City Drinking | Stirling
Stirling has only been awarded city status since the Millennium, but, although smaller than its counterparts, it has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike.
In days long ago, it was the scene of heroic battles fought and won against the English under the leadership of William Wallace at Stirling Bridge and Robert the Bruce at nearby Bannockburn. The Wallace Monument graces the skyline in the distance, perhaps adding to the sense of history that still pervades the winding, cobbled streets leading to the castle. It’s a steep climb, yet there are lots of quirky bars and inns to stop for a breather and a pint of best ale en route.
Bridge of Allan, a former spa town, just a 10-minute drive north of Stirling, is also frequented for eating and drinking, particularly by the student population, who live and study at the nearby university campus that enjoys a picturesque setting around a loch. En route, it is worth stopping off at the infamous Birds & Bees at Causewayhead, if only to have a seat on the stools that are made to resemble sheep in this converted farmstead!
Others to try include:
Portcullis, Castle Wynd
The Tolbooth Café Bar, Jail Wynd
The Settle Inn, 91 St Mary’s Wynd
The Porter’s Bar, 63 Port St
Pivo, 11-13 Corn Exchange
Birds & Bees, Causewayhead