The historic Scottish city of Stirling has been named the best place in the UK to visit in 2026 by the influential publication Time Out. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, Glasgow and Edinburgh, Stirling was praised as an "underrated gem" with "immense historical sights" and extraordinary access to natural landscapes.
A Game-Changing New Rail Link
The city's accolade was significantly bolstered by the announcement of a new, direct low-cost rail service connecting it to London. From May 2026, the operator Lumo will run five daily trains on a route with 11 stops between London Euston and Stirling.
This marks the first ever direct service linking three stations—Whifflet, Greenfaulds and Larbert—with the UK capital. Dubbed the 'Ryanair of trains' for its budget-friendly approach, Lumo's tickets are expected by experts to be "certainly cheaper" than existing LNER services, making a trip north far more accessible.
Why Stirling is a Must-Visit Gem
With the smallest population of Scotland's cities, Stirling is frequently overlooked, but those in the know champion its unique appeal. Travel blogger Victoria, known as The Girl on the Move, calls it an ideal spot for a relaxed city break, while blogger Kathi from Watch Me See insists it "deserves much more attention".
The city's skyline is dominated by the magnificent Stirling Castle, perched on a volcanic rock. Adult tickets cost £18.50 (or £11 for children when booked online), offering a deep dive into Scottish royal history, including its association with Mary, Queen of Scots.
A short walk away, the cobbled streets of the Old Town and the immersive Old Town Jail provide a vivid journey into the past. The iconic Wallace Monument on Abbey Craig hill offers panoramic views, while the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre presents a ground-level alternative rich in history.
Nature, Food and Where to Stay
Stirling's position as the "gateway to the Highlands" means stunning scenery is on the doorstep. The Ochil Hills, peaking at 2,365 ft on Ben Cleuch, offer hiking for all abilities. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and Blair Drummond Safari Park are also within easy reach for day trips.
The city boasts a thriving food and drink scene. Visitors can sample local Scottish cuisine at Brea, enjoy afternoon tea at Fletchers, or grab a burger at Monterey Jack's. Traditional pubs like Nicky Tams and the Settle Inn are perfect for a "wee dram".
Accommodation ranges from historic hotels like the 19th-century Stirling Highland Hotel and the contemporary Hotel Colessio, to boutique guest houses like Friars Wynd and budget-friendly chains such as Travelodge and Premier Inn in the city centre.
With its compelling mix of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and new, affordable transport links, Stirling is poised to step out of the shadows and become a leading destination for British travellers in 2026.
