5 Fantastic day trips from Stirling

Time from Stirling: 50-minute bus journey

Callander, which sits on the River Teith near Stirling, is a hive of activity throughout the year. Enjoy a trip down memory lane and discover The Hamilton Toy Museum. Open Monday to Saturday, it is one of the largest privately owned toy collections in the UK. With five nostalgia-filled rooms, a visit here will make you feel like a big kid with everything from miniature toy cars and trains to dolls and bears.

Head out onto the water with Loch Katrine Cruises or get your walking boots on and take a leisurely stroll through Bracklinn Falls and Callander Crags. For the more experienced hillwalkers, take on Ben Ledi where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Loch Lubnaig and the surrounding hills. Make sure to bring a compass and map with you as the route isn’t waymarked. If you’re looking for music that’s good for the soul, The Callander Jazz & Blues Festival rolls into town in early October.

Time from Stirling: 30-minute bus journey

We’ve got two locations lined up for your next day trip! First up, it’s Deanston, a village that sits on the south bank of the River Teith, east of Doune. Get a flavour for Scotland’s national drink by booking a behind-the-scenes tour at Deanston Distillery. Learn more about where and how its Scotch whisky is made and to finish off, sample a few drams in the dedicated tasting room.

Just another short bus journey away is Doune, home to Argaty Red Kites. This is Scotland’s only red kite feeding station where the RSPB and Scottish Natural Heritage have reintroduced the red kite. You’ll get the chance to watch these spectacular birds in flight. History is also on the agenda where Doune Castle plays a starring role in the hit TV series Outlander as the well-known fictional Castle Leoch. The castle is currently undergoing work with restrictions in some areas, but you can still explore the magnificent 14th century courtyard and greats halls. On a clear day, make the most of Doune’s natural surroundings with plenty of walks nearby, from The Commonty walk to Doune Ponds.

Time from Stirling: 5-minute train, 20-minute bus journey

For many visitors, venturing out into the outdoors is part and parcel of experiencing Scotland’s natural beauty. Here in Bridge of Allan, there are plenty of outdoor activities to sink your teeth into. Swing by Bridge of Allan Golf Club and go head-to head with your nearest and dearest. The 9-hole golf course is available to play on all year round with spectacular views of the Stirling area. If you’re a non-member, make sure to bring your own equipment on the day including golf shoes and clubs. For climbing enthusiasts, set your heights high at Wolfcrag Quarry. Don’t worry if you prefer having two feet firmly on the ground, Bridge of Allan offers a range of walking routes. Allanwater River is a fairly flat route, but for a more challenging hike, the Ochils and Dumyat treats walkers to an abundance of wildlife, waterfalls and mesmerising views.

A day in the great outdoors can be thirsty work. Make sure to pop by Allanwater Brewhouse and learn more about the magical process of brewing with natural ingredients while enjoying a pint of beer or cider.

Time from Stirling: 10-minute train, 20-minute bus

Dunblane is situated just a few miles north of Stirling and offers good transport links in and out of the town. Enjoy a spot of history and culture by visiting Dunblane Cathedral. As you enter, walk among the choir stalls dating from the 1400s and gaze up at the four-storey red sandstone tower where you’ll be blown away by its marvellous interior design. If you’re looking for walks on your doorstep, the Kippenrait Glen is the perfect walking route for all ages and abilities. The walk, which lies between Dunblane and Bridge of Allan, is 8.5 km (5.3 miles) and takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete with lots of woodland paths and tracks to explore en route. Perhaps food and drink is on the menu today? Look no further than The Kailyard by Nick Nairn for an unforgettable dining experience. Get ready to indulge in mouth-watering Scottish dishes created with celebrity chef Nick Nairn’s trademark twist.

Keep your eyes peeled for the town’s famous post box which was painted gold to commemorate Andy Murray’s Olympic medal triumph in 2012.

Time from Stirling: 10-minute train and 20-minute bus

Clackmannanshire can be found between the Ochil Hills and the River Forth. It’s a fantastic base for those who wish to seek outdoor adventures, explore medieval castles and tower houses and marvel at impressive art sculptures. Enjoy a history lesson like no other by visiting Clackmannanshire’s four medieval towers and manor house on the Tower Trail. The trail consists of Alloa Tower, Clackmannan Tower, Castle Campbell, Sauchie Tower and Menstrie Castle, all built near the royal court in Stirling to showcase the wealth and status of the most distinguished families in medieval Scotland.

You might be familiar with sculptor Andy Scott’s The Kelpies and if you have an eye for all things art, you’re in luck! Clackmannanshire is home to more of his greatest sculptures on the Andy Scott Public Art Trail which reflect the area’s industrial past and innovative future. You’ll also find a range of local producers selling high quality products. Stock up on sweet treats at The Ochil Fudge Pantry or sample craft beers from Williams Bros. Brewing Co..