Stirling Castle
One of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, with jaw-dropping views across the Carse of Forth.
Scotland · Stirling
Stirling & Central
Top attractions, upcoming events, festivals and family activities across Stirling & Central.
About Stirling & Central
Stirling sits at Scotland's historic strategic crossroads, its castle staring down the River Forth and the Ochil Hills. The wider Central region takes in the Trossachs National Park, the Falkirk Wheel and Kelpies, the whisky and brewing town of Alloa, and the outdoor playground of Callander and Aberfoyle.
Stirling events run the full gauntlet — from castle re-enactments and Bloody Scotland crime writing festival to open-air gigs at The Kelpies and family light trails at Callander.
Top attractions in Stirling
The Kelpies & Helix Park
Andy Scott's 30-metre steel horse heads — free 24/7 access and a great family park.
Falkirk Wheel
The world's only rotating boat lift — plus boat trips, cafés and a splash play park.
The National Wallace Monument
A Victorian tower marking William Wallace's victory at Stirling Bridge, with panoramic viewing platform.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
Scotland's first national park sits on Stirling's doorstep.
Doune Castle
The medieval stronghold used as Winterfell, Castle Leoch and countless film locations.
Upcoming events in Stirling
See allNo upcoming events currently listed for Stirling & Central. Check back soon or browse all Scottish events.
Festivals in Stirling
Bloody Scotland
SeptemberScotland's international crime writing festival, based in Stirling.
Stirling Highland Games
AugustA friendly city-centre Games weekend.
Kelpies Light Trail
November / DecemberWinter illuminations around Helix Park.
Doune the Rabbit Hole
JulyFamily-friendly music festival in the Stirlingshire countryside.
Family activities in Stirling
Ideas for families visiting Stirling & Central — most work rain or shine and pair well with the events listed above.
- Blair Drummond Safari Park
- Falkirk Wheel boat trips
- Splash play at Helix Park
- Go Ape Aberfoyle
- Callander Meadows and cycle hire
- Alloa Tower and Kelliebank riverside
When to visit Stirling
Spring is a fine time to walk the Ochil Hills. Summer delivers open-air gigs at The Kelpies and Doune the Rabbit Hole.
Autumn brings Bloody Scotland to the city, and winter offers the Kelpies Light Trail and ceilidhs at the Albert Halls.
Popular venues in Stirling
All venuesWe're still building our venue directory for Stirling & Central. Browse all Scottish venues.
Explore Stirling by category
Curated landing pages for the biggest event types in Stirling.
Local guides
Stirling — Frequently asked questions
Can you visit The Kelpies for free?
Yes — Helix Park is open 24/7 and free. Guided tours inside the sculptures carry a small ticket price.
Is Stirling a good day trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow?
Yes — trains from both cities take around 45 minutes.
What's the best way to see the Trossachs?
Base yourself in Callander or Aberfoyle for easy access to Loch Katrine, Ben A'an and the Duke's Pass.
When is Bloody Scotland?
The festival takes over Stirling for a long weekend every September.