Things to do in Stirling, Scotland: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours

April 9, 2022 Darleen Reid

Enjoy a compelling glimpse into the epic history of Stirling and its surrounding area by going back in time at Stirling Castle, the National Wallace Monument, and the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre. Then explore other family-friendly attractions and the vibrant, independent boutiques around the Old Town and the Victorian Stirling Arcade. And be sure to budget time to visit majestic Loch Lomond – Britain’s largest body of water – and the Trossachs National Park, just a short ride away.
Restaurants in Stirling

1. Central Scotland Driving Tour - Stirlingshire (Private)

Monarch Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Discover whats beyond the city walls on your very own full day private tour of central Scotland in our Land Rover Discovery. See the castles, the lochs, the hills and even some of the filming locations that makes Scotland the stunning country it is today. All our tours can be personalised to your needs and be as action packed or relaxed as you want.

Inclusions: All guiding fees, All vehicle costs including parking (Parking at Midhope castle is not included), Hotel pickup and drop-off , Air-conditioned vehicle, Child Seats (must be pre-arranged), Land Rover Discovery for up to 6 adults, Bottled water

Exclusions: Bottled water is available in the car free of charge (all other food and drink is not included within the tour), Gratuities, Entry to the sites are not included (Castles, Distilleries etc)

Reviewed By janinaw574

we booked an online tour with Chris through Edinburgh. It was really fantastic, thank you! Chris is very knowledgeable and passionate about this beautiful city, it was almost like being there in person. Cannot recommend him enough.

2. Virtual Live Private Outlander Tour

Linlithgow Palace, Kirkgate, Linlithgow EH49 7AL, UK Mary's Meanders
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 9 reviews

Dreaming of Scotland? Join us on our new Virtual Outlander Tour of Scotland. Based on our Classic Outlander tour, it will come to you live, via Zoom. Enjoy the Outlander experience as if you were here in with us. 3 great reasons to join us Join us from your own home on a virtual tour of beautiful Outlander locations in Scotland with award-winning guides. It’s the same tour we gave Outlander author, Diana Gabaldon. Been on a tour before? Relive it with us and share your favourite moments. This would also be a great way of organising a meet up with a group of Outlander friends. Get a group together and we will set up a personal tour just for you. Get in touch.

Inclusions: Private Virtual Classic Outlander Tour with a tour guide

Exclusions: This a virtual tour via Zoom from the comfort of your own home., Gratuities

Reviewed By KudlyKoala

Emma at Mary’s Meanders is Amazing! All our interactions with these operators has been exceptional. Nothing is too much trouble, prompt response to all emails. All our requests were met, highly organised group of people.....Super Service. Highly recommended if you are after a personal experience. Many thanks all the way from Australia.

3. 6 Day Outer Hebrides & Isle of Skye Tour including 'Hogwarts Express' Ride

Highland Explorer Tours, 60 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TB, UK Highland Explorer Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 5 reviews

Join us on an unforgettable journey across the Highlands and Islands, where we discover some of Scotland’s most iconic destinations, as well as the hidden gems; from the world-famous Loch Ness to the remote corners of the Hebrides. We explore by land and sea, from beach to battlefield, castle to coastal town; where stunning scenery, ancient monuments, and Scotch whisky are guaranteed. Capture treasured photographs of the magical Isle of Skye and Glencoe, while we keep you entertained with myths, legends, and tales from our rich history. Venture beyond the classic tourist trail on this extended adventure and prepare to fall in love with our beautiful country.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Local Scottish Guide, 5 nights B&B Accommodation, Breakfast Daily, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, Abhainn Dearg whisky distillery, All ferry's, Jacobite Steam Train Trip, Transport in an air conditioned midi-coach, Breakfast

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By 180rebecar

Despite Covid-19 this tour company makes us feel very safe, they had sanitisers and a considerable social distancing inside the tour bus. Was the best way to see the highlands and their incredible landscape, our tour guide Caitlin was incredible, knowledgeable, full of energy, kind, and happy, if you take this tour make sure you ask for her as she did this experience much more memorable. The visit to Loch Ness was fantastic we had the boat trip there also a must to do!

