THE rOYAL BUrGH OF CULrOSS was a thriving community in the C16th and C17th with mines, iron works and salt panning. Today it is a unique time capsule of a C17th Scottish town, with cobbled streets, harled houses & pantiled roofs. OPEN: Culross Palace, Study, Town House and Tearoom: 1st April to 31 Oct, Thurs-Mon, 12-5pm; Closed Tues/Wed (Jun - Aug, open daily) NTS. Admission applies to non-members. Off the A985, 16mls from Stirling. Tel: 0844 4932189

1 DEANSTON DISTILLErY VISITOr CENTrE: Whisky tours and tastings of the Deanston Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, next to the River Teith, 8 miles from Stirling. Your chance to visit and experience the sights, smells and sounds of a true working distillery where you can see how a hand craft whisky is produced. Deanston Whisky is sweet, fruity with a malty honeyed spiciness on the palate.

The Distillery Shop has whiskies and gifts. The Coffee Bothy is where you can enjoy a selection of wholesome food, daily specials, light lunches, teas, coffees and scrumptious cake. OPEN all year, 7 days, 10am to 5pm. Standard, Classic, Tasting Room and Hand Crafted Guided tours. Deanston by Doune, Stirling, FK16 6AG Tel: 01786 843 010. www.deanstonmalt.com

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STIrLING SMITH ArT GALLErY AND MUSEUM You haven’t seen Stirling till you’ve seen the Smith – it’s the soul of Stirling. Home to the world’s oldest football and curling stone. Social and art history of Stirling. Café, shop, gardens, picnic area.OPEN Tues to Sat 10.30 – 5pm, Sun 2-5pm. Free admission and parking. Tel 01786 471 917www.smithartgalleryandmuseum.co.uk

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WILLIAM WALLACE - Follow the story of Scotland’s National Hero, from the triumph of the battlefield to the tragedy of his betrayal and capture. Discover how the Battle of Stirling Bridge was fought, and how Wallace won the hearts of a nation, who built The National Wallace Monument to commemorate his life. See the Wallace sword in the famous Hall of Heroes, and enjoy the amazing views from the Crown. Free parking, courtesy bus service to/from The Monument, Audio Tour, Woodland Walks and Nature Trails (Complimentary map available), Souvenir and Gift Shops, and regular presentations by costumed historians. Relax in Legends Coffee House, set directly beneath the Monument, and serving speciality coffees, soft drinks, freshly made sandwiches, and cakes. OPEN daily all year (Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day). Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Causewayhead, Stirling FK9 5LF. Tel: 01786 472140 www.nationalwallacemonument.com for further information, including details of special events.

4 ALLOA TOWEr Dating back to the 15thC, it was the ancestral home of the Earls of Mar and was extensively altered in the early 18thC. The tower retains its underground dungeon. Follow the story of one of Scotlands most powerful families, the Erskines, with an Audio Visual presentation. Superb furniture and portraits. OPEN 1 April to 31 Oct daily, 1-5pm. Admission applies to non NTS members - become a member when you visit. An NTS property. Alloa, FK10 1PP (signposted off the A907).Tel: 0844 493219 www.nts.org.uk

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THE BATTLE OF BANNOCKBUrN Prepare for battle at the this brand new thrilling experience. With cutting edge 3D technology, you can experience medieval combat like never before and discover more about this crucial event in Scottish history. OPEN all year round. Visits are by timed ticket, book online in advance at www.battleofbannockburn.com. Tel: 0844 493 2139 On A872, 2 miles South of Stirling.

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STIrLING OLD TOWN TOUr Rated 5 Stars on Trip Advisor!

A hilarious mix of comedy, drama and storytelling with costumed local guides. Meet: Cowan’s HospitalDeparts: May, June & Sept (Saturday & Sunday) July & August (Wed – Sun) 2pm & 4pmTickets: On-line, from your guide or tourist Information. www.stirlingwalkingtours.com

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Visit STErLING MILLS OUTLET SHOPPING VILLAGE have a look around and discover what makes Sterling Mills a unique shopping destination. You’ll find us at the foot of the stunning Ochil Hills, not far from Stirling, and an easy car ride from most of central Scotland. With FREE parking, a kids play park and loads of family events taking place throughout the year, shopping at Sterling Mills is a breath of fresh air. Find famous brands you love for less, M&S Outlet, Nike Factory Store, adidas/Reebok, GAP Outlet, Home Bargains, Thorntons, Pavers Shoes, Charles Clinkard, Trespass, Mountain Warehouse and many more! OPEN: 7 days, 10am to 6pm Devon Vale, Tillicoultry FK13 6HQTel: 01259 752 100 www.sterlingmills.com

