We got the train to Stirling and decided to walk to the castle. We absolutely took a wrong turn and ended up on a wood lined path, with the castle above is. We couldn't work out how to get in and just kept walking and walking until we were behind it.
We were about to despair when we reached the entrance randomly from the back (I assume this is the frustration many of the enemies felt when trying to get in). There was a large green and a rather imposing statue overseeing the land. There is a gatehouse where we got our tickets. Then it was time to explore.
The castle was built in the 12th century, but new bits have been added over the years, so visually many of the buildings looked very different.
With lots of people in medieval clothes we couldn't resist asking some questions about the history, and I have to say the re-enacters really knew their stuff. We popped in to one of the palaces, which had been decorated in the style of years ago. A man dressed as Henry VIII had a chat with us and then have Chloe a giant unicorn horn to pose with. The unicorn was decided on to be the supporter of the Scottish Royal coat of arms, and James V owned lots of tapestries which featured unicorns.
I think my favourite part about the castle were the gardens. They were immaculate, and had stunning views.
I dread to think how many gardeners they need to employ and to keep it looking so lovely, or how long it takes them all.
We ended up being there in April 2012, which is when Stirling Castle celebrated the end of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. This meant lots of soldiers in uniform plodding around and a canon salute which was deafening. Chloe loved it! It seemed this was a very rare occurrence, so it was very lucky we were there on that day.
Cost: £14 for adults
Hints and tips: Train tickets in Scotland are really reasonable so if that's an option for you, take it. If you have kids, there were a good amount of fun activities to keep them entertained. On your way up the hill in Stirling just takes the steps by the big statue or you'll end up taking the extra long route, like we did.
Stirling castle has it's own blog. However if you'd like to read more about this blog, and why we ended up taking on this castle challenge, check out my first blog.
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