Scotland: the most beautiful country in the world

by | Sep 7, 2017 | Blog

Scotland has officially been voted the world’s most beautiful country, by readers of the acclaimed Rough Guides. Beating Canada and New Zealand into second and third place, Scotland was praised especially for its unspoilt beaches, brooding lochs and historic castles. We agree wholeheartedly! Isn’t it time you came to see some of the sights that made all those voters choose Scotland?

Crannog on Loch Tay, Perthshire
Crannog on Loch Tay, Perthshire
Inchmahome Priory on the Lake of Menteith
Inchmahome Priory on the Lake of Menteith

Scotland’s Beaches

Scotland’s beaches invariably turn up on the Top 25 listings every year, favoured for their white sands and clear waters. In addition, you’ll rarely have to jockey for position on a Scottish beach. Especially in the Highland beaches, you’ll likely get the place to yourself. Rough Guides cites remote and captivating Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull as Scotland’s most beautiful beach. And by default, that means it’s the best in the UK too. Though worth the visit, that’s pretty far north. If you’re based in Stirling, and that’s just too far a drive, why not stroll along the magnificent golden sands of Gullane Beach, around an hour from Stirling? Or recreate the opening sequence of ‘Chariots of Fire at St Andrew’s, just an hour and a half from Stirling. Outlander fans will love the shingly beach at Blackness Castle, which had a starring role in the first series of Outlander. And it’s just half an hour’s drive, too.

Scotland’s Castles

Stirling Castle stands, magnificent, above the city on a volcanic outcrop which gave the city a strategic fortress against all comers. You’d be hard put to find a castle more steeped in Scotland’s historic narrative than this one, and it’s been beautifully restored to reflect how it looked at its prime. The staff are brilliant too – nothing is too much trouble. To add to your whistle-stop tour of Scotland’s best castles, visit Doune Castle, which not only is a 14th-century looming masterpiece, but stars as Castle Leoch in Outlander. And it’s a mere 15 minutes from Stirling. (Why not visit Deanston Distillery for a wee dram while you’re at it?) Throw in Linlithgow Palace, a favoured bolthole for Mary Queen of Scots, and you’re getting a real taste of Scotland’s strongholds. And if you want more, within easy striking distance of Stirling, read our blog all about it:  https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/blog/castle-tour/

Scotland’s Lochs

Voters who put Scotland in first place list find something romantic about her tranquil, glassy lochs. And from Stirling, you can reach plenty of these inland waters. Take a walk round Linlithgow Loch when you visit the castle. The path round the loch will take you around thirty minutes. It’s an easy walk and offers brilliant selfie opportunities with the Castle and the distinctive crossed spires of St Michael’s Church behind. The Lake of Menteith (which claims to be Scotland’s only ‘lake’) is just 25 minutes away from Stirling and well worth a visit. Take a boat out to Inchmahome Priory on the tiny island on the lake. Dating from 1238, it once served as a refuge for Mary Queen of Scots, and retains its atmosphere of quiet sanctuary. Up for an hour and a half drive? Take a day trip to Loch Tay. This is the largest loch in Perthshire and one of the deepest in Scotland. Ancient settlers once lived here, inhabiting artificially created islands known as crannogs. There are 18 of these on Loch Tay, and you can still see one of them near the northern shore at Kenmore. This was the ancient burial place of Queen Sybilla, wife of Alexander King of Scots. To get inside a crannog, visit the Scottish Crannog Centre at Kenmore – Scotland’s only authentic recreation of an Iron Age loch dwelling. If you just love being near water, read more in our blog: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/blog/water-fun/

More?

If these aren’t enough reasons to come visit Scotland, the most beautiful country in the world, look at our blog page. It’s bursting with day-trip ideas and secret places to discover. Start your Scottish Bucket List here: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/our-blog/

Unspoilt sands at Gullane Bay
Unspoilt sands at Gullane Bay
Doune Castle's brooding splendour
Doune Castle’s brooding splendour

Photo credits:

  • Crannog Centre on Loch Tay: By Dave Morris from Edinburgh, UK (Flickr.com – image description page) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
  • Gullane Beach: By Gary Rogers. © Copyright Gary Rogersand licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
  • Doune Castle: By Wikifan75 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.
  • Inchmahome Priory: By Eileen Hendersonand is licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 license
 
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Plan the best of times in Stirling: Autumn

by | Aug 23, 2017 | Blog

Here’s where to stay, and what to do, as we leave summer behind in Stirling. Time to kick up some leaves, explore historic sites, and throw the first log on the fire!

