Stirling is a historical city in Scotland with many great walks to explore. Whether you’re looking for a nice stroll or a challenging hike, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, I’m going to highlight 15 of the best walks in Stirling, from the Battle of Bannockburn Heritage Trail to the River Forth & Touch Estuary Walk.
I’ll give you a brief overview of each route so you can decide which one is best for you.
So grab your hiking boots and let’s go explore some of the best walks in Stirling.
The Battle of Bannockburn Heritage Trail
Take a tour of the historic Battle of Bannockburn site and relive the heroic victory of Robert the Bruce with the Battle of Bannockburn Heritage Trail!
This two-mile trail is located near Stirling, Scotland and takes you through the famous battlefield. You’ll be able to view the site where Robert the Bruce famously won a victory against the English and secured Scottish independence.
Not only will you get to see the battle site, but you’ll also get to explore the nearby area like the Bannockburn Heritage Centre and the nearby Abbey Craig. Along the way, you’ll also get to learn more about the battle with helpful signs and audio tours.
You’ll be able to take in the scenery and learn about the history of the area all at once. This trail is an amazing experience for anyone interested in Scottish history and the legacy of Robert the Bruce.
The Wallace Monument Walk
Experience the stunning views from the Wallace Monument, a stunning 220ft sandstone tower perched atop Abbey Craig hill. The monument was built to commemorate William Wallace, the Scottish hero who fought for Scotland’s independence in the 13th century.
As you walk up the hill, you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the Stirling countryside, including the Carse of Stirling, the Ochil Hills, and the Campsie Fells.
When you reach the monument, you will be able to take a tour of the interior to learn more about William Wallace and Scotland’s history. The monument itself is a great example of Gothic Revival architecture, featuring intricate carvings and stained glass windows.
You can even climb to the top of the tower for an even more stunning view of the surrounding area.
The Wallace Monument Walk is an excellent way to experience the beauty of Scotland while learning about its history.
Abbey Craig Walk
Descend the 220ft sandstone tower of the Wallace Monument and explore the Abbey Craig Walk, a scenic path with sweeping views of the Stirling countryside.
Starting from the foot of the Wallace Monument, the Abbey Craig Walk weaves through the surrounding rolling hills and meadows. The path is marked with way-markers and crosses several bridges, making it easy to navigate.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Stirling Castle, the Forth Valley, and the Ochil Hills. The path is mostly flat, making it suitable for hikers and walkers alike.
The walk is just under 5 miles in length, and can be completed in a couple of hours, depending on the pace you choose.
Once you reach the top, take a moment to appreciate the spectacular views of the Ochil Hills and the Forth Valley. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a red kite soaring overhead.
The Abbey Craig Walk is a great way to explore Stirling’s beautiful countryside and take in some of its stunning views.
The Stirling Castle Walk
Explore the exquisite beauty of the Stirling Castle Walk, offering an unforgettable journey through history and nature.
Begin the journey at the majestic Stirling Castle, majestically perched atop the hill. Enjoy the stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside, as well as the lush green hills of the Ochil Mountains.
Along the way, take in the many historical monuments and monuments, including the National Wallace Monument, dedicated to the hero of Scotland, William Wallace.
Further along, you’ll pass the iconic Stirling Bridge, one of the most important sites in Scottish history.
As you make your way through the city, soak up the many stories and legends that make up the rich history of Stirling.
Finally, end the journey at the beautiful Garden of Remembrance, a peaceful haven of greenery and peace.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the Stirling Castle Walk has something for everyone.
The Forth & Teith Valley Circuit
Discover the Forth & Teith Valley Circuit, an incredible journey through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery. This incredible walk starts in the small village of Doune, and is approximately 11 miles long, taking around 5-6 hours to complete.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the River Forth, the River Teith, and the surrounding countryside. You’ll pass through a variety of habitats, including ancient woodland, riverside meadows, and rolling hills that are full of wildlife.
You’ll also get to experience the peace and tranquility of the area, with plenty of opportunity to take in the stunning views. On this walk, you’ll be able to take in some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, including Stirling Castle and Doune Castle, as well as a variety of other historic sites.
Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a full-day adventure, the Forth & Teith Valley Circuit will provide you with a truly unforgettable experience.
