For castles touring enthusiasts, getting to Stirling Castle via bus is a convenient and hassle-free option. The castle, perched atop a volcanic crag, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history and architecture.
Stirling Sightseer Bus: Your Gateway to Stirling Castle
The Stirling Sightseer bus is the primary mode of public transportation for accessing Stirling Castle. This service operates on a regular schedule, running every 20 minutes from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm, Monday to Saturday. The bus stops directly outside the castle’s esplanade, providing easy access to the main entrance.
Route and Ticket Information
The Stirling Sightseer bus offers an all-day, hop-on hop-off service, allowing visitors to explore various attractions in Stirling, including the National Wallace Monument and the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre. Tickets can be purchased on board or through the Midland Bluebird app, and they are valid for 24 hours, with one full journey lasting approximately 50 minutes.
Park and Ride Service: Convenient Parking and Access
For those driving to Stirling Castle, the park and ride service provides a hassle-free option. The park and ride facility is located off junction 10 of the M9, with the postcode FK9 4TW for in-car satellite navigation systems. The service runs regularly through the city center and up to the old town of Stirling, with buses departing every 20 minutes from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm, Monday to Saturday.
Parking and Accessibility
The park and ride service offers a convenient parking solution, with the cost being £4.00 for up to four hours. Historic Scotland members can take advantage of a discounted rate of £2.00. The esplanade at Stirling Castle also has a large tarmac parking area with five accessible spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis. Wheelchairs are also available for use on the same basis.
Train Station and Walking: An Alternative Route
For those arriving by train, Stirling train station is within walking distance of Stirling Castle, although the route is uphill all the way. The Explore Stirling Mobile App provides a free walking map with an interactive route from the railway station to the castle, complete with narration by local expert Murray Cook.
Additional Information and Contact Details
- Cost: Car parking at Stirling Castle costs £4.00 for up to four hours, with a discounted rate of £2.00 for Historic Scotland Members.
- Accessibility: The esplanade has a large tarmac parking area with five accessible spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis. Wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis.
Contact Information
- Stirling Castle: 01768 450000 or ticketing@hes.scot
- Stirling Bus Station: 01786 404040
References
- Good Journey. (n.d.). Getting to Stirling Castle Car-free. Retrieved from https://www.goodjourney.org.uk/attractions/stirling-castle/
- Rome2rio. (n.d.). Edinburgh → Stirling Castle: 6 ways to travel via train, bus, rideshare, taxi or car. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Edinburgh/Stirling-Castle
- Historic Environment Scotland. (n.d.). Stirling Castle: Getting here. Retrieved from https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/stirling-castle/getting-here/
- Your Stirling. (n.d.). Getting Around Stirling. Retrieved from https://www.yourstirling.com/plan-your-visit/getting-around-stirling/
- Historic Environment Scotland. (n.d.). Stirling Castle: Access. Retrieved from https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/stirling-castle/access/