Stirling & Bannockburn

Stirling & Bannockburn

Posted: Sep 15, 2021 | Updated: May 6, 2022

On 24th June 1314 the greatest victory in Scotland's struggle to remain independent from the English took place at the Battle of Bannockburn. Robert the Bruce overcame superior numbers and sent King Edward II's English force fleeing for their lives.

The battle of Bannockburn was undoubtedly of one of the most spectacular battles of the Scottish Wars of Independence. Although the struggle against the English was to continue for some 13 years more, the Scottish victory was of enormous importance as it secured the future of the throne for Robert Bruce, King of Scots.

The city of Stirling and its surrounding area looms large in Scottish history and hearts for, with its pivotal position between the Lowlands and Highlands, it has seen great deeds against the English. William Wallace pursued his freedom struggle here and is commemorated by a gigantic monument overlooking Bannockburn.

A word about William Wallace, if you've seen 'Braveheart' and done only a little bit of reading around the subject you will know that there is a lot of nonsense in this film.


The Highlights

  1. Battle of Bannockburn there is not much to see on the supposed battlefield, but the visitor centre is informative
  2. Stirling Castle the key to Scotland, and dating back to the 14th century, though much is 15th and 16th century with the outer walls from the 18th - this isn't fleeing English soldiers saw at Bannockburn 

Posted: Aug 26, 2006 | Updated: Dec 3, 2021

Stirling

After stopping off at the field of Bannockburn, Stirling was only a short trip away. OId cobbled Stirling is atmospheric in itself but a trip to the castle and a guided tour is not only an enjoyable excursion but also helps to put in perspective why this city and castle were important and the role they played in the fateful Battle of Bannockburn.

Stirling castle makes an interesting castle as parts of it date back to at least the 14th century and the recreation of the old kitchen gives a good impression of what castle and kitchen life was like. The guide on the tour was an excellent source of information and stories. Obviously enthusiastic and willing to take questions, it was impossible not to warm to this character who appeared so immersed in his subject.

1) Entrance to Stirling castle
2) The Wallace Monument
3) The oldest gate in Stirling castle
4) Kitchens of Stirling castle
5) Stirling Castle
6) Old Stirling

Posted: Aug 26, 2006 | Updated: Dec 3, 2021

Bannockburn

This represented my first trip to Scotland and encompassed visits to Stirling and St Fillans. The main purpose was to do some white water rafting in St Fillans but on the way there Stirling and historic Bannockburn needed a look in also. Bannockburn has a visitor centre that tells the story of the battle and the battle field itself tries to indicate the main locations of the battle. In reality the exact battle site isn't known with full certainty.

1) Robert the Bruce's command post

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