Ask Shaun
Published on July 29th, 2008.
With summer finally in full swing, yours truly had to take time out of his busy tanning schedule to make sure you all received this month’s hot travel tip. In fact, I’m really excited to tell you about one of my all time favourite places in the UK, a city I’m sure you all will fall in love with. Just which fantastic city am I talking about you ask? Well, you’ll have to wait until next month’s newsletter to find out….Just kidding. The answer is the wonderful Scottish city of Stirling!
Stirling is said to be ‘the best small city in Scotland’, a claim this globe-trotter can’t argue with. The city has a great energy, and its blend of cutting edge style with old world charm, makes it one of the most underrated destinations in the UK. The city also boasts a ton of activities, ensuring that there is something to do for every kind of traveler.
First and foremost, no trip to Stirling would be complete without a small trek out to the majestic William Wallace Monument. This incredible tower will keep you captivated from the second you see it. You’ll learn all about the great William ‘Braveheart’ Wallace (and get to see his real life sword) as well as a number of other brave Scots in the Hall of Heroes. For visitors not afraid of a few steps, I urge you to climb to the top and experience an unparalleled view of Scotland that stretches from Ben Lomond to Edinburgh!
Opening Times
Open all year round
Daily Jan-Feb, Nov-Dec 10.30-16.00: Mar-May, Oct 10.00-17.00
June 10.00- 18.00: July-Aug 09:30-18.00: Sept 09:30-17.00
Address
Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Causewayhead, Stirling. FK9 5LF
Tel: +44(0)1786 472140
www.nationalwallacemonument.com
After visiting Braveheart’s monument, it’s time to head over to King’s Park to see a site attributed to another famous hero. Maybe you’ve heard of him… King Arthur! Originally set up around 1630 as a royal garden, this lovely green space lays claim to a mysterious circular mound, dubbed the King’s Knot (which is supposedly older than the garden itself). It’s said that King Arthur held his court in Stirling, and that the King’s Knot may have been, at one time, none other than the legendary Round Table! King’s Park is open all year round and is free to enter.
In addition to all the great cultural and historic attractions, Stirling is renowned for being a prime shopping destination. It’s filled with enough farmer’s markets, shopping centers, specialty stores and retail arcades to please even the most zealous of shoppers!
For those looking for some of the best specialty art, fashion and food, you may want to head over to Bridge of Allan Street, while those interested in a more traditional ‘High Street’ experience should head over to Port Street. If you’re a marathon shopper, then maybe the 100 stores of the Thistles Shopping Center are a good place to start. Finally, those of Celtic origin may want to try Baker or Friars Street in hopes of finding their family tartan and other authentic Scottish items.
Well ladies and gents, with that, we’ve come to the end of another edition of the BritRail newsletter. We’ll see you all again next month, but until then, enjoy the summer! And remember, for all questions and queries concerning anything British, you can email me at AskShaun@BritRail.com. Take care everyone!
Filled under Attractions, Scotland.