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explore plore www.explorescotland.net
Stirling & Forth Valley
including Bridge of Allan, Dunblane and Falkirk 1 Visit STirliNG CASTlE and witness history coming to life. Cross the threshold into the castle’s Royal Palace and step into the wonderful world of the Royal Stewart Court where costumed performers, in their roles as bodyguards, court officials and servants, will welcome you into 16th-century life. Families can have fun in the Palace Vaults where children can try out activities such as dressing in period costume and playing medieval instruments. The Castle Exhibition focuses on some of the castle’s fascinating archaeology including the secret Stirling skeletons. The unicorn café and three on-site gift shops are also worth a visit. OPEN All year, 7 days a week (except 25th & 26th Dec) 1 Apr-30 Sept 9.30am-6pm 1 Oct-31 Mar 9.30am-5pm Entry Prices £14.00 Adult £11.00 Conc £7.50 Child Under 5s free. Stirling Castle, Stirling, FK8 1EJ (Junction 10 M9) Tel: 01786 450 000 Email: info@stirlingcastle.gov.uk Keep up to date with all the news by registering for the enewsletter www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/newsletter
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STirliNG SMiTH ArT GAllErY AND MUSEUM You haven’t seen Stirling till you’ve seen the Smith – it’s the soul of Stirling. Home to the world’s oldest football and curling stone. Social and art history of Stirling. Café, shop, gardens, picnic area. OPEN Tues to Sat 10.30 – 5pm, Sun 2-5pm. Free admission and parking. Tel 01786 471 917 www.smithartgalleryandmuseum.co.uk
BANNOCKBUrN Here, Robert the Bruce defeated the might of Edward II in 1314. New visitor experience opening in 2014, experience medieval warfare like never before and discover how the tactics and decisions of two kings inspired events which would shape the Scottish nation. Temporary exhibition available in 2013. Visit www.battleofbannockburn.com for details. On A872, 2 mls S. of Stirling. Tel: 0844 493 2139
DEANSTON DiSTillErY ViSiTOr CENTrE: Whisky tours and tastings of the Deanston Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, next to the River Teith, from which the hand crafted whisky is produced. The Distillery Shop has whiskies and gifts. The Distillery Cafe is the ideal place to enjoy your suroundings. OPEN all year, 7 days, 10am to 5pm. Guided tours on the hour. Deanston by Doune, Stirling, FK16 6AG Tel: 01786 843 010. www.deanstonmalt.com OlD TOWN EXPlOrEr TOUr. Rated 5 Stars on Trip Advisor! Join the costumed guide on a journey through the Old Town, revealing some of Stirling’s strangest tales. A unique mix of comedy, drama and storytelling. Departs: Wed -Sunday, 12 noon, 2pm, 4pm Meet: Mercat Cross Tickets: From your Guide or Tourist Information. www.stirlingwalkingtours.com 5
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Visit STErliNG MillS OUTlET SHOPPiNG VillAGE have a look around and discover what makes Sterling Mills a unique shopping destination. You’ll find us at the foot of the stunning Ochil Hills, not far from Stirling, and an easy car ride from most of central Scotland. With FREE parking, a kids play park and loads of family events taking place throughout the year, shopping at Sterling Mills is a breath of fresh air. Find famous brands you love for less, M&S Outlet, Nike Factory Store, adidas/ Reebok, GAP Outlet, Thorntons, Pavers Shoes, Charles Clinkard, Trespass, Mountain Warehouse and many more! OPEN: 7 days, 10am to 6pm Devon Vale, Tillicoultry FK13 6HQ Tel: 01259 752 100 www.sterlingmills.com
Call or book Online! ST I R L I N G ’ S LA RG E ST TA X I C OM PA N Y
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THE NATiONAl WAllACE MONUMENT - Stirling’s famous landmark and the high point of your visit to the city. Walk in the footsteps of a national hero, and follow the story of Sir William Wallace - Scotland’s ‘Braveheart’. Listen in on his trial, and see his magnificent battle sword. Visit The Hall of Heroes, and take in the panoramic views from The Crown. Free parking, courtesy bus service to/from The Monument, Audio Tour, Woodland Walks and Nature Trails (Complimentary map available), Souvenir and Gift Shops, and Special Events from April to September, including presentations by costumed historians. Relax in Legends Coffee House, set directly beneath the Monument, and serving speciality coffees, soft drinks, freshly made sandwiches, paninis, and cakes. OPEN daily all year (Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day). Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Causewayhead, Stirling FK9 5LF. Tel: 01786 472140 www.nationalwallacemonument.com for further information, including details of special events.
AllOA TOWEr Dating back to the 15thC, it was the ancestral home of the Earls of Mar and was extensively altered in the early 18thC. The tower retains its underground dungeon. Follow the story of one of Scotlands most powerful families, the Erskines, with an Audio Visual presentation. Superb furniture and portraits. OPEN 1 April to 31 Oct daily, 1-5pm. Admission applies to non NTS members - become a member when you visit. An NTS property. Alloa, FK10 1PP (signposted off the A907).Tel: 0844 493219 www.nts.org.uk 9
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THE rOYAl BUrGH OF CUlrOSS was a thriving community in the C16th and C17th with mines, iron works and salt panning. Today it is a unique time capsule of a C17th Scottish town, with cobbled streets, harled houses & pantiled roofs. OPEN: Culross Palace, Study, Town House and Tearoom: 1st April to 31 Oct, Thurs-Mon, 12-5pm; Closed Tues/Wed (Jun - Aug, open daily) NTS. Admission applies to non-members. Off the A985, 16mls from Stirling. Tel: 0844 4932189
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Eating out in Stirling 10
lA CiOCiArA A piece of Italy in Stirling serving authentic Italian food inspired by the Lazio/ Monte Cassino region of Italy, with fine wines ‘Segafredo’ coffee & equi’s ice cream. They cater for everyone ..breakfast lunch and dinner with a variety of fish, pastas, salads and meats. Specials: Buffet Lunch on Thurs and Fri, Sat lunch ‘Soup and Pasta’ and ‘Pizza and Pasta’, 12-5pm. Scottish/Italian Fish and Chips. A la Carte menu. OPEN all year, 10am to 11pm. 41 Friars Street, Stirling. Tel: 01786 451552 laciociara@stirling.co.uk
KilTED KANGArOO - Australian Bar & Grill House. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a great selection of Drinks from around the world, some amazing entertainment or Stirling’s biggest Beer Garden there is something for everyone! Tue: Open Mic - Wed: Quiz - Thu: Karaoke. Party Bar open until 2am Fri & Sat! OPEN 7 DAYS. 9 Upper Craigs, Stirling (under the arch). Tel: 01786 451130 - www.kiltedkangaroo.com 14
COrriEri’S CAFE Owned by a Scottish-Tuscan family for over 40 years. Producing all their own pizza dough, pasta dishes, garlic breads and much more, from fresh ingredients sourced daily. Fish & Chips. Traditional Italian Ice Cream. Table Licence. Reasonably priced 6 page menu, catering for the whole family. OPEN 6 days, 10am to 10.30pm, closed tuesday. 7 Alloa Rd, Causewayhead. www.corrieris.co.uk
THE GOlDEN CrOWN has an excellent reputation for its Chinese and Cantonese cuisine. Operated by the same family for 40 years, it’s Stirling’s original Chinese Restaurant, offering over 160 dishes from their fabulous menu. Relax in their warm and friendly restaurant, visit the take-away or simply telephone for home deliveries. OPEN daily 12noon to 2pm and 5pm to 10pm (11pm Fri/Sat). 23-25 Barnton St, Stirling. Tel: 01786 473984 or 01786 446336 17
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Mediterranean food at the MEDiTErrANÉA rESTAUrANT in Stirling. Simple, fresh food and a fantastic choice of wines. Choose from the Mediterranean Grill or make your own selection from a menu of Greek and Eastern Mediterranean dishes. Regular lively entertainment! 4 Viewfield Place, Stirling, FK8 1NQ, Tel: 01786 478 534. www.mediterranearestaurant.com OFFER: 2 FOR 1 ON ALL MEDITERRANEAN MEZE/ TAPAS DISHES ON TUES, WITH THIS ADVERT.