4. Bannockburn Battlefield (Outside Tour operated by Freedom Tour Today)

The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, Glasgow Road, Whins Of Milton, Stirling FK7 0LJ, UK Freedom Tour Today
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 12 reviews

Freedom Tour Today was set up to welcome visitors to Stirling. Our priority is to give a warm welcome and to thank visitors for taking the time to remember Robert the Bruce, James Douglas and all those who fell at Bannockburn. The tour is based outdoor and covers the Scottish Wars of Independence, the Battle in 1314, the aftermath up to the current day. It had always amazed me the number of tourists that arrive, spend less than 10 minutes at the site of Scotland's greatest battle and then depart Bannockburn. I felt the story of the battle, why it was fought and how the Scot's were victorious deserved to be told. I shall entertain you with stories of the main characters and the small folk who influenced and took part in the battle. We also do a Stirling Bridge tour, the scene of William Wallace’s greatest victory. Freedom Tour Today is the perfect way to welcome visitors to the area and learn more about why so many people hold these historic sites and Scotland dear to their heart.

Inclusions: Tour guide

Exclusions:

Reviewed By 426damienk

Really interesting and informative tour about the Battle of Stirling bridge with Steve and his dog Mollie. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone interested in Scottish history or if you just know about the battle from films like Braveheart.

5. The Ultimate Whisky Experience from Edinburgh

521 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PE, UK Timberbush Tours Edinburgh - Day Tours
Excellent
96%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 35 reviews

Take a trip into Whisky paradise on our 1 day Ultimate Whisky Experience tour from Edinburgh. Visit two distilleries; Dewar's and Deanston; view stunning scenery across Loch Lubnaig and enjoy a relaxing stop in the village of Killin on this Scottish Whisky trail

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide

Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks

Reviewed By 167mahmoudm

A fantastic day with Neil our tour guide. A PLENTY of information in attractive way. Ask to go the trip with him. You deserve a trip like this with a fantastic tour guide like Neil. We saw 7 lochs, 4 castles, and two villages. Thank you Neil

6. 3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh

Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, UK The Hairy Coo
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 222 reviews

Scotland is a big place and with so many amazing places to explore you’ll be right to be excited about your 3 day Isle of Skye, Inverness & Highlands tour. With a guarantee of discovering new and interesting things and seeing breathtaking scenery and landscapes around every turn. You’ll see why so many movie locations were based and filmed here in Scotland, with views that inspired the likes of Harry Potter (Glenfinnan Viaduct) and James Bond (Glencoe), and more. You’ll be spoilt for choice for getting that perfect picture, especially in the Isle of Skye where many of Scotland’s myths and legends come from. See mountains created by giants, enchanted waters that will give you eternal youth, and hear songs of the faerie folk in the wind. This is a tour that will fill you with joy and leave you with a feeling that can only come from being truly immersed in the moment - something truly priceless. Don’t just take our word for it, check out our reviews!

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Accommodation is not included, Backpackers/Youth Hostel Dorm Bed (£25 per person per night), Bed & Breakfast/Guesthouse Double/Twin Room (£90 to £100 per person per night), Bed & Breakfast/Guesthouse Single Room (£55 to £80 per person per night), If you wish, you may BOOK YOUR OWN ACCOMMODATION in Inverness for 2 nights. Please advise the operator if you wish to do this and inform them of the name/address.

Reviewed By iswrt

Going on this tour is one of the best decisions I have made. I was quite nervous to begin with as I usually travel alone but our tour guide John made us all feel welcome very quick. All of the stops and sights were so beautiful and like nothing I have seen before. The people on the tour were also very kind. Highly recommend!

