Stirling, Scotland's smallest city, has been named the best place to visit in the UK by Time Out, beating Edinburgh, Portmerion and London's the Strand. The publication praised its 'immense historical sights' and 'access to extraordinary landscapes', calling its greatness 'legendary'. Last year, Rightmove also ranked Stirling the happiest place to live in Scotland.
Getting There: Lumo Trains and Affordable Fares
Part of the surge in attention comes from improved connectivity. Train operator Lumo, dubbed the 'Ryanair of trains', launched a new route to Stirling last month, linking the city directly with London Euston. Fares start from as little as £29.90, a fraction of the cost of LNER and Avanti tickets previously available.
First Impressions of Stirling Highland Hotel
Metro's journalist arrived after a journey involving delays and dehydration but was thrilled by the short five-minute walk from the station to the Stirling Highland Hotel. The location is ideal, on the edge of town and a short stroll from Stirling Castle. The building, dating from 1856, originally served as a school before becoming a hotel in 1990. It features an observatory tower with a working telescope, built in the late 1880s, with tours available via The Royal Astrological Society. Tartan carpets announce the Scottish setting, and the hotel is dog-friendly.
Rooms: Simple but Comfortable
Rooms are standard but clean and comfortable. A twin room starts at £75 per night. Features include two beds, a desk, a full-length mirror (a rarity, the journalist noted), tea-making facilities, and shower gel. The standout feature was a window spanning the entire wall, offering a mountain view that was 'pretty special' for a visiting Londoner. The window could be opened.
Food and Drink: Decent Dining
Breakfast and dinner are served in The Scholars Restaurant, with a bar area as an alternative. While not destination dining (locals recommend Brea or Fletchers), the pasta was 'perfectly decent'. Breakfast is a full Scottish buffet, including potato scones, which the journalist described as a 'delicacy' and 'did not disappoint'. There are pastries, cereals, and haggis available, though coffee is from a machine.
Spa and Leisure Facilities
The four-star hotel's spa is modest, with a swimming pool, small sauna, and jacuzzi (which produced bubbles for only 10 minutes before needing a 10-minute break). There is a decent-sized gym and treatment rooms for massages, manicures, and brow threading. The spa was clean and not too busy.
Final Verdict
The Stirling Highland Hotel is a friendly spot in a great location at the 'top' of town. It appeals to foreign tourists wanting olde-worldly Scotland with comfort. While not a luxury stay, its location, staff, and historic building elevate the experience. The journalist said they would stay again. Check-in is at 3pm, check-out at 11am. There is accessible entrance with a ramp, accessible rooms, and a lift. The hotel is perfect for couples and friend trips, but not for those seeking ultimate luxury.