SPriNGKErSE ViEW the perfect place to relax with friends and family. Uniquely, there are 16 booths with TV’s for the family whilst dining. The restaurant is carefully zoned for more formal occasions. Freshly cooked food with super service at prices that will make your mouth water! Outdoor play area, indoor Play Zone, with ball pit, climbing frame, slides, ropes and much more! Springkerse Business Park, Forthside, FK7 7XH. Tel: 01786 446092. www.springkerseview.co.uk
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THE riVEr HOUSE rESTAUrANT has an enviable reputation for attracting customers from near and far. Freshly prepared local produce. Superb waterside location with seasonal al fresco dining. Ample free parking. Kid’s play area. Conference facilities. OPEN all year, 10am-10pm, food served all day, Á la carte and pre-theatre menu from 5pm. Castle Business Park, off r/about from the M9 (J10). Tel: 01786 465577 www.houserestaurants.com
FilliNG STATiON is an all-American restaurant and bar in the heart of Stirling, offering authentic flavours of the USA from the East Coast to the West. It is casual dining at its best, where the food will always be good, the vibe always upbeat and the service second to none. Choose from a selection of wraps, burgers, pizzas, salads, grills, the ever popular sizzling fajitas, plus lots more. OPEN 9.00am until late. 1-7 Dumbarton Road. Tel: 01786 472 820 21
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JiMMY CHUNGS. Authentic Chinese Cuisine presented in buffet style, a beautiful selection of starters and main courses, followed by a selection of fresh desserts - if you have any room left! OPEN 7 days a week, lunch 11.45 – 4.30pm only £6.49, (£7.49 Fri-Sun and bank holidays). Dinner 5pm – 10.30pm only £9.99 (£11.99 Fri-Sat). The chefs only use the freshest ingredients! 14 Friars Street, Stirling. FK8 1HA Tel: 01786 469911
MOrriSON’S COlD BEEr CO in the listed building that was once the city’s post office. Over 30 different beers and lagers, cool cocktails and over 200 single malt and blended whiskies. Food is served 12pm-9pm. Big screen TV’s showing SKY Sports and a giant screen showing major events. Outdoor patio area with heaters. Fun with DJ’s, theme nights. 84-86 Murray Place, Stirling, FK8 2BX. Tel: 01786 463 524. www.coldbeercompany-stirling.co.uk 15
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BrEA is a great restaurant located in the heart of Stirling. Famous for its gourmet burgers, delicious seafood and handcraft beers like Brew Dog, Fallen Brewing or Fyne Ales. There is also Blue Moon on draught. OPEN all week 11am -9.30pm for lunch and dinner. Lunch deal meal + soft drink £7.95, meal + alc drink (bottle of beer or sml glass of wine) £9.95. Come and enjoy our fantastic, fresh made food, friendly service and great beer. 5 Baker Street, Stirling FK8 1BJ Tel: 01786 446277
WElCOME TO THE STirliNG BElHAVEN PUB TrAil: The City Walls, The Corn Exchange, No.2 Baker Street, Drouthy Neebors and Molly Malone’s: Proud of the company’s Scottish heritage, Belhaven Pubs are renowned for excellent value and service regardless of the size or style of venue. Offering a wide range of beers, wines and freshly prepared food. Follow the purple footsteps on the page 5 town map. 18
THE COrN EXCHANGE Situated in the heart of Stirling’s city centre Every weekend The Corn Exchange has the most up-to-date dance and chart tunes with the resident DJ and an extensive cocktail menu. Kitchen open from 11am till 8:30pm with great British classics such as steak pie and fish and chips to enjoy in the newly refurbished outdoor area or lounge-style seating on the ground floor and the big dance floor upstairs. 11-13 Corn Exchange, Stirling, FK8 2HX. Tel: 01786 451904
MOllY MAlONE’S offers a touch of the Emerald Isle, so join in the ‘Spirit of the Irish!’ Live music with Emerald-style floor service to encourage singing, dancing and romancing! Full menu of Irish, Scottish and British favourites served 11am to 9pm (children welcome before 8pm). “The best pint of Guinness, at the best price in town” OPEN Sun-Thurs 11am to midnight and till 1am Fri/Sat. 11 Maxwell Street, Stirling, FK8 1JU. Tel: 01786 478264. www.facebook.com 22
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NO. 2 BAKEr STrEET just a few mins walk from the station and the castle. The pub is oozing with character with its wooden beams and pillars popular among both regulars and visitors alike. After a day of shopping, enjoy a glass of wine, a delicious meal or traditional real ale. Regular entertainment includes Quiz Night (Tues), Jam Night (Wed) and live music (Thurs) and at weekends. Tel: 01786 448722. 2 Baker Street, Stirling, FK8 1BJ.