7. 2-Day Inverness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

Waterloo Place, Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh, UK Heart of Scotland Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 145 reviews

Join this small group tour for a magical two day escape to the Highlands. Traveling through spectacular scenery, this tour is the perfect way to see Scotland and many of her highlights. These include stops at Doune Castle, Glen Coe, Glenfinnan Viaduct (April - October only) and Loch Ness. Overnight is in the bustling Highland capital of Inverness followed by visits to Culloden Battlefield, prehistoric standing stones, Pitlochry (optional whisky distillery tour) and a riverside walk at Dunkeld.

Inclusions: Small-group tour - 13 passengers or less, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Driver/guide, Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes mini coach

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Attraction Entrance Fees, Accommodation: See the Additional Info section below to select your preferred accommodation choice

Reviewed By EmJo

23 October 2020. Almost everything is so good, but Glencoe stood out due to its natural beauty. We were on the foot of the mountains. I highly recommend this tour to everyone!! Keith was our tourguide and driver. Very professional. :)

8. Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky Day Trip from Edinburgh

Deacon's House Cafe, 304 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, UK The Hairy Coo
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 89 reviews

Travel through the heartland of Scotland, exploring some of the most important historical sites in Scottish history on your 1 Day Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky tour. With more time off the bus you’ll activate all the senses, the smell of fresh Scottish air, the touch of stone on castles hundreds of years old, the sound Scottish music and stories told by your Driver Guide, and sights of some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. This tour is a treat for fans of Game of Thrones, Outlander and Monty Python, as your stops allow you to explore the great halls and towers found in these movies and shows. If you’re looking to embrace Scottish culture and history, look no further because you’ve found your tour.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Driver/guide, Live commentary onboard, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, Tour takes place on a 29-seater air-conditioned mini-coach

Exclusions: Optional entrance fee to Stirling Castle (£14.50 for over-16s, £8.70 for under 16s), Optional entrance fee to Doune Castle (£9 for over 16s, £7.20 for under-16s), Optional Deanston Whisky Distillery Tour (£10 for over-18s, £5 for under-18s), Food and drinks, Gratuities, No WiFi or bathrooms onboard, although stops are every 30-60 minutes

Reviewed By iswrt

Going on this tour is one of the best decisions I have made. I was quite nervous to begin with as I usually travel alone but our tour guide John made us all feel welcome very quick. All of the stops and sights were so beautiful and like nothing I have seen before. The people on the tour were also very kind. Highly recommend!

9. Stirling Castle and Whisky Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

Waterloo Place, Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh, UK Heart of Scotland Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.8 based on 331 reviews

Join this small group tour (maximum 16 passengers) and follow in the footsteps of great Scottish heroes on this historic and scenic trip into the Scottish heartlands. Enjoy a day with at least 5 fabulous stops including Stirling Castle, whisky tour and tasting at the Glengoyne Distillery and a scenic drive through the Highlands to the legendary Loch Lomond.

Inclusions: Live commentary on board, Local guide, Driver/guide, Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes mini-coach

Exclusions: All entrance fees, Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By EmJo

23 October 2020. Almost everything is so good, but Glencoe stood out due to its natural beauty. We were on the foot of the mountains. I highly recommend this tour to everyone!! Keith was our tourguide and driver. Very professional. :)

10. The Outlander, Palaces & Jacobites Experience from Edinburgh

521-523 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PE, UK Timberbush Tours Edinburgh - Day Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.8 based on 178 reviews

Enjoy a one day tour visiting filming locations of the award-winning TV series, Outlander. Visit castles, palaces and mansions. Explore Linlithgow Palace, Outlander's Wentworth Prison; see Blackness Castle, the Headquarters of Black Jack Randall, and explore the Royal Burgh of Culross, Claire's herb garden; and many more!

Inclusions: Driver/guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Entry to attractions

Reviewed By 167mahmoudm

A fantastic day with Neil our tour guide. A PLENTY of information in attractive way. Ask to go the trip with him. You deserve a trip like this with a fantastic tour guide like Neil. We saw 7 lochs, 4 castles, and two villages. Thank you Neil

TAGS

Share on FacebookTweet about this on TwitterShare on LinkedInPin on PinterestShare on Google+Email this to someoneShare on VkontakteBookmark

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.