The Essential Bike Tour of Historic Stirling & Beyond
Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 11 miles/18km
Difficulty level: The Stirling Route has some significant inclines. I would suggest an E Bike to those who are not day to day cyclists.
By using one of Scotland’s finest inventions, the pedal bicycle, and utilising an excellent network of designated cycle lanes and quiet roads we can travel through the history and stunning landscape of this ancient capital of Scotland.
We will ride out of the city centre and immediately visit an unknown sight of incredible historical importance at Cambuskenneth Abbey. Founded in 1140 and dismantled in 1560... Is this the final resting place of Braveheart - Sir William Wallace?
We will also be able to visit the breathtaking Wallace Monument, a symbol of Scottish nationalism and home to the best views out across the City of Stirling, The Forth Valley and the Ochil Mountains.
We will visit a seat of Scottish learning by pedalling through the nature and wonder of one of the most beautiful university campuses on earth discussing Scotland’s unmatched influence on the world.
Making our way back towards the Old Town across the famous Stirling Bridge we will discuss the battle that took its name from this iconic place. We will be able to experience the cliff top Stirling Castle from all angles as well as vistas of the distant peaks of the Trossachs National Park.
Climbing into the old town we see and discuss several of its most important ancient buildings before finally making our way to the impressive castle walls for more glorious views.
We will discuss ancient folklore, local heroes, triumphs, tragedies, art, sport, invention and science. Getting to know each other as well as the city and country that surrounds us.
At around the half way point, there will be an option to stop for a coffee or other refreshments at a charming local cafe with its own stunning views.
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Size specific Standard bicycle or E Bike.
Helmet
Qualified, experienced and well equipped guide (Myself, Stuart)
I will take photographs that I can share with group after the tour.
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Check the forecast and if required bring a waterproof jacket. Reusable water bottle is handy, bottle cages provided on all bikes. I would suggest flat soled shoes.
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All participants must be able to pedal, stop and turn a bicycle. Failure to show the basics of bicycle control may result in your experience being ended for your safety and the safety of others.
Meeting Point:
Stirling Train Station. Goosecroft Lane. Stirling Bus Station is next door. Parking available nearby.
✺ Frequently asked questions ✺
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I have curated the route to be as easy as it can be, but Stirling is a city built on hills and there will be some steep, prolonged inclines to tackle. If you are in any doubt, you can choose an E Bike and forgo any challenges. Our pace will always be relaxed and in 6 years I have never left anyone behind! Cycling is relative, if you would like my advice, get in touch.
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Stirling has a myriad of well signed and separated bicycle lanes which keep us out of traffic. To get to the best parts of the city we will use these the vast majority of the time and only link the lanes up with quiet stretches of road. My overriding priority at every moment of our tour is the safety of my guests and the route we take emphasises this.
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For my tours, helmets are mandatory. The safer my guests can be the better it is for them, others and myself. Helmets will be provided.
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Children under the age of 13 are not permitted on the scheduled tours but can be booked as private tours. If the child is confident at cycling then they are absolutely welcome on a private tour and the logistics can be discussed before hand. E Bikes are for 14 years and over by law.
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Absolutely! Just let me know in advance so I don’t arrive with a bicycle for you.
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A question I have been asked more times that any other! Simply put, sometimes I know and sometimes I don’t. Stirling has been built up over 1600 years so feel free to ask the age of any wall you see and I will try my best!