The Childhood Home Of Mary Queen Of Scots - Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most important and impressive historic landmarks, with a history stretching back to the early 12th century. Although the castle has much older origins, most of the principal buildings that visitors see today were constructed during the 15th and 16th centuries. Its location on a dramatic rocky hilltop also gave it an important strategic position, overlooking the surrounding landscape.

Before the union of Scotland and England, Stirling Castle served as a principal royal residence of the Scottish monarchy. During times of peace, Scottish royalty came to Stirling to enjoy the castle’s comforts, hunt in the surrounding countryside, and hold court. The castle was more than a royal home—it was also an important center of government and political life in Scotland.

Throughout its long history, Stirling Castle has been closely connected to some of Scotland’s most important kings, queens, and historical events. Today, visitors can explore its grand halls, royal apartments, courtyards, and gardens while learning about Scotland’s royal heritage. With its impressive architecture, dramatic setting, and fascinating history, Stirling Castle offers a glimpse into the lives of Scotland’s former rulers.

Here is what caught my eye, I hope you enjoy!

The exterior of the Royal Palace where Mary Queen of Scotts grew up and also gave birth.

Heads of previous battle victims were placed on poles and posted outside the castle to discourage others from starting battle.

The exterior of the Great Hall

Do you like the images posted?
Click here to explore the shop.

The exterior of the Royal Palace

.

The Great Hall, completed around 1503, was the castle’s huge reception room and the largest of its kind built in Scotland. The royal couples would hold banquets in this space.

The detail of the hammer beam roof of the Great Hall.

The beautiful leaded stained glass windows in the Great Hall.

The exterior of the Great Hall

.

The bridge built between the Queen’s chamber and the Great Hall.

During the war of Independence, the castle changed hands eight times in 50 years.

The interior of the Chapel Royal which was built in 1594 for Christening of Prince Henry, the first-born son of King James VI and the heir to the thrown.

.

.

The Stirling Heads are one of Scotland’s great art treasures. 16th-century oak medallions carved with images of kings, queens, nobles, Roman emperors and Bible and mythological characters.

Some of the bizarre figures of the castle facade

.

The Queen’s Outer Hall

.

The Queen’s Inner Hall

The bedchamber of the Queen

.

The King’s outer hall

The King’s bedchamber

The King’s bedroom ceiling

.

The Stirling Heads on the ceiling

.

The Great Kitchen

The castle with the Mountain View in the distance

The view of the Palace from the Queen Anne Garden

The guide told the group that saying, ‘no thank you’ to a Queen at dinner was not an option, if you were full, a birds feather down your throat would remedy the situation, and you could eat again. But if the Queen happened to eat quick, you were also done, and the table was cleared.

What you should know:

• There are walkways thoughout the castle complex.

• Public restrooms are available.

• Tickets can be bought on-line or in person.

• Check the website for days and hours of operation, and any special events.

• You could spend a couple of hours to an entire day here, depending on your level of interest.

• People are friendly and helpful.

• Most of the castle buildings and grounds are self-guided.

• There are a few shop and food option on the premises.

• There is parking on the premises.

Location: Castle Wind, Stirling FK8 1EJ

For more information: Stirling Castle