Want to experience the City of Stirling on a budget? Check out these top five tips from Emily, a third year Criminology and Sociology student here at the University of Stirling.
Stirling has so much to offer, and often many of the best experiences don’t cost a penny! Hopefully, I can provide you with some inspiration of some really great things you can do whilst in Stirling – all for free.
1. Walks, walks and more walks!
Stirling has stunning scenery and views. That’s why one of the best free things you can do in Stirling is getting out on a walk to explore!
There’s literally something around every turn – from a wolf statue watching over the town above TJ’s restaurant, to walking around Riverside and learning about the historic quay and Stirling’s dock past.
In Stirling, there’s always something new to discover, no matter how long you’ve lived here! Or perhaps you’d rather stick closer to campus and have a walk around the loch, head up Dumyat or explore the neighbouring town of Bridge of Allan.
2. Or maybe a bike ride instead…
Whilst exploring all Stirling has to offer on foot is a great option, why not head out on a bike?
It’s an amazing way to see the city and surrounding area – especially on a nice summer day. If you have your own bike that’s great. But if not, don’t fear! Stirling has its own bike scheme: Nextbike. There are stations dotted all over the place, including on-campus, near the Old Bridge, next to the train station and more.
The best bit is that, as a student, you can access this scheme for free! It’s an amazing way of getting to and from town, or exploring a little further afield.
3. Visit Stirling Castle
Stirling is full of history, and what better place to learn about it than at Stirling Castle!
While visiting the castle, you can learn about the history of Stirling and also enjoy some fantastic views across Stirling and the surrounding hills, too.
The best bit is that if you live in the Stirling Ancient Burgh area (which can you find out by emailing stirlingcastle@hes.scot), you can get in for free!
4. Climb the Wallace Monument
The Wallace Monument offers fabulous views across Stirling and the University campus.
Although the steep hill up to the top can be tiring, it’s totally worth it – and there is a minibus shuttle that can take up to the monument itself and back down to the entrance/café. Inside the monument, you can learn more about the history of Stirling, see William Wallace’s sword and even design your own family shield.
If you can show proof that you are a Stirling resident, then you can enjoy all the monument has to offer for free.
5. Take a trip to Stirling Smith Museum and Art Gallery
The Stirling Smith Museum and Art Gallery is free to get into.
It offers a small art gallery and a museum that has many interesting items. One of the most notable is the world’s oldest football! It’s definitely worth a look round and is a great thing to do on a rainy day.
If the weather is a bit better, the museum also has a lovely garden with various sculptures and is a nice spot to sit and watch the world go by.