Things to Do in Central Scotland
Historic Tourist Attractions
Clackmannanshire Tower Houses
Within Clackmannanshire there are a collection of tower houses, dating from the 14th and 15th century. Many of the tower houses have been part of some interesting history including a host to Mary Queen of Scots, the plotting of the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715 led by the 6th Earl of Mar and many disputes over the centuries. The tower houses include Alloa Tower, Castle Campbell, Menstrie Castle, Clackmannan Tower and Sauchie Tower.
Clackmannanshire's Tower Trail takes you on a tour of Clackmannanshire's Tower Houses. Click here to view the Tower Trail visitor booklet.
Stirling Castle
Located in the heart of Stirling, Stirling Castle is one of the largest and significant castles, both historically and architecturally, in Scotland. Highlights include the Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Castle Exhibition, Regimental Museum, Great Kitchens and Tapestry Studio within the castle.
Wallace Monument
Standing tall overlooking the city of Stirling and the Forth Valley, the Wallace Monument offers visitors the captivating story of Sir William Wallace. From the top of the monument, accessed via a spiral staircase, with a total of 246 steps, offers views of Ben Lomond and The Trossachs and The Ochil Hills.
Bannockburn Heritage Centre
The Bannockburn Heritage Centre is a brand new visitor experience using 3D technology to bring the battle of Bannockburn history to life. A short walk from the heritage centre, visitors can view the historic landscape and battlefield.
Stirling Old Town Jail
Located in the heart of the Stirling’s historic old town, is the famous prison where visitors can experience how a Victorian jail operated in the 1800’s. The Victorian jail is brought to life by live actors.
Family Tourist Attractions
Blair Drummond Safari Park
Zoo and Safari Park located between Doune and Stirling in Central Scotland. Visitors to the park can drive through animal reserves, take a boat trip to Chimp Island, watch a sea lion show and much more.
The Helix and Kelpies
The Helix is a new regeneration park that connects the Forth & Clyde canal to the Eastern edge of Scotland. The park provides access to woodlands, wetlands, waterways and recreational space via a 27 km pathway network ideal for walking, running and cycling. The most spectacular feature of the park is the two unique equine structures known as The Kelpies. The structures are definitely a must see!
For more information on the Helix and Kelpies, please click here.
The Falkirk Wheel
The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat lift, connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. The attraction offers visitors boat trips, woodland and canal walks, kids play areas, a visitor centre and café.
For more information on The Falkirk Wheel, please click here.
Shopping and Theatre
Stirling has a has a good range of shopping including The Thistles Centre and the beautifully renovated Stirling Arcade with its boutique style shops and cafe. Just 20 minutes from Stirling and 10mins from Alloa is Sterling Mills Shopping Outlet Village; offering a range of high street shops selling at discount prices.
Theatre
Located in the heart of the old town of Stirling, the Tolbooth is an intimate venue for music, performance, exhibitions and arts classes. The Macrobert Art Centre within Stirling University campus offers a full programme of theatre, comedy, music and children's entertainment.
Nightlife
Stirling city centre and surrounding areas including Bridge of Allan, 10 minutes from Inglewood House offers a vibrant nightlife. Pubs, clubs and bars with DJs and a selection of traditional pubs providing quieter alternatives, with open fires and live music.