Famous for its castle, a striking medieval fortress built on volcanic cliffs overlooking the River Forth, Stirling has been at the heart of Scottish history for centuries. From the Old Jail to some of Scotland’s most historic pubs, The Old Town is alive with amazing sights and architecture, while the entertainment scene is buzzing thanks to cultural institutions such as the Albert Halls, Tolbooth and the Macroberts Art Centre. Factor in a lively nightlife scene catering to students, tourists and locals alike, modern and diverse shopping centres and some fantastic local activities, including a safari park, distilleries, war monuments and more, and you’ll never be left wondering what to do in Stirling. Plus, our hotels in Stirling will keep you right where the action is in one of the best tourist destinations in Scotland.
Things to do in Stirling
Shopping
Just 100m from our Stirling City Centre hotel, The Thistles Shopping Centre is in the heart of the city and is where you’ll find more than 90 stores, including Boots, Clarks, Debenhams, H&M, Marks & Spencer, Topshop and Topman. Opened in 1977, the centre has a wide range of 13 onsite cafés and restaurants and is open daily and until 8pm on Thursdays.
For something a little more boutique, Stirling Arcade is a restored 19th-century shopping gallery. A short stroll from The Thistles Centre, it is home to nearly 20 stores and businesses selling a diverse array of items, including designer glasses, comics and lingerie, as well as a children’s clothing store, a yoga studio and several cafés and restaurants.
Getting Around
A major international airport that flies to dozens of destinations across the world, Edinburgh Airport is just 25 miles from Stirling. The journey will usually take around 45 minutes by car or the Stirling to Edinburgh airport Citylink bus, while a train journey will take around 75 minutes including several changes. Alternatively, make your journey even easier by staying at one of our hotels near Edinburgh Airport.
With seven platforms and regular services to Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Inverness and Edinburgh, Stirling Train Station is a great way to get in and out of the city. The train station is handily located in between the Old Town and the River Forth and has onsite cafés, shops and toilets.
A short walk from the train station, Stirling Bus Station is serviced by National Express and Scottish Citylink with regular departures across the region and other large Scottish cities.
Shopping in Stirling
