Stirling and Doune Castles

Historic Scotland membership is great value for money, but to make it even better why not visit 2 sites in one day?

First stop was Stirling Castle, a place I have been several times in the past.

Robert the Bruce statue outside Stirling Castle

Forework and circular towers

Colours of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders in the regimental museum

One of the Stirling Heads which adorned the ceiling of the King's Inner Hall in the palace.

Stirling Castle commands a vantage point over the surrounding land

Eight miles to the north-west of Stirling lies Doune Castle, home of Robert of Albany, Regent of Scotland from 1388 till 1420.

The castle has taken on a new role in more recent times, recognisable to many as one of the location used in the making of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, along with other films and television dramas.

Doune Castle

Great Hall with central fire basket

The Lord's Hall, with timber panelling and minstrel's gallery above

Saltire flying from the top of the castle

View of the kitchen from inside the large fireplace

Courtyard and well

Stirling Castle

A great excuse for a trip to Stirling, not that one is needed, but here are the first photos from my brand new Canon 500D, my first ever digital SLR.

While in town we paid a visit to the castle. The building has been completely transformed since my last visit, probable some time in the 1970's. Historic Scotland has presented many rooms as they would probably have looked during the reign of King James V in the 16th century.

Stirling Castle forework

Arches

Canons guarding the castle to the south and west

Inside the palace

Fine tapestries and rugs decorate the chambers

Queen Mary's inner chamber

The Great Hall