The Unicorn Café at Stirling Castle is a delightful dining option for visitors, offering a range of hot and cold food and drinks in a picturesque setting. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a hearty meal, or a refreshing beverage, this café has something to satisfy every palate.
Opening Hours and Accessibility
The Unicorn Café operates on a seasonal schedule, with extended hours during the peak tourist season. From April 1 to September 30, the café is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, with takeaway service available from 5 pm. During the off-season, from October 1 to March 31, the café is open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, with takeaway service from 4 pm.
The café is fully accessible, with baby change facilities, disabled access, and an accessible toilet available for visitors.
Outdoor Seating and Stunning Views
One of the highlights of the Unicorn Café is its outdoor seating area, which includes a rooftop patio that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the iconic Wallace Monument. Visitors can enjoy their meals and drinks while taking in the picturesque scenery, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind during a visit to Stirling Castle.
Menu and Specialities
The Unicorn Café’s menu features a variety of hot and cold food and drinks, including Scottish specialities and kid-friendly options. While the menu is subject to change, you can expect to find a range of soups, sandwiches, salads, hot meals, and sweet treats, as well as a selection of hot and cold beverages.
Some of the café’s signature dishes and specialities include:
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties | A traditional Scottish dish featuring haggis, turnips, and potatoes |
| Cullen Skink | A creamy Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions |
| Shortbread | A classic Scottish biscuit, often served with tea or coffee |
| Irn-Bru | A popular Scottish soft drink with a unique citrus-based flavor |
The café also offers a range of kid-friendly options, including packed lunch boxes and smaller portions of some of the main menu items.
Awards and Accolades
The Unicorn Café has earned recognition for its family-friendly atmosphere and high-quality offerings. The café has achieved the Kids In Museums Family Cafe Standard, which is developed in partnership with Benugo, the company that operates the café. This standard rates museum cafés on various factors, including facilities, website information, menu choices, sustainability, and cost.
Facilities and Amenities
In addition to the outdoor seating and stunning views, the Unicorn Café offers several other amenities and facilities for visitors:
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Baby change facilities
- Disabled access and accessible toilet
These features help to ensure that the café is a comfortable and convenient option for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Conclusion
The Unicorn Café at Stirling Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the historic site. With its charming atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and unbeatable views, the café provides a perfect respite from the castle’s rich history and stunning architecture. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, the Unicorn Café is sure to leave a lasting impression on your Stirling Castle experience.
References:
- https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/stirling-castle/shop-eat/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g191266-d7259214-Reviews-Stirling_Castle_Unicorn_Cafe-Stirling_Scotland.html
- https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/stirling/stirlingcastle/cafeshops.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g191266-c8-Stirling_Scotland.html
- https://www.benugo.com/sites/cafes/unicorn-cafe/