Autumn peace in Lallybroch

Lallybroch, on the Kersebonny Carse, sleeps 10

Balfron Hayloft would make a great autumn getaway

Sleeping up to 10, Balfron Hayloft would make a great autumn family getaway

Where to stay

As we leave summer behind, why not consider one of our more rural properties so that you can make the most of the turning leaves and new birdsong? Lallybroch (named after the fictional estate in Outlander) is an impressive 5-bedroom steading conversion. Set on the Kersebonny Carse just outside Stirling, Lallybroch is within easy reach of all amenities and historic sites. Yet it has a tranquil setting, with striking views to the Castle. In addition, we have Balfron Hayloft, a magnificent traditional stone-built farm steading conversion. It offers ideal family-sized holiday accommodation. Set in the rolling countryside of Stirlingshire with picturesque views of Ben Lomond and the Ochil Hills, Balfron Hayloft is an ideal base for touring the Scottish heartlands. And what’s more, both of these properties have stoves you can warm your toes at in the evenings. To book these and any of our properties, see: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/

Kick up some leaves

For those who love autumn colour, there’s no need to get on board an expensive flight to New England. Take a walk round Stirling University Campus in late September/early October for amazing foliage displays. Just an hour from Stirling by car or even less by train, Perthshire has earned itself the title of ‘Big Tree Country’. Here, you can find Europe’s oldest tree, the world’s highest hedge, Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood in present day, and lots more. Visit some of the stunning sites recommended for leaf peeping by Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust at https://www.pkct.org/Pages/Category/perthshire-big-tree-country

Bloody Scotland 8-10 September

Far from being a ‘just Stirling’ event, Bloody Scotland is fast becoming a national literary treasure. Scotland’s International Crime Writing Festival draws crime writers from all over the world to Stirling every September. In this sixth year of the festival they welcome back popular favourites Ian Rankin, Val McDermid, Denise Mina and last year’s McIlvanney Prize winner Chris Brookmyre. You also have the chance to catch Simon Kernick, Lynda La Plante, Peter May, Mark Billingham, and many more. The authors give unforgettable talks on crime and writing. They offer panels on everything from forensics to soil science and witness identification. If you love a crime thriller, you need to be in Stirling this weekend! For a full events line-up, see: www.bloodyscotland.com/

Doors Open Days

Doors Open Days is an annual event throughout Scotland each September. It does exactly what it says on the tin. It opens doors to the most fascinating buildings, sites and landscapes we have, whether large or small, grand or quirky. And it’s free. More than a thousand venues throughout Scotland will open this year. The website is brilliant – simply choose where you are or want to go, and you’ll find your listings. Stirling is opening at least 25 buildings to visitors for free, with plenty more in Falkirk and Clackmannanshire too. Have a browse and plan your itinerary: http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/

The Enchanted Forest

To celebrate autumn, how about leaving the city behind and heading outdoors for a bit of natural magic? The Enchanted Forest is renowned for being Scotland’s premier sound and light experience and attracted over 70,000 visitors in 2016. With dazzling visuals and innovative design set against an original music score, explore Faskally Wood near Pitlochry in an unforgettable way. Scots Gaelic for ‘Edge of the Water’, this year’s show name Oir an Uisge has taken its inspiration from the magnificent Loch Dunmore that’s at the heart of Faskally Wood. For tickets (and don’t delay), see: http://www.enchantedforest.org.uk/

Autumn colour at Loch Faskally

Autumn colour at Loch Faskally

Craigvinean pine cone shelter by Ronald Weir

Craigvinean Pine Cone Shelter. Photo by Ronald Weir

Photo credits:

  • Craigvinean Pine Cone Shelter: Photo by Ronald Weir and originally supplied by Perthshire Big Tree Country, now http://www.pkct.org/
  • Faskally Wood: Photo copyright Perthshire Picture Agency and originally supplied by Perthshire Big Tree Country, now http://www.pkct.org/
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Indoor activities for rainy summer days!

by | Jul 27, 2017 | Blog

Let’s be honest. Summer in Scotland is beautiful, but it’s, well, unpredictable, too. So, if you’re staying with us over the summer and the weather forecast looks iffy, we’ve plenty of indoor events to ensure your holiday stays magical, come rain or shine!

Enjoy music despite the rain at Stirling Castle

Enjoy an evening with the SCO at Stirling Castle

Hidden treasures at the Albert Halls antiques fair

Hidden treasures at the Albert Halls antiques fair

History and a little bit more

The Antonine Wall in Falkirk: Escape a rainy day and head to Callendar House in Falkirk, just a 20-minute drive from Stirling. Browse the fabulous house itself, and be sure to visit the Georgian kitchens. There’s usually some foodie treats to sample from the fully costumed cooks there, who’ll give you a taste of early 19th century fare handmade that day. The House’s permanent displays are The Story of Callendar House, a history covering the 11th to the 19th centuries; The Antonine Wall, Rome’s Northern Frontier; and Falkirk: Crucible of Revolution 1750-1850, tells how the local area was transformed during the first century of the industrial era. And it’s all free. For more information, visit: http://www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/venues/callendar-house/

The Scottish Chamber Orchestra at Stirling Castle: Who cares what the weather is doing when you are listening to orchestral music within the stunning surroundings of Stirling Castle? Made a date for 18 July, when the SCO visit to perform at the historic venue. The Orchestra’s principal Cellist Philip Higham is soloist in Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations – a work that tips its hat to the eighteenth century, but is Romantic at heart. The opening of Mozart’s ‘Paris’ Symphony demonstrates Mozart making use of clarinets for the first time in a symphony. Conductor Philipp von Steinaecker continues the genial high spirits and passion in Haydn’s final Symphony. For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.stirlingcastle.scot/whatson/

Free guided tour at the Engine Shed: On 20 July, join your guide for a free guided tour of this building – Scotland’s dedicated building conservation centre. The building in Stirling was once a military goods and transfers shed, built sometime between 1896 and 1913. The exact details of its construction were subject to an information blackout and are still unknown today. In 2017, after an extensive restoration, The Engine Shed opened its doors to the public. During the guided tour, you’ll learn how the Engine Shed was renovated using traditional materials in a contemporary way, and how many other traditional materials have been recycled or restored during the restoration. For more information, visit: https://www.engineshed.scot/whats-on/

Appreciate the environment and antique treasures

Eco Fayre at the Macrobert, Stirling: Drop in for free with all the family! Inspired by Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and his friends (a play for children running this summer) the Macrobert is running a selection of events to talk about wildlife and the environment. The Eco Fayre on 28 July gives you a chance to browse stalls from organisations like Plantlife Scotland and the RSPB, exploring simple changes we can all make to help take care of our environment. You can also have a go at some hands-on activities. For more information, visit: https://macrobertartscentre.org/event/eco-fayre/

Scotfairs Antiques Fair: If the forecast says rain, then why not rummage for treasures on the first Saturday of every month? Head to the glorious Albert Halls in Stirling, where you will find antiques for the connoisseur, hidden gems for the experts, and thousands of gorgeously affordable items for everyone else. Be sure to have lunch or at least a coffee at Henderson’s Bistro within the halls, too. Perfect. For more information, visit: http://www.scotfairs.co.uk/calendar.htm

Comedy?