The River Forth Walk
Take a journey of discovery along the River Forth Walk, and experience a true connection with the tranquil beauty of the Scottish countryside.
Starting in Stirling, the 12-mile River Forth Walk follows the course of the river on a meandering path that takes in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy the peace and quiet while you explore the woodlands, wetlands, and heathlands along the way.
Witness the wildlife that inhabits the area, including the salmon that make their annual migration up the river each year.
The River Forth Walk is a great way to get some exercise in a beautiful setting.
With a variety of different terrain, from riverside paths to moorland tracks, there is something to suit everyone’s needs.
Stop at one of the many picturesque spots for a picnic or to take in the views.
The path is well-marked and easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely stroll or more challenging hike.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker, the River Forth Walk is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
The Carse of Stirling Walk
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Carse of Stirling Walk, a 10-mile route that takes you through the lush landscape of the lowlands.
Along the way, you’ll pass through the Carse’s wetland habitats, ancient woodlands, and rolling farmlands, and get to enjoy stunning views of the Ochil Hills, the River Forth, and the Wallace Monument.
I’ve walked this route several times and I’ve always been taken away by its stunning beauty.
The Carse of Stirling Walk is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-moderate outdoor stroll. It’s suitable for all ages and abilities as the terrain is relatively flat and the paths are well-defined.
Along the walk, you can spot a variety of wildlife, from birds to deer, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
There are plenty of places to rest and enjoy a snack, and plenty of opportunities for photography.
All in all, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience that’ll leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
The Davie Cunningham’s Wood Walk
Explore the Davie Cunningham’s Wood Walk, a peaceful and tranquil trail that winds through the picturesque landscape of the Ochil Hills.
This five-mile trail is located near Stirling and is a great option for anyone looking for a leisurely walk in the countryside. It takes you along the banks of the River Forth, offering stunning views of the river and its surrounding areas.
The walk is relatively flat, making it an ideal choice for families and even those with limited mobility. Along the way, you’ll pass through some of Scotland’s most beautiful forests and meadows, with a wide variety of wildlife to be spotted.
Near the end of the trail, you’ll come across the remains of the old Norman castle of Stirling, a fascinating site that provides a glimpse into Scotland’s past.
With its variety of scenery and its peaceful atmosphere, the Davie Cunningham’s Wood Walk is a must-visit for anyone looking for a pleasant walk in the Stirling area.
The Beecraigs Country Park Walk
After a tranquil walk through the woods of Davie Cunningham’s Wood Walk, why not try the Beecraigs Country Park Walk?
Located in the heart of West Lothian, this park offers a wonderful atmosphere with plenty of sights and sounds.
As you enter the park, the first thing you’ll notice is the lush greenery and trees, which provide a great backdrop for a leisurely stroll.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and rabbits.
As you make your way through the park, you’ll come across a variety of paths and trails, as well as a lake and a cafe.
The paths give you a chance to explore the park and take in its beauty, while the lake and cafe provide a great place to rest and relax.
You can also take a guided tour of the park, which will give you an even better appreciation of its beauty and history.
With its abundance of nature and its easy accessibility, the Beecraigs Country Park Walk is a must-see for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing walk.
The Castle Wood Walk
Merely a stone’s throw away from the Beecraigs Country Park lies the Castle Wood Walk, a tranquil path through the woods of Stirling that offers a unique and captivating experience.
From the moment you step onto the path, you’re surrounded by the lush greenery of the woods, as well as the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustling of the leaves.
As you meander through the path, you’ll come across some spectacular sights, such as a picturesque pond and a variety of native flora and fauna.
The path is also lined with benches, providing the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
At the end of the walk, you can also enjoy a stunning view of Stirling Castle and the surrounding landscape.
The Castle Wood Walk is a wonderful way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peaceful nature.
The National Wallace Monument Walk
Take a journey through history when you embark on the National Wallace Monument Walk, a peaceful hike filled with fascinating sights. Located near the town of Stirling in Scotland, this walk takes you along a path winding through the area’s past.
As you stroll along, you’ll be able to see the National Wallace Monument, a majestic tower built in honor of William Wallace, a Scottish knight and patriot. Along the way, you’ll also be able to take in views of the beautiful countryside, including the Ochil Hills and the Forth Valley.