7 CAMBUSKENNETH ABBEY, an Augustinian Abbey, was founded in 1140 by King David I. Now all a ruin except its tower. Descriptive plaques will help you unravel its past. Free Admission. OPEN Summer only (April to September) Mon to Sat 9.30am to 6pm & Sundays 2pm to 6pm. Historic Scotland. Access over the foot bridge at the end of Shore Road and Abbey Road. (Map Grid: D1)

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2014/2015www.explorescotland.net

exploreStirling & Forth Valley

Including Bridge of Allan, Dunblane and Clackmannanshire

Cal l or book Onl ine! Tel : 01786-81-11-11 STIRLING’S LARGEST TAXI COMPANY

MAHArAJA AUTHENTIC INDIAN CUISINE take great care in producing distinctive traditional curries related to Northern India. A number of curries that have never been cooked in Stirling before. Unique signature dishes along with popular British curries. Excellent reviews on Trip Advisor. OPEN 7 days Mon to Thurs 12 to 2.30pm and 5 to 11pm. Sat 12 to 11pm. Sun 1.00 to 10pm. 39 King Street, FK8 1DN Tel: 01786 470728 www.MaharajaStirling.com

10 WELCOME TO THE STIrLING BELHAVEN PUB TrAIL: The City Walls, Morrison’s Cold Beer Co,The Corn Exchange, No.2 Baker Street,

Drouthy Neebors and Molly Malone’s: Proud of the company’s Scottish heritage, Belhaven Pubs are renowned for excellent value and service regardless of the size or style of venue. Offering a wide range of beers, wines and freshly prepared food. Follow the purple footsteps on the page 5 town map.

THE GOLDEN CrOWN has an excellent reputation for its Chinese and Cantonese cuisine. Operated by the same family for 40 years, it’s Stirling’s original Chinese Restaurant, offering over 160 dishes from their fabulous menu. Relax in their warm and friendly restaurant, visit the take-away or simply telephone for home deliveries. OPEN daily 12noon to 2pm and 5pm to 10pm (11pm Fri/Sat). 23-25 Barnton St, Stirling. Tel: 01786 473984 or 01786 446336

11 MOLLY MALONE’S offers a touch of the Emerald Isle, so join in the ‘Spirit of the Irish!’ Live music with Emerald-style floor service to encourage singing, dancing and romancing! Full menu of Irish, Scottish and British favourites served 11am to 9pm (children welcome before 8pm). “The best pint of Guinness, at the best price in town” OPEN Sun-Thurs 11am to midnight and till 1am Fri/Sat. 11 Maxwell Street, Stirling, FK8 1JU. Tel: 01786 478264. www.facebook.com

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BrEA has over 200 excellent reviews on Trip Advisor. Famous for its gourmet burgers, delicious seafood and handcraft beers like Brew Dog, Fallen Brewing or Fyne Ales. OPEN all week 11am - 9.30pm for lunch and dinner. Lunch deal - meal + soft drink £7.95, meal + alc drink (bottle of beer or sml glass of wine) £9.95. Enjoy their fantastic freshly made food, friendly service and great beer. 5 Baker Street, Stirling, FK8 1BJ Tel: 01786 446277

13 NO. 2 BAKEr STrEET a traditional Scottish pub with a broad selection of cask ales. The pub is oozing with character with its wooden beams and pillars popular among both regulars and visitors alike. Regular entertainment includes Quiz Night (Tues), Jam Night (Wed) and live music (Thurs) & bands at weekends. Tel: 01786 448722. 2 Baker Street, Stirling, FK8 1BJ.

