Stirling Castle is one of the great highlights of Scotland’s colourful historic landscape. With a history dating back at least to the 1100s, it has been both a crucial fortress – guarding a main route between Highlands and Lowlands – and a major royal residence.

Its strategic importance during the Wars of Independence led to multiple sieges, and it continued in its military role right into the present century.

Stirling was a favourite home of monarchs of the Stewart/Stuart dynasty, and it was here that they commissioned the Great Hall, Palace and Chapel Royal, three of Scotland’s finest buildings of the 1500s. The Great Hall and Palace have been restored and recreated, allowing visitors unique insight into the grand lifestyles and decor of the Scottish Renaissance.

Historic Scotland is part of Historic Environment Scotland, the lead public body established to investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment.