1. Arrival in Stirling – A Step Into Scotland’s Historic Heart
Stirling had always been on my list of must-visit places in Scotland. This ancient city, often called the “Gateway to the Highlands,” is steeped in history, legends, and breathtaking landscapes. Upon arriving at Stirling Railway Station, the crisp Scottish air carried the echoes of the past, promising an unforgettable experience.
With Stirling Castle as the focal point of the visit, the choice of accommodation had to match the historical essence of the trip. After much research, I decided to stay at Hotel Colessio, a grand, historic boutique hotel situated right in the heart of Stirling, just a short walk from the castle. The hotel is located at 33 Spittal Street, Stirling FK8 1DU, Scotland, and its Victorian grandeur perfectly complements the city’s medieval charm. Booking was straightforward through Booking.com, where a deluxe double room for two nights cost £320, including breakfast.
2. Checking into Hotel Colessio – A Victorian Gem
Hotel Colessio immediately impressed with its stately white façade and elegant columns, standing as a testament to Stirling’s rich past. The warm welcome at the reception set the tone for a luxurious stay. The hotel’s interior blended period features with modern luxury—crystal chandeliers, high ceilings, and plush velvet furnishings added to the opulence.
The deluxe room had all the comforts expected from a high-end boutique hotel: a king-sized bed, a spacious marble bathroom with a rainfall shower, and a stunning view of Stirling’s skyline. After freshening up, a drink at the hotel’s stylish bar was the perfect way to relax before heading out for the evening.
3. First Impressions of Stirling Castle
The walk to Stirling Castle from the hotel took just ten minutes. The sight of the castle perched dramatically atop Castle Hill was awe-inspiring. The sheer scale of its stone walls, turrets, and towers made it evident why Stirling Castle played such a significant role in Scotland’s history.
Entrance tickets cost £17.50 per adult, booked in advance through Historic Environment Scotland’s website to avoid queues. The castle gates led into an expansive courtyard, where costumed guides shared stories of the past. The air smelled of damp stone, aged wood, and the lingering essence of a thousand battles.
4. Exploring the Castle Grounds – Walking in the Footsteps of Kings
The Great Hall – A Royal Banquet Hall
The first major highlight was The Great Hall, a majestic space with a high wooden ceiling and massive fireplaces. Painted a striking ochre yellow to resemble its original 16th-century appearance, it was easy to imagine grand feasts held by King James IV and Mary, Queen of Scots. The wooden minstrels’ gallery added an extra layer of authenticity, as music once filled this grand hall during royal celebrations.
The Royal Palace – A Glimpse into Renaissance Splendor
Entering The Royal Palace, the interiors were adorned with intricate tapestries and ornate ceilings. The Stirling Heads Gallery, displaying carved oak portraits of Scotland’s most powerful figures, was particularly mesmerizing. Each room had costumed historians who passionately recounted tales of intrigue, betrayal, and power struggles.
One standout moment was stepping into Mary, Queen of Scots’ former chambers. The thought of the young queen once residing in this very space was surreal. The sense of history was palpable, and every stone seemed to whisper secrets of the past.
The Chapel Royal – A Place of Majesty and Worship
The Chapel Royal, where James VI was baptized, featured stunning frescoes and gold-leaf detailing. This sacred space resonated with the echoes of royal ceremonies and whispered prayers of centuries past.
The Castle Vaults and Kitchens – Daily Life in the Castle
The lower levels of the castle revealed a different side of history. The reconstructed castle kitchens brought to life the hustle of medieval cooking, complete with wax figures of servants preparing grand feasts. The storerooms displayed barrels, sacks of grain, and meats hanging from wooden beams, offering insight into the enormous scale of castle life.
5. Walking the Castle Walls – Breathtaking Views of Stirling
Stepping onto the castle ramparts, the panoramic views over the River Forth, the Wallace Monument, and the rolling hills of the Trossachs were nothing short of breathtaking. The King’s Knot, an ancient earthwork thought to be a royal garden, lay below in an almost perfect geometric pattern. The legendary Battle of Bannockburn site, where Robert the Bruce secured Scotland’s independence in 1314, was visible in the distance.
6. A Royal Feast – Dining at The Portcullis
After hours of exploring the castle, hunger set in, and a short walk down the hill led to The Portcullis, a historic pub housed in a former schoolhouse at Castle Wynd, Stirling FK8 1EG. The traditional Scottish menu featured hearty options like haggis, neeps & tatties (£12.50) and venison stew (£15.95). The pub’s cozy interior, with its wooden beams and dim candlelight, made it the ideal place to unwind. A pint of locally brewed Stirling Bridge Ale (£5.50) completed the meal.
7. Exploring Stirling by Night
Walking back to Hotel Colessio, the city took on a different charm under the glow of old-fashioned street lamps. The cobbled streets of Stirling Old Town, lined with historic buildings, exuded a timeless beauty. A stop at Molly Malones, an Irish pub, added a final touch to the evening, with live folk music filling the air.
8. Morning at the Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum
The next day, before leaving Stirling, there was time to visit The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum, a hidden gem located at 40 Albert Pl, Stirling FK8 2RQ. This small museum showcased Stirling’s local history, from medieval times to the present. The highlight was the oldest football in the world, dating back to the 16th century and found within Stirling Castle’s walls.
9. Departure from Stirling – A City That Stays With You
Packing up at Hotel Colessio, there was a lingering reluctance to leave this historic city. Stirling Castle had provided a window into Scotland’s past, while the hotel’s old-world charm had made the stay even more immersive. As the train pulled away from Stirling Station, the silhouette of the castle against the sky was a final reminder of the magic that this city holds.
