand. There are plenty of accommodation options in the town centre, but we don't think that they're paticularly impressive!

Stirling doesn't just boast the castle (recently voted one of the UK's best visitor attractions) which was once home to Mary, Queen of Scots. It is also considered 'the gateway to the Highlands', hence its political importance historically. It has a grand Gothic monument to William Wallace (AKA Braveheart) and is also the location of one of his great triumphs, Stirling Old Bridge. Nearby is the site of another great Scottish legend's, Robert the Bruce's, great military triumph over the English - Bannockburn.

The Old Town's cobbled streets are lined with buildings dating from the 12th to the 17th Century, demonstrating the city's growth in wealth and power. All this within some of the best-preserved city walls in the UK - possibly due to the fact that they date from around the middle of the 16th Century, when Henry VIII was 'roughly wooing' Queen Mary on behalf of his son. If you follow the wall around, you'll also pass Stirling's cemeteries and the Beheading Stone. However, it is also its location, bordering on Highland country, that draws visitors to Stirling as it is an obvious choice for walkers and hikers.

Our guide to the best places to stay in Stirling has something for all tastes and budgets whether you're looking for a country house style B&B or no-holds-barred, five-star luxury.

The best places to stay in Stirling

For sheer luxury

• But for the real royal experience stay at Cromlix, a top of the range country house hotel recently refurbished by Scottish tennis star, Andy Murray. No expense has been spared. There's even tennis coaching on offer.

For an apartment or holiday home

• If you've decided that a self catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel information

• The nearest and most convenient airport is Edinburgh Airport. It is located 29 miles (47km) from Stirling, and is easily reachable via the M9 motorway or train. Stirling station is located on the Highland Main Line from Glasgow/Edinburgh to Inverness.
• Best time to visit - Stirling is a year round destination with each season offering its own charm. However, for the best chance of warm days travel in the summer months (May-August).
• If you plan to hire a car, which is strongly advisable if you want to explore further afield, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all the best places in Stirlingshire.
• Alternatively, check out our recommendations in Perthshire.
• Or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.