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FILLING STATION is an all-American restaurant and bar in the heart of Stirling, offering authentic flavours of the USA from the East Coast to the West. It is casual dining at its best, where the food will always be good, the vibe always upbeat and the service second to none. Choose from a selection of wraps, burgers, pizzas, salads, grills, the ever popular sizzling fajitas, plus lots more. OPEN 9.00am until late. 1-7 Dumbarton Road. Tel: 01786 472 820

15 DrOUTHY NEEBOrS is a well known and much loved local gem! The bar takes its name from Robert Burns’ most famous poem “Tam O’Shanter” Fresh home cooked food, a superb selection of drinks, a down to earth style of service with real attention to detail, the best in local music all help Drouthys keep leading the way! This quirky little spot has live local music every Fri/Sat night Tel: 01786 450858. 7 Baker Street, FK8 1BJ www.drouthyneebors-stirling.co.uk

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Mediterranean food at the MEDITErrANÉA rESTAUrANT. Simple, fresh food and a fantastic choice of wines. A wide selection of Eastern Mediterranean and Greek meze/tapas style dishes. Regular live entertainment! Mon - open Jam Sessions. Salsa and DJ nights. 4 Viewfi eld Place, Stirling, FK8 1NQ, Tel: 01786 478 534. www.mediterranearestaurant.comOFFER: 2 FOR 1 ON ALL MEDITERRANEAN MEZE/ TAPAS DISHES ON TUES, WITH THIS ADVERT.

17 MOrrISON’S COLD BEEr CO in the listed building that was once the city’s post office. Over 30 different beers and lagers, cool cocktails and over 200 single malt and blended whiskies. Food is served 12pm-9pm. Big screen TV’s showing SKY Sports and a giant screen showing major events. Outdoor patio area with heaters. 84-86 Murray Place, Stirling, FK8 2BX. Tel: 01786 463 524. www.coldbeercompany-stirling.co.uk

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COrrIErI’S PIZZErIA AND FISH & CHIP SHOP Owned by a Scottish-Tuscan family for over 50 years. Producing all their own pizza dough, pasta dishes, garlic breads and much more, from fresh ingredients sourced daily. Traditional Italian Ice Cream. Table Licence. Reasonably priced 6 page menu, catering for the whole family.OPEN 6 days, 10am to 10.30pm, closed Tuesday.7 Alloa Rd, Causewayhead. www.corrieris.co.uk

19 THE CITY WALLS is located within the ancient fortifications of Stirling on the ‘Back Walk’. Stylish interior with roof-top beer terrace, perfect for eating and dining al fresco on warm days. Breakfast, lunch and dinner menus feature pub classics and Scottish favourites. Families are very welcome. 10 big screens with SKY sports! Wines, spirits, chilled beers and over 30 malt whiskies. OPEN till midnight Sunday-Thursday and 1am Friday/Saturday. Regular entertainment. Back Walk, Stirling, FK8 2QA Tel: 01786 451063

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KILTED KANGArOO - Australian Bar & Grill House. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a great selection of Drinks from around the world, some amazing entertainment or Stirling’s biggest Beer Garden there is something for everyone! Mon: Musical Bingo - Tue: Open Mic - Wed: Quiz - Thu: Karaoke. Party Bar open until 2am Fri & Sat!OPEN 7 DAYS. 9 Upper Craigs, Stirling (under the arch). Tel: 01786 451130 - www.kiltedkangaroo.com

21 THE COrN EXCHANGE Situated in the heart of Stirling’s city centre Every weekend The Corn Exchange has the most up-to-date dance and chart tunes with the resident DJ and an extensive cocktail menu. Kitchen open from 11am till 8:30pm with great British classics such as steak pie and fish and chips to enjoy in the newly refurbished outdoor area or lounge-style seating on the ground floor and the big dance floor upstairs. 11-13 Corn Exchange, Stirling, FK8 2HX. Tel: 01786 451904

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JIMMY CHUNGS. Authentic Chinese Cuisine presented in buffet style, a beautiful selection of starters and main courses, followed by a selection of fresh desserts - if you have any room left! OPEN 7 days a week, lunch 11.45 – 4.30pm only £6.99, (£7.99 Fri-Sun and bank holidays). Dinner 5pm – 10.30pm only £9.99 (£11.99 Fri-Sat). The chefs only use the freshest ingredients! 14 Friars Street, Stirling. FK8 1HA Tel: 01786 469911

23 STIrLING FOOD AND DrINK iPHONE APP. Great meals out at your fingertips! This user friendly App includes information on food and drink outlets throughout the Stirling area. You can search by location, price and food type, and view amazing special offers and deals.

Download your FREE copy from iTunes today!