As you reach the Monument, you’ll be able to get a closer look at the impressive tower and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
The National Wallace Monument Walk is a great way to explore the history and beauty of Scotland. The walk is relatively flat, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels. It’s also a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy a peaceful and scenic stroll.
Whether you’re a local looking for a nice walk near Stirling, or a visitor wanting to explore the area’s history, this walk is sure to provide a memorable experience.
The Gargunnock Hills Walk
Embark on a journey of discovery with the beautiful Gargunnock Hills Walk, a tranquil trek through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery.
The Gargunnock Hills Walk is a nine-mile loop that begins near the village of Gargunnock, and takes walkers through the lush, rolling hills of the area.
Along the way, you’ll see plenty of wildlife and lush vegetation, as well as some historic sites. The walk also offers stunning views of the Ochil Hills, the Forth Valley, and the River Forth.
The walk is suitable for most levels of fitness, and you can choose the route to suit your needs – whether you want a short stroll or a longer trek.
You’ll pass by several sites of historical interest, including the remains of the old Gargunnock House, and the ruins of St. Ninian’s Church.
The walk also takes you to the summit of the Gargunnock Hills, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
So, come and explore the Gargunnock Hills Walk, and experience the beauty of Scotland’s countryside.
The Glengoyne Distillery Walk
After enjoying a pleasant walk in the Gargunnock Hills, I decided to head out to the Glengoyne Distillery Walk for a different kind of nature experience.
The walk is perfect for those who want to explore Scotland’s natural beauty as well as its history. The route takes you through the gentle rolling hills of Dumgoyne and Glengoyne, as well as the woodlands of the Glengoyne Estate.
Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the Kilsyth Hills, the Campsie Fells, and the Trossachs National Park.
The highlight of the walk is the Glengoyne Distillery itself, which produces some of Scotland’s finest whisky. After passing through the distillery grounds, you can take a break and enjoy a whisky tasting session, or just admire the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Once you’ve had your fill, you can continue your journey along the riverside path, past the old Glengoyne Mill, and back to the starting point.
All in all, the Glengoyne Distillery Walk is a great way to explore Scotland’s natural beauty and whisky-making history.
The Carron Valley Reservoir Walk
The Carron Valley Reservoir Walk offers an unforgettable experience, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding countryside while enabling them to explore its rich history.
Located near the town of Stirling, this walk is perfect for nature lovers who are looking for some peace and quiet. It’s about 6km long, so you can easily complete it in a day.
The route starts at the lovely Carron Valley Visitor Centre, where you’ll find a map of the area, and then winds its way through forests, meadows and rolling hills.
Highlights of the walk include the stunning views of the reservoir, the ancient ruins of Cairncross Castle, and the many species of wildlife that can be spotted along the way.
In addition, the walk is suitable for all ages and abilities, and there are plenty of benches along the route for taking a rest.
All in all, the Carron Valley Reservoir Walk is a great way to explore the area and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The River Forth & Touch Estuary Walk
Exploring the River Forth & Touch Estuary Walk is a wonderful way to appreciate Scotland’s beautiful landscape.
Starting at the Stirling Bridge, the walk takes you along the banks of the River Forth and then veers off to the Touch Estuary, a protected wildlife reserve.
The path is well maintained and easy to navigate, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the river itself.
Along the way, you can spot numerous species of birds, some of which are rare, such as the redshank and the merlin.
As you approach the estuary, you will be greeted by a wide variety of wildflowers, such as daisies, buttercups, and poppies.
The estuary is also home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, foxes, frogs, and newts.
Once you reach the end of the estuary, you can take a break at the picnic area, before heading back to the Stirling Bridge.
The River Forth & Touch Estuary Walk is sure to leave a lasting impression and provide an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
Wrapping up my top 15 list of the best walks in Stirling, I can confidently say that there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll in the countryside or a more strenuous hike up the hills, Stirling has it all.
From the Battle of Bannockburn Heritage Trail to the Glengoyne Distillery Walk, I’ve enjoyed exploring all of these amazing and unique locations.
With so much to discover, I’m sure you’ll have just as much fun as I did!