
What is recorded here
Stirling Castle is a medieval castle in Stirling, Scotland, where major buildings date from 1490 to 1600 and at least eight sieges are recorded. It stands on a steep quartz-dolerite crag above the River Forth crossing, making it both a royal palace and a military stronghold. Mary, Queen of Scots was crowned there in 1542, while Bonnie Prince Charlie failed to take it in 1746. The castle remains in use, preserving a place where ceremony, birth, death and warfare kept returning to the same high rock.
Scotland's National Record of the Historic Environment records Stirling Castle as Castle (medieval), Midden (period Unassigned), War Memorial(s) (20th Century). The official map says its point is accurate as follows: NGR given to the nearest 10m. The record does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.
Stirling Castle was built by the Kings of Scotland in the 12th century and significantly expanded by King James IV in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. It is important as a key royal residence and a strategic stronghold, often contested in Scottish history, including during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.
Places near here
Stirling BridgeSword (period Unassigned) · 1 yd
Stirling Castle, Queen Anne GardenSundial (period Unassigned) · 9 yd
Stirling Castle, PalacePalace (16th Century) · 38 yd
Robert the Bruce MonumentMemorial · 135 yd
Stirling, Butt WellSpring (period Unassigned) · 137 yd
Wilson MonumentMemorial · 291 yd
Gowan HillMountain / peak · 326 yd
Mercat CrossHeritage attraction · 477 yd
Smith Art Gallery & MuseumMuseum · 516 yd
Mote HillMountain / peak · 623 ydOther information
Photo: John McPake · CC BY 2.0