Comedy sneak peek: On the 12 July, at the Macrobert, Stirling, you can see Craig Hill, Micky Bartlett, and Mark Nelson’s Edinburgh Fringe preview. It’s a night of comedy with a difference – headline comedians trying out their brand new material – off notes and adrenaline. So come expecting nerves, a bit of chaos and a lot of laughs … but don’t come expecting a slick, finished comedy show on the cheap. Contains adult humour and some rude (but hilarious) jokes. Strictly 16+ and those not easily offended. Please note these shows are a ‘work in progress’ – so it won’t be slick, but it sure as heck will be funny. For more information, visit: https://culturestirling.org/events/comedy-sneak-peek/

Music and dancing …

Gary Innes: 26 July at the Tolbooth, Stirling, see Highland-born accordionist and MG Alba Scots Trad Awards ‘Instrumentalist of the Year’ winner, Gary Innes. Born in the village of Spean Bridge in the North of Scotland, Gary is one of the founding members of award-winning Scottish super-group Mànran and has been [performing for over 16 years. Gary returns to The Tolbooth this July with his band, following the release of his latest album in February 2019. For more information, visit: https://culturestirling.org/events/gary-innes/

Summer Ceilidh: With dates in both July and August, enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh for all at the Tolbooth Stirling. You’ll have a great night out in great company, with a ceilidh led by the International Ceilidh Collective featuring some of Scotland’s finest traditional musicians.  The band will lead you through the best known Scottish dances.  For all levels and ages – a ‘caller’ will talk you through the steps – just bring your dancing shoes. For more information, visit: https://culturestirling.org/events/summer-ceilidh/

Kids will love the hands-on activities at the Macrobert Eco Fayre

Kids will love the hands-on activities at the Macrobert Eco Fayre

Scottish music can dispel any rain cloud

Scottish music can dispel any rain cloud

More information: Henderson’s Bistro, Albert Halls, Dumbarton Road, Stirling FK8 2QL. Tel: 01786 469727 Website: www.hendersonsstirling.co.uk

Photo credits:

  • Albert Halls exterior: Kenneth Allen [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.
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Stirling: Alive with Scotland

by | Apr 19, 2017 | Blog

A new campaign promoting business and tourism was recently launched in Stirling’s Tolbooth. The aim is to make the City a thriving, world-class destination that’s “Alive with Scotland”. Big changes are coming, and there’s lots to look forward to!

Spanned by Stirling Old Bridge, the River Forth will regain its importance to the City
The River and Stirling’s City Centre will become a newly integrated space
The Albert Halls will become a Digital Campus for key events and conferences
The Albert Halls will become a Digital Campus for key events and conferences

The launch was celebrated with a short (and beautiful!) film, projected onto the Castle rock and onto the Wallace Monument. Familiar places appear, from Stirling Castle and the Battle of Bannockburn to Deanston Distillery and music at Nicky Tams. Sports, technology, and community learning are spotlighted. It’s only three uplifting minutes long, and well worth the watch – see it here: https://youtu.be/_21sy0ABhcw

What’s the campaign all about?

With the strapline ‘Alive with Scotland’, the campaign promotes Stirling as it completes its City Deal, which secures funding and investment in Stirlingshire tourism, leisure, and business. The deal will create jobs, support local projects, and ensure the City’s continued prosperity.  It’s all part of the plan to get Stirling – already a thriving city – onto the world stage as a destination, not only for tourists, but for its communities, and for international business too. There are plans for significant investment in housing and transport. There are plans for the development of a new Stirling Sports Village. And there’s a new multi-partnership cultural strategy for the area, as well as a refreshed rural economic strategy.

What are the projects?

There are six key projects under way:

The Harbour

This will bring together the River and Stirling’s City centre to create a new integrated space. The Harbour will include a National Tartan Centre and a shared Civic Space. There will be an external performance and events space in a bespoke City Harbour Square. And the Engine Shed will become a centre for conservation skills and heritage excellence.

Digital District 

The aim is to place Stirling at the forefront of digital innovation and enterprise nationally and internationally. A Digital Hub in the existing Municipal Buildings will provide a space where businesses and students can come together to create and innovate. The Albert Halls will provide a Digital Campus. This will become a leading UK centre for conferences, seminars and programmes, all about technical innovation.

Grow-on Space

This will address the shortage of space in the City for growing businesses. It will provide a bespoke space for established businesses to develop and progress.

City Park

The City Park will address a long-overlooked area of Stirling at the foot of the Castle and Back Walk. The Park will create a space that will attract and retain residents. And it will also create flow from this area of Stirling into the city centre and historic areas for residents and tourists alike. This will be amongst the most distinctive parks in Scotland with a significant setting below Stirling Castle.

The River

This project aims to put the River Forth back into play as a major driver of Stirling’s economic, cultural and social prosperity. This project will include the development of a river taxi network, and better pedestrian and cycle paths. The river’s peninsulas and riverbanks will be developed to incorporate a barrage, controlling water water levels and water quality.

Mercat Cross

The regeneration of Mercat Cross, at the ‘top of the town’, will revitalise this strategically important area of the city. Initiatives include a City Market, increased permanent and temporary commercial space, and a Cultural Quarter.

An ambitious plan?

Yes, it’s an ambitious plan, but it’s already becoming reality. Codebase, one of Europe’s fastest growing tech hubs, has already moved into Stirling’s Digital district. The new Tartan Centre is coming soon. There’s investment in brand-new student residences in the city centre, and Stirling will hold its first ever marathon in May this year.

These are exciting times for Stirling. We can all be part of its transformation, by supporting and using these new assets as they appear in our beautiful city. Lots to look forward to!

 

 

The City Park will have a significant setting below Stirling Castle
The City Park will have a significant setting below Stirling Castle
Improved riverside footpaths, cycle paths and even river taxis are planned for the Forth
Improved riverside footpaths, cycle paths and even river taxis are planned for the Forth

More information: 

 

Photo credits:

  • Stirling Castle and Surrounds: By Janfrie1988 (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
  • Stirling Bridge: By Janfrie1988 (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
  • Kenneth Allen [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
  • River Forth: Alan Campbell [CC BY-SA 2.5 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5)], from Wikimedia Commons
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A Stirling Gardens Trail: Spring 2017

by | Mar 8, 2017 | Blog

Spring is upon us, and Easter approaches. It’s time for the garden: if not your own – then somebody else’s will do! Fancy a spring garden break in Stirling, anyone?

Gargunnock House Gardens
Gargunnock House Gardens
Kilbryde Castle Folly and House
Kilbryde Castle Folly and House

Choose from Stirling Self Catering’s Garden properties

From Stronend Cottage’s panoramic views to the tranquil seclusion of Gladstone’s enclosed garden in the heart of Stirling’s King’s Park, most of our properties offer you private green space to relax, barbecue, or just let the kids explore. Our gardens are well-tended, furnished, and beautiful. And you don’t even have to weed. Find your perfect holiday garden amongst our properties here: https://www.stirlingselfcatering.co.uk/properties/

Got your base? Then create your own Stirlingshire garden trail

Many of Stirlingshire’s most beautiful gardens are open by appointment from 1 April (some are earlier). This is facilitated by the 86-year-old charitable foundation Scotland’s Gardens. They raise funds for deserving causes nationwide by asking a small entry fee to a wealth of private gardens. Why not create your own trail, visiting these secluded, hidden gems? Here’s just a handful closest to us…

Gargunnock House (open 13 March-September) lies just five miles from Stirling. Its mature walled garden boasts more than 40 varieties of daffodil blooming from April. In addition, there’s a house garden, woodland walks and arboretum. Take a picnic and enjoy it on the benches provided within its three-acre walled area. £4.00 entry. Children free. Details.

Kilbryde Castle covers an impressive 12 acres, just three miles from Dunblane and Doune. The gardens are divided into formal, woodland and wild. They come into their own in spring with a display of bulbs. In autumn you’ll find clematis and acer bursting into colour. Entry £4 by arrangement from 1 April, children free. For details.

Milseybank, just a quarter of a mile from Bridge of Allan, offers outstanding views from a beautifully tended terraced ascent. The adjoining woodland is a colourful canvas of bluebells, rhododendrons, magnolias, camellias, as well as meconopsis. Entry £4 by arrangement from 1 April to 31 May. Children free. For details.

Thorntree, on a smaller scale, is a jewel-like country garden bedded to encircle its central courtyard. The short paths to the Apple Walk, Saltire Garden and Meconopsis bed also offer bonus views from Ben Lomond to Ben Ledi.  Plants are for sale throughout the year. Entry £4 by arrangement from 1 April to October. Children free. For details.

Milseybank Gardens
Milseybank Gardens
Thorntree Gardens
Thorntree Gardens

For more information on gardens open throughout the year or by arrangement:

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