HOLIDAY INN EXPrESS STIrLING located next to the Forthside’s Sports Village, close to The Peak leisure centre, Stirling Albion football club, cinema, shops, restaurants & Stirling’s many visitor attractions. Complimentary continental breakfast with hot items, free parking & free WiFi throughout the hotel makes this friendly hotel a great value option. Reservations on 0871 9021628 or visit www.expressstirling.co.uk. Springkerse Business Park, Stirling. FK7 7XH

24 STIrLING OLD BrIDGE was constructed sometime around 1500. The bridge was the lowest crossing point over the River Forth, all armies going north or south had to cross here. It was also the point where custom duties were levied on goods for market as they entered the burgh. The customs man sat in a little roofed booth situated halfway across the bridge; today this is marked by a recess.

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Eating out in Stirling Eating Out • Shops • in Stirling

2For Further information contact 01796 473335

or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Stirling.com

THE STIrLING WHISKY SHOP. Stirling’s largest stockest of Scotch Whisky, with 100 or more tasting bottles and knowledgeable staff who will find the perfect dram for you. Stirling Whisky Shop is a must on your visit.OPEN Daily Monday-Saturday 10.00am-6.00pm Sunday 11.00am-4.00pm29 Spittal St Stirling, FK8 1DUTel: 01786 449152

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Mr SIMMS OLDE SWEET SHOPPE. There’snothing to beat a good old traditional sweet shop.Choose from 400 jars of “weigh out” sweets, along with 80 varieties of pick ‘n’ mix. Indulge in 50 different flavours of exclusively made chocolate bars, 40 flavours of fudges and 50 varieties of liquorice. A range of imported sweets and drinks from the USA adds to the selection. 59 Port St, Stirling, FK8 2EW. Tel: 01786 358812 www.MrSimmsStirling.co.uk

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EUrOPA MUSIC‘Worth a visit to Stirling itself’ The List. Floor to ceiling music of all types; Scottish Folk, Rock, Pop, Punk, Jazz, Classical, Blues, Country etc. New and used CD’s, vinyl and DVD’s to buy or exchange. The largest browsable vinyl record collection in Scotland. Also T-shirts, books and memorabilia. OPEN 7 days. 10 Friars St, Stirling. Europa Mobile Disco for all functions. Tel/Fax: 01786 448623 www.facebook.com/europamusic

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‘STIrLING BAGPIPES’ a family run business based in Stirling’s old town. A well-known Scottish bagpipe maker specialising in manufacturing and refurbishing Great Highland Bagpipes, Scottish Smallpipes and Border Pipes including a large collection of Antique bagpipes. A wide range of piping/drumming accessories, bagpipe tune books, tutor books and CD’s. One-stop shop for pipe bands and pipers. 8 Broad Street FK8 1EF Tel: 01786 448886 www.stirlingbagpipes.com

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THE HISTOrIC TrAIL Just follow the footprints on the map, which take you around the Old Town to all the places, buildings and sites of historic interest. What makes this trail different is that there are a series of information plaques at points of interest along the route which tell the fascinating stories, history and events from the past. We would suggest you allow an hour to one and a half hours to walk this route. (Map Ref: A,B & C, 1 to 3)

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Eating Out • Shops • in Stirling

Dunblane

A short walk through Dunblane’s past

Dunblane Museum - well worth a visit. It is housed in the 1624 Deans House. Open April to October Monday to Saturday 10.30am - 4.30pm. TeL: 01786 825691

The Cross marks where the weekly markets & annual fairs were once held.

Dunblane Cathedral C13th. Open 1 April to 30 September Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 12.30pm; and 1.30pm to 5.00pm (last admission). Sunday 2.00pm to 5.00pm (last admission). Winter Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 4.00pm (last admis-sion). Sunday 2.00pm to 4.00pm (last admission). Dunblane Cathedral is a working church it may be closed for services. Telephone 01786 823388

The Medieval Bishop’s Palace - last inhabited in 1579.

The Town’s Bleaching Green.

The Town’s Meal Mill was located at the end of Mill Row.

The Bridge built in 1410 and widened later, see the different stonework.

Allanside House the large white building nearest the bridge, was an C18th worship place for the ‘Auld Lichts’, a breakaway religious sect.

The Leighton Library is the oldest private library in Scotland, dating from 1687. It was built for the 1,500 books of Robert Leighton, Bishop of Dunblane (1661-1670). The number of books has now grown to 4,500, covering a wide range of topics printed from 1504-1840. Open May to end of September: Monday, to Saturday 11am - 1pm and other times by arrangement with Tho. & J W Barty tel: 01786 822296.

