Explore the ancient city of Stirling, an Augustine priory, and follow in the steps of Scotland's most famous outlaw, Rob Roy.
Rob Roy MacGregor lived and died among the stunning landscapes of the Trossachs. That was nearly three hundred years ago when Scotland was fighting the English. He helped the poor at the expense of the rich, roaming the country stealing cattle, robbing folk right left and centre, and generally being a thoroughly bad lad. There were those who acclaimed him and others who said he was a villain. Today, thanks in part to Liam Neeson’s portrayal of him in the movie “Rob Roy”, he is a local hero once again and there are signs all over the place referring to the region as ‘Rob Roy Country’
Scotland - Gateway to the Highlands
This part of Scotland is where the Highlands start. The hills lie layer upon layer with gently rounded peaks, ranging from the rich dark red of bracken to layers of deep dark green from the coniferous forests. They seem to go on for ever and it’s not hard to imagine how easy it must have been for Rob Roy to lie low here after his various exploits.
Scotland - The Historic Town of Stirling
The Trossachs region lies in the central part of Scotland and Stirling is an ideal base from which to explore the area. This is a seriously ancient town. there has been a fortress here since prehistoric times and the present day castle, like all the others, is perched on a rock high above the city - ready to pounce on any invaders. The castle has a turbulent history and is one of the grandest of the many castles in Scotland.
Scotland - Stirling Castle might be a good place to start your exploration. Stroll up to the castle via the Back Walk. a footpath which follows the old town walls and from which you get a good view of the city. These walls are the best surviving walls in Scotland. The walk follows the wall from Dumbarton Road to the castle where it winds around Castle Rock and back to the Old Town, which is attractive and good for a stroll.
Just half a mile north of the town centre is Stirling Old Bridge which was built around 1500 and spans the River Forth. In 1571 a gallows was built in the middle of the bridge in order to hang a certain Archbishop Hamilton. In spite of its gory past, it’s a peaceful spot.
Scotland - Inchmahome Priory
Another place to see is Inchmahome Priory which is situated in the middle of what is referred to as the only ‘Lake’ in Scotland - all the others are ‘Lochs’. It is a ruined Augustine priory, founded in 1238 and is a great place to spend a few hours. King Robert the Bruce visited on a number of occasions in the fourteenth century and it was briefly the home of Mary Queen of Scots. It is reached by boat that leaves every fifteen minutes for the short crossing from Port of Menteith, which is near Aberfoyle. The island is quite small, about 75 metres in any direction. It is wooded and peaceful. Take a picnic and enjoy!
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