Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most historically significant and spectacularly located castles, offers a variety of trails and walks that cater to different interests and fitness levels. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking breathtaking views, Stirling Castle’s trails have something for everyone.
Stirling Castle and Gowanhill Walk
This walk takes you through the old heart of Stirling City, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The route includes paths across the hills, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Distance: Not specified
- Grade: Good paths and pavements; fair amount of ascent
- Public Transport: Bus or train to Stirling
- Start: Stirling City Centre / rail station
- Terrain: Good paths and pavements; fair amount of ascent
- Features: Old heart of the city, paths across hills, history, and superb views
Stirling Castle Circular Walk
This 4.3 km circular walk takes you through the woodland on the hill slope, offering breathtaking views of Stirling Castle, the Beheading Stone, the River Forth, the Wallace Monument, and the Ochil Hills.
- Distance: 4.3 km
- Elevation: 116 m
- Features: Woodland on the hill slope, Stirling Castle, Beheading Stone, River Forth, Wallace Monument, and Ochil Hills views
- Start: Stirling railway station
- Terrain: Good paths and pavements; fair amount of ascent
- Tips: Stay on the trail to avoid local plants that poke and sting
Stirling Castle Routes for Walking and Hiking
Stirling Castle offers a variety of walking and hiking routes, each with its own unique features and attractions. From the grand celebrations and sculptures to the beautiful gardens, there’s something for everyone to explore.
- Location: Mercat Cross, Stirling, Scotland
- Recommended by: 72 out of 74 hikers
- Features: Stirling Castle, grand celebrations, sculptures, and beautiful gardens
- Opening Hours:
- April 1 to September 30: 9:30 am to 6 pm
- October 1 to March 31: 9:30 am to 5 pm
- New Year’s Day (January 1): 11 am to 5 pm
- Last Entry: 45 minutes before closing
- Café Hours: Unicorn Café open year-round; Pentice open-air café open from April to September
Stirling Castle Circular – AllTrails
This 4.3 km circular route on AllTrails is an easy hike, perfect for walking, running, or hiking with your furry companion (on a leash).
- Distance: 4.3 km
- Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Features: Easy route, hiking, running, and walking; dogs allowed on a leash
- Tips: Enjoy solitude during quieter times of day
Stirling Castle Walk
This 2-mile (3.3 km) walk takes you through the old town walls, offering stunning views of the Campsie Fells, Ben Lomond, Ben Ledi, Stuc a’Chroin, and Ben Vorlich.
- Distance: 2 miles (3.3 km)
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Features: Old town walls, views of Campsie Fells, Ben Lomond, Ben Ledi, Stuc a’Chroin, and Ben Vorlich
- Start: Dumbarton Road at the Allanpark turning
- Terrain: Well-surfaced paths, woods, scrub, and grasslands; some steps and steep sections
- Tips: Take time to appreciate the views and visit the library for free leaflets on community paths and walks
Tips and Recommendations
- Best Times to Avoid Crowds: Early morning or late afternoon
- Free Walking Trails: Yes, several options available around Stirling Castle
- Cost: Varies depending on the trail and attractions visited
- Directory: Stirling Castle, Mercat Cross, Stirling, Scotland
- Phone Number: Not specified
- Hours: Vary depending on the trail and attractions visited
- Rates: Varies depending on the trail and attractions visited
- Value: Highly recommended for its historical significance, scenic views, and variety of trails
References
- https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/fife-stirling/stirling-castle.shtml
- https://besthike.com/2024/06/06/stirling-castle-circular-walk-scotland/
- https://www.komoot.com/highlight/208526
- https://www.alltrails.com/trail/scotland/stirling/stirling-castle-circular-walk
- http://www.instirling.com/walks/stirling_castle_walk.html