DrOUTHY NEEBOrS is a well known and much loved local gem! The bar takes its name from Robert Burns’ most famous poem “Tam O’Shanter” Fresh home cooked food, a superb selection of drinks, a down to earth style of service with real attention to detail, the best in local music all help Drouthys keep leading the way! This quirky little spot has live local music every Fri/Sat night Tel: 01786 450858. 7 Baker Street, FK8 1BJ www.drouthyneebors-stirling.co.uk
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For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Stirling.com
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Eating Out • Shops • in Stirling MAMMA MiA riSTOrANTE iTAliANO: Friends from their home town of Bari in Puglia the southern region of Italy, along with their chef create their Italian cuisine “just like their Mamma used to Make” with the finest fresh ingredients, and fine wines, in traditional surroundings. To make a reservation Tel; 01786 446124 52 Spittal Street, Stirling, FK8 IDU www.mammamiastirling.co.uk
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HOliDAY iNN EXPrESS STirliNG is located next to the Forthside’s Sports Village, just minutes away from The Peak leisure centre, Stirling Albion football club, cinema, shops, restaurants and Stirling’s many visitor attractions. Complimentary continental breakfast with hot items, free parking and free WiFi in the bar make this friendly hotel a great value option. Reservastions on 01786 449922 or visit www.expressstirling.co.uk. Springkerse Business Park, Stirling.FK7 7XH
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What Makes Shopping Enjoyable? At the Stirling Arcade, we’ve got everything you need for an enjoyable shopping experience - a great mix of independent retailers and businesses offering quality products and friendly personal service. With its beautifully restored Victorian architecture and period features a visit to this Arcade is an experience all of its own. You can relax with a glass of wine whilst enjoying a freshly prepared meal or snack at one of the quality eateries. There are shops offering the latest fashions, must have accessories, traditional and niche gifts and much more, with a broad range of services available including beauty treatments, computer peripherals and leisure and fitness. At the Stirling Arcade traditional values combine with contemporary style to provide the City’s most unique shopping experience. Welcome to Shopping as it should be...
‘STirliNG BAGPiPES’ a family run business based in Stirling’s old town. A well-known Scottish bagpipe maker specialising in manufacturing and refurbishing Great Highland Bagpipes, Scottish Smallpipes and Border Pipes including a large collection of Antique bagpipes. A wide range of piping/drumming accessories, bagpipe tune books, tutor books and CD’s. One-stop shop for pipe bands and pipers. 8 Broad Street FK8 1EF Tel: 01786 448886 www.stirlingbagpipes.com
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EUrOPA MUSiC ‘Worth a visit to Stirling itself’ The List. Floor to ceiling music of all types; Scottish Folk, Rock, Pop, Punk, Jazz, Classical, Blues, Country etc. New and used CD’s, vinyl and DVD’s to buy or exchange. The largest browsable vinyl record collection in Scotland. Also T-shirts, books and memorabilia. OPEN 7 days. 10 Friars St, Stirling. Europa Mobile Disco for all functions. Tel/Fax: 01786 448623 www.facebook.com/europamusic
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Opening Times: “Open 7 days, 8 am to lateindividual opening times may vary (Sunday 10am onwards)” Enter off Murray Place & King Street Stirling. Tel: 01786450719. www.stirlingarcade.com
Mr SiMMS OlDE SWEET SHOPPE. There’s nothing to beat a good old traditional sweet shop. Choose from 400 jars of “weigh out” sweets, along with 80 varieties of pick ‘n’ mix. Indulge in 50 different flavours of exclusively made chocolate bars, 40 flavours of fudges and 50 varieties of liquorice. A range of imported sweets and drinks from the USA adds to the selection. 59 Port St, Stirling, FK8 2EW. Tel: 01786 358812 www.MrSimmsStirling.co.uk
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Dunblane
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A short walk through Dunblane’s past
A Dunblane Museum - well worth a visit. It is housed in the 1624 Deans House. Open Easter to mid-October Monday to Saturday 10.30am - 4.30pm. Occasionally Sundays in Summer. New Andy Murray Exhibition. Tel 01786 825691
B The Cross marks where the weekly markets & annual fairs were once held.
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C Dunblane Cathedral C13th. Open 1 April to 30 September Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 12.30pm; and 1.30pm to 5.00pm (last admission). Sunday 2.00pm to 5.00pm (last admission). Winter Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 4.00pm (last admission). Sunday 2.00pm to 4.00pm (last admission). Dunblane Cathedral is a working church it may be closed for services. Telephone 01786 823388
D The Medieval Bishop’s Palace - last inhabited in 1579.
E The Town’s Bleaching Green.
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G The Bridge built in 1410 and widened later, see the different stonework.
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The Town’s Meal Mill was located at the end of Mill Row.
H Allanside House the large white building nearest the bridge, was an C18th worship place for the ‘Auld Lichts’, a breakaway religious sect.
I The Leighton Library is the oldest private library in Scotland, dating from 1687. It was built for the 1,500 books of Robert Leighton, Bishop of Dunblane (16611670). The number of books has now grown to 4,500, covering a wide range of topics printed from 1504-1840. Open May to end of September: Monday, to Saturday 11am - 1pm and other times by arrangement with Tho. & J W Barty tel: 01786 822296.
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Colour Key
Places to Visit
Shops & Services
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Sport & leisur
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Bridge of Allan A9 & M9 from Perth
A84 from The Trossachs
M9 Junct 10
sg ow
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Ed inb urg h
&M
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Gla
The Beheading Stone
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Martyr’s Monument
M9
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Lady’s Rock
Mars Walk
Church of the Holy Rude
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Cowane’s Hospital
Town Wall
Spittal’s House
The King’s Knot
Stirling Smith Art Gallery
Town
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Eating Out
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Belhaven Trail
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Stirling University
Cash Machine
The National Wallace Monument
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A91 & A907 from Menstrie & Allo
Stirling Old Bridge
Bridgehaugh Park Cambuskenneth Cambuskenneth Abbey
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Bus Station 28
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Stirling Arcade
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Thistle’s Shopping Centre
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Š Explore Scotland Ltd 2013 Tel: 01796 473335 E/mail: info@explorescotland.net
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Explore Bridge of Allan 33
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36 Allan Water
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La Cucina
Bridge of Allan Historic Trail
Around 1854 Robert Louis Stevenson was a frequent visitor to the town. (See Darn Road Walk below.)
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Provost.
In the 1830’s, Bridge of Allan consisted of an old-fashioned Mill and Kiln (at point A), a wayside inn, a smithy and a few hovellooking huts. The success of the spa changed all this by 1868.
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At the Victorian Spa’s peak in the mid 1800’s, some 500 people per day would drink from the water that many believed cured a multitude of ailments :
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The main road through Bridge of Allan used to be a swamp! The original road can be reached by taking the footpath up the steps from the bridge behind Allan Water Café. You will find the Tollbar Stone along here, which once controlled access to the bridge
WElCOME TO VECCHiA BOlOGNA: A beautiful restaurant with a heavy Italian influence, located in a tranquil part of upper Bridge of Allan. Excellent parking facilities, an outside play area for children and an al fresco eating area. With views second to none and a restaurant decorated in keeping with the characters of a 150 year old building, this is the venue which can cater for a good value lunch for two, to a special celebration for 80. The varied menu includes classic Italian and continental dishes created from the most traditional of family recipes. Flexible with menu options and also opening times for larger group bookings. Mine Road, Bridge of Allan FK9 4DT. Tel: 01786 833617. www.vechhiabologna.co.uk Email: claudio@vecchiabologna.co.uk 33
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AllAN WATEr CAFE. Family run café for more than 100 years. It is famous for the Fish and Chips and the delicious home made Ice Cream, made daily on the premises. It is open for breakfast, lunch through to dinner. Take- away is also available. OPEN 7 days, all year 8am (9am Sun) to 9pm. 15 Henderson St. Bridge of Allan. Tel: 01786 833060
AllANWATEr BrEWHOUSE. “Voted Best Stirling Tourism Business 2013”. Watch the brewer producing their cask ales and bottled beers; traditionally crafted real ales using 100% natural ingredients. Free brewery tour and tastings of their award winners. Presentation beer packs named after famous battles and Scottish landmarks. Regular live music events. OPEN 7 days from 12noon. Free car park. Behind the Adamo Hotel in the main street. Tel: 01786 834555 www.bridgeofallan.co.uk
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The Provost’s (Mayor’s) Lamp is now situated at the Cross. It would have originally been placed outside the home of the
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The Paterson Clock is a memorial to one of the towns much loved characters, Alexander Paterson who was the local doctor and a distinguished botanist and horticulturalist. Charles Rennie MacIntosh designed the splendid chancel suite of the furniture in the Bridge of Allan Parish Church in 1904. The church is open from June-Sept, 10am – 4pm. The Fountain of Ninevah was erected by Mayor and town planner John Henderson in 1850 in honour of Sir Austin Lanyard who had made important discoveries in Ninevah in Mesopotamia.
lA CUCiNA set in the heart of Bridge of Allan, offers a good value lunch and early evening menu together with a small classical Italian a la carte menu. With emphasis on daily specials, to tantalise your taste buds and if you prefer something that’s not on the menu, providing they have the ingredients the chefs will cook up your favourite dish. See you soon! 69 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4HS Tel: 01786 834679. www.lacucinabridgeofallan.co.uk
ADAMO. Sophisticated dining and drinking. The best of Scottish produce served in stylish surroundings with a range of private spaces to allow for a dining experience with a difference. Bridge of Allan’s late night venue; EVA is the perfect destination to indulge after dinner. Adamo Bridge of Allan, 24 Henderson Street. Tel: 01786 833268. Adamo Stirling. 78 Upper Craigs, Stirling, Tel: 01786 430890. Both OPEN 9am till late. Adamo Hotels – www.adamohotels.com
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DArN rOAD WAlK. 4.5km (2.5 miles). Past the Allan Water Cafe onto Blairforkie Drive. Walk until you see the sign ‘Allan Walk’, then along this path, cross the wooden bridge at the bottom of the fields which takes you across the mouth of an old mine shaft. Follow the path down to the stream and cross the small bridge made of re-cycled plastic and stop and take in the view. Further along this path you will find ‘Stevensons Cave’ from where the inspiration for Treasure Island is said to have come. Cross over the pipe bridge and turn left downstream then follow the way marker uphill and over the railwaybridge then turn left. Walk past Milesy Bank schools and when you reach the main road turn left and follow the road back into town. 37
For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Stirling.com
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Explore Falkirk
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falKirK is a great town to visit, whether for shopping, eating out, exploring the heritage trail or visiting fantastic attractions such as the Falkirk Wheel and Callander House. There are many historical sites and relics to visit, including the impressive Antonine Wall, built by the Roman Army around AD142. Half of the wall, along with some ancient forts and fortlets, stretches 15 miles with in the Falkirk council boundary. The Antonine Wall has recently been awarded ‘World Heritage’ status. Bo’ness, just 7 miles east of Falkirk, was Scotland’s largest town in the 17th century. Today, in addition to many independent shops, cafes and restaurants, Bo’ness is home to many great family attractions including the Bo’ness & Kinneil railway, motor museum, Blackness castle & Kinneill House & estate. Kinneil House is open on selected days (see www.kinneil.org for details), but the museum is open all year round and features 2000 years of local history. Kinneil estate has several sites of interest including a Roman Fortlet, a medieval village, the Antonine Wall site and inventor, James Watt’s cottage – it was here he tested the prototypes of his revolutionary 40 steam engine. 6 nction Road M9 Ju From angemouth r A904 G
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© ‘Falkirk Delivers’ For more details on Falkirk Town Centre visit www.falkirkdelivers.com
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FAlKirK TOWN CENTrE A trip to Central Scotland is not complete without a visit to Falkirk town centre. It has rightly gained a reputation for being one of the finest shopping destinations in Scotland. Businesses were recently awarded the accolade of providing the top customer service in the country. The BID area of the town centre boasts two large and attractive shopping centres, and a fully pedestrianised High Street, with all the leading national stores. Just off the High Street are the finest selection of local independent businesses including designer boutiques, gift shops, galleries…the list is almost endless. These speciality stores delight the millions of shoppers visiting Falkirk every year with their unique ranges of products.
THE FAW KirK (meaning “speckled church”). In the passing of time the town’s name changed to ‘Falkirk’ as we know it. The only two known graves of the Scottish Wars of Independence are here. Sir John de Graeme, William Wallace’s right hand man at the 1298 Battle of Falkirk. Also graves from the 1746 Jacobite Battle of Falkirk Muir when Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army defeated a government army. 41
Falkirk also has a fantastic selection of pubs, restaurants and nightclubs in the heart of the town centre. Visit www.falkirkdelivers.com
BO’NESS & KiNNEil rAilWAY AND THE MUSEUM OF SCOTTiSH rAilWAYS Take a ten mile return journey by steam train from Bo’ness by the Firth of Forth into the West Lothian countryside. The Museum contains locomotives, carriages, wagons and many smaller exhibits telling the story of the railways in Scotland. For more information on timetables, buffet facilities and fares please visit www.bkrailway.co.uk or Tel: 01506 822298 / 825855. Bo’ness Station, Union Street, Bo’ness EH51 9AQ 44
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THE PiNEAPPlE (NTS): Built in 1761, stands 14m (45ft) high with the realistic effect of leaves & fruit produced by the cantilever masonry. Four stone vases disguise the chimneys. Greenhouses extended east & west from the central portico, originally heated by furnaces. The garden was planted in a typically Scottish manner with fruit trees. Set in 16 acres of garden/woodlands with a pond and a car park. OPEN grounds all year daily, 9.30 to sunset. Signposted off A905, 7mls from Falkirk, 7mls from Stirling. Tel: 0844 4932139
CAllENDAr HOUSE set in a magnificent park and woodland, tells stories spanning 2000 years. Costumed interpreters bring history to life, meet Cook in the working Georgian Kitchen. Discover the wealth of local culture, from the Roman remains of the Antonine Wall, up to the contemporary art and crafts in The Park Gallery. Visit the Gift Shop and Tearoom. OPEN Mon-Sat 10am-5pm (Sun 2-5pm, Apr-Sept). Callendar Park, Falkirk. Tel: 01324 503770 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org
THE HiPPODrOME, opened in March 1912 and was Scotland’s first purpose built Picture Palace. 100 years after the first customers took their seats in the cinema, the Hippodrome recreates the golden age of cinema-going using 21st century technology. OPEN 6 days a week: screening the best major new releases, independent films and classics. 10 Hope Street Bo’ness EH51 0AA. Box office tel: 01324 506850 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org 45
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THE FAlKirK WHEEl is a innovative rotating boat lift which connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal, replacing a series of 11 locks. It was decided to ask for schemes for a boat lift. Designs were submitted and the 24 metres (79 ft) wheel, roughly equivalent to the height of an eight-storey building won. On 24 May 2002, Queen Elizabeth II opened the Falkirk Wheel as part of her Golden Jubilee celebrations. Lime Road, Tamfourhill, FK1 4RS. Tel: 08700 500208. www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk
For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Stirling.com
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