Stirling, Scotland on a Budget

As a budget traveller, finding affordable destinations that offer a rich cultural experience can be challenging. Stirling, Scotland has a lot to offer to tourists on a tight budget. This charming city, located in the heart of Scotland, is steeped in history, culture and tradition. We were on a road trip in the height of tourist season and had been travelling for several weeks in a campervan. As we got closer to Edinburgh, prices had been raising, leaving slim offerings in our preferred budget range. Finding an affordable campsite became an equally challenging experience, but we found a lovely campsite just a few kilometres outside the city of Stirling.

The Witches Craig campsite is an ideal option for budget travellers, with its affordable rates and excellent amenities. The campsite features spacious camping and caravan pitches, hot showers, and a laundry facility. The cost of camping is £22-25 per night for a tent pitch or £28-32 for a caravan site with electricity, making it a great value option for budget travellers.

The campsite is impeccably maintained, beautifully landscaped, and is tucked beneath some stunning cliffs. The wood carvings and whimsical accessories located all around the campsite will charm you. A bus stop is conveniently located just outside the main gates that goes straight into Stirling, allowing us to leave the van behind and not worry about parking in the city.

History of Stirling

Stirling has a rich and complex history that dates back over a thousand years. The town played an important role in Scottish history, serving as a strategic stronghold and a site of numerous battles and conflicts. One of the most important events in Stirling's history was the 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge when the forces of William Wallace defeated the English army.

Stirling Castle served as a royal residence for centuries and was the site of several important events, including the coronation of King James IV. The castle played a key role in the Wars of Scottish Independence, and it was the site of several sieges and battles.

Mary, Queen of Scots was born in the town in 1542 and spent her early years at Stirling Castle. Mary was crowned Queen at the age of nine months in the castle's Chapel Royal. The town was also the site of the 1746 Battle of Falkirk when the English defeated Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Stirling's history is also closely tied to the history of the Scottish Reformation. The town was a centre of religious conflict during the 16th century, and it was the site of several important events, including the signing of the National Covenant in 1638. The covenant was a document that asserted the independence of the Scottish church and paved the way for the establishment of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland.

Church of the Holy Rude

Holy Rude Church is an important historical site in Stirling, dating back to the 15th century. The church served as the parish church of Stirling until the mid-20th century and is now a popular tourist attraction. The church's most notable feature is its unique crown spire, which is a prominent feature of Stirling's skyline. This is one of the few timbered churches remaining in Scotland.

Visitors to Holy Rude Church can explore the church's interior, which features a range of historical and religious artifacts. One of the highlights is the church's impressive stained glass windows, dating back to the 19th century. The church also has a number of interesting memorials and monuments, including the tomb of James III and his queen, Margaret of Denmark.

To make the most of a visit to Holy Rood Church, take time to explore the church's interior. The church is located in Stirling's Old Town, so visitors can also take the opportunity to explore the town's other historical sites and attractions. The church is a short walk from Stirling Castle, and visitors can combine a visit to both sites for a full day of historical exploration in Stirling.

Holy Rude Church is open to visitors from April to October, with varying hours depending on the day of the week. Admission is free, although donations are welcomed to help maintain the church and its historical artifacts. Make sure to check the church's official website for up-to-date opening hours and any temporary closures.

Cowane's Hospital

Across the street from the church is C