STIRLING CASTLE

Key To The Kingdom

One of the largest and most historically important fortifications in Scotland, Stirling Castle has served as an important royal residence as well as a formidable military obstacle. Discover the lavish Renaissance court of the Stewart kings and queens, or gaze out over the landscape defended by Wallace and Bruce.

WALLACE MONUMENT

‘For Liberty’

One of Scotland’s most distinctive landmarks, the Wallace Monument stands atop Abbey Craig, the hill from which, on 9 September 1297, the great Guardian of Scotland William Wallace gazed down on the occupying English army of John De Warrene, Earl of Surrey. Two days later, Wallace’s much smaller army would comprehensively rout the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.

The interior of the tower hosts a museum telling the story of Wallace, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Also nearby is the historic battlefield of Bannockburn, where a generation later the army of Robert the Bruce would finally regain independence for Scotland. The battlefield includes a state of the art visitor centre, and even allows you to refight the battle electronically, taking the place of Bruce or his opponent, Edward II of England.

KELPIES & FALKIRK WHEEL

Stunning Modern Art

To the south of Stirling is the Union Canal and the former industrial centre of Falkirk, home of Andy Scott’s spectacular Kelpies statue. Standing 30m tall above the canal, the statues commemorate the horse-powered heritage of the area as well as paying tribute to a mythical water beast.

Nearby, take a ride on the Falkirk Wheel, a dramatic one-of-a-kind rotating lift raising canal boats 24 metres to the next section of the canal.

LOCH LOMOND

By Yon Bonnie Banks

Possibly Scotland’s best-known natural landmark, Loch Lomond is the UK’s largest freshwater lake by surface area. Straddling the border between highlands and lowlands, the loch is surrounded by dramatic scenery.

Visit the charming shoreline village of Luss, shop at Lomond Shores, hike the West Highland Way, or get closer to the loch by taking a boat trip.

THE TROSSACHS

Romantic Landscapes

To the east of Loch Lomond lies the Trossachs, a region of outstanding natural beauty that has inspired painters, writers and musicians for centuries. Follow in their footsteps by striking out into the hills, take in the spectacular views from the winding Duke’s Pass, or perhaps take a cruise on Loch Katrine on a historic steamship.

THE NATIONAL PARK

Munros And Market Towns

The larger Loch Lomond and the Trossachs national park has much more to offer. Visit the charming market towns of Aberfoyle or Callander, hunt down the famous outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor in Balquhiddar, or check off some of the 21 Munros (mountains of more than 3000ft) in the park.