THE CHUrCH OF THE HOLY rUDE is one of the finest medieval buildings in Scotland, its construction dating back to the early 15th century. James VI was crowned here in 1567 with John Knox preaching the sermon. The stained glass windows are among the best in Scotland while the Dreaper and Rushworth organ is one of the finest in the UK. OPEN daily from 1 May till 1 October. Sunay services January to June at 11.30am, July to December at 10am.

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EAT - DRINK - RELAXMAKE SHOPPING ENJOYABLE

At the Stirling Arcade, we’ve got everything you need for an enjoyable shopping experience - a great mix of independent retailers and businesses offering quality products and friendly personal service.With its beautifully restored Victorian architecture and period features a visit to the arcade is an experience all of its own.You can relax with a glass of wine whilst enjoying a freshly prepared meal or snack at one of the quality eateries. The shops offer the latest fashions, must have accessories, for all ages and brides to be, traditional and niche gifts with a range of services available which include beauty treatments, leisure and fi tness or visit Stirling’s fi rst oriental supermarket. At Stirling Arcade traditional values combine with contemporary style to provide the city’s most unique shopping experience.

WELCOME TO SHOPPING AS IT SHOULD BE... Open 7 days Mon - Sat 9am till late / Sun 10am till late

Individual shop opening times may vary Enter from King Street and Murray Place. Tel: 01786 450719 - www.stirlingarcade.com

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ALLANWATEr BrEWHOUSE. “Voted Best Stirling Tourism Business 2013”. Watch the brewer producing their cask ales and bottled beers; traditionally crafted real ales using 100% natural ingredients. Brewery tour and tastings of their award winners. Presentation beer packs named after famous battles and Scottish landmarks. Regular live music events. OPEN 7 days from 12noon ‘till late. Free car park. Behind the Queen’s Hotel in the main street. Tel: 01786 834555 www.bridgeofallan.co.uk

33 WELCOME TO VECCHIA BOLOGNA: A beautiful restaurant with a heavy Italian influence, located in a tranquil part of upper Bridge of Allan. Excellent parking facilities, an outside play area for children and an al fresco eating area.

With views second to none and a restaurant decorated in keeping with the characters of a 150 year old building, this is the venue which can cater for a good value lunch for two, to a special celebration for 80. The varied menu includes classic Italian and continental dishes created from the most traditional of family recipes. Flexible with menu options and also opening times for larger group bookings. Mine Road, Bridge of Allan FK9 4DT. Tel: 01786 833617. www.vechhiabologna.co.uk Email: claudio@vecchiabologna.co.uk

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DArN rOAD WALK. 4.5km (2.5 miles). Past the Allan Water Cafe onto Blairforkie Drive. Walk until you see the sign ‘Allan Walk’, then along this path, cross the wooden bridge at the bottom of the fields which takes you across the mouth of an old mine shaft. Follow the path down to the stream and cross the small bridge made of re-cycled plastic and stop and take in the view. Further along this path you will find

‘Stevensons Cave’ from where the inspiration for Treasure Island is said to have come. Cross over the pipe bridge and turn left downstream then follow the way marker uphill and over the railwaybridge then turn left. Walk past Milesy Bank schools and when you reach the main road turn left and follow the road back into town.

ALLAN WATEr CAFE. Family run café for more than 100 years. It is famous for the Fish and Chips and the delicious home made Ice Cream, made daily on the premises. Gluten free fish and chips on Mondays. It is open for breakfast, lunch through to dinner. Take- away is also available. OPEN 7 days, all year 8am (9am Sun) to 9pm. 15 Henderson St. Bridge of Allan. FK9 4HN Tel: 01786 833060

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HIDEAWAY CAFE A new popular bistro cafe tucked out of sight behind the shops. Serving breakfasts with fluffy pancakes, bacon and maple syrup! Light lunches, great coffee and baking - a special favourite is the homemade fruit scone and millionaire short bread. OPEN daily 9.00am to 5.00pm. Fountain Road, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4EU.

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Explore Bridge of Allan

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Bridge of Allan Historic Trail Around 1854 Robert Louis Stevenson was a frequent visitor to

the town. (See Darn Road Walk below.)

In the 1830’s, Bridge of Allan consisted of an old-fashioned Mill and Kiln (at point A), a wayside inn, a smithy and a few hovel- looking huts. The success of the spa changed all this by 1868.

At the Victorian Spa’s peak in the mid 1800’s, some 500 people per day would drink from the water that many believed cured a multitude of ailments :

The main road through Bridge of Allan used to be a swamp! The original road can be reached by taking the footpath up the steps from