The Royalty, Merchants and People of Stirling: An Audio Tour

Duration1h 30m - 2h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Stirling’s Old Town grew around Stirling Castle, the mighty fortress that’s perched majestically atop an extinct volcano. On this self-guided audio tour of the Old Town, I’ll tell you how it became a flashpoint in Scotland’s long struggle for independence and religious freedom. The tour starts at the statue of Robert the Bruce on the castle esplanade, with its panoramic views over the meandering River Forth. You’ll wind your way through the historic Old Town, passing Renaissance townhouses like Argyll’s Lodging, and medieval churches which tell the story of a town that grew around its mighty fortress. As you stroll you’ll learn about the lives of wealthy merchants like John Cowane, visit the old Tolbooth where rebels were executed, and see how the town evolved through the centuries. The tour ends at the Golden Lion Hotel, where Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns once carved controversial verses on a window pane.

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour

What to expect

Stirling Castle
Pass by

Marvel at this magnificent fortress perched atop an extinct volcanic crag, dominating the landscape for miles around. Discover why this strategic stronghold was called "the brooch that holds Scotland together" and shaped centuries of Scottish history.
Robert the Bruce Statue
Pass by

Begin your journey at this striking bronze statue on the castle esplanade, depicting Scotland's legendary warrior king. Enjoy panoramic views across the meandering River Forth and the battlefield where Bruce secured Scotland's independence.
Church of the Holy Rude
Pass by

Step inside this medieval church where the infant King James VI was crowned in Scotland's shortest royal coronation ceremony. Experience the atmosphere of this active congregation that has held services continuously since 1129.
Mar's Wark
Pass by

Admire the ornate Renaissance facade of this ruined townhouse, built in 1570 by the Earl of Mar, regent to the young King James VI. Learn how this once-magnificent palace reflects the wealth and ambition of Scotland's most powerful nobles.
Argyll's Lodging
Pass by

Pass this stunning 17th-century Renaissance mansion, considered Scotland's finest surviving townhouse of its era. Explore how this aristocratic residence showcases the lifestyle of Scotland's nobility during the reign of King Charles I.
Mercat Cross
Pass by

Walk around this historic market cross where royal proclamations were announced and dishonest merchants faced public punishment. Discover how this spot served as the heart of Stirling's commercial and civic life for centuries.
Pass by

Marvel at this imposing 1705 building that served as the town's courthouse and jail for two centuries. Learn about the religious rebels and criminals who were tried, imprisoned, and sometimes executed within these walls.
Stirling Old Town Jail
Pass by

Explore this Victorian prison that tells the story of 19th-century criminal justice and prison reform. Experience what life was like for inmates through the jail's preserved cells and interactive exhibits.
Pass by

Pause at this solemn monument commemorating the Presbyterian Covenanters who died for their religious beliefs in the 17th century. Discover the story of Scotland's bitter religious conflicts and the price paid for freedom of worship.
Rob Roy McGregor Statue
Pass by

Admire this statue honouring Scotland's famous outlaw and folk hero, who became a symbol of Highland resistance. Learn how this 18th-century cattle rustler and fighter was transformed into a romantic legend.
Pass by

Pass this elegant building that once served as the town's high school before its conversion into a luxury hotel. Discover the stories of notable former pupils who walked these halls during its educational era.
Pass by

End your tour at this historic coaching inn where Scotland's national poet Robert Burns once stayed and carved controversial verses on a window pane. Experience the atmosphere of an 18th-century tavern where literary legends were made.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This tour starts at Statue of Robert the Bruce. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

Tour ends at The Golden Lion Hotel.

Additional information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

From

$9.99 per person

Check availability & book

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Instant confirmation
You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.

Operated by VoiceMap Audio Tours · Booked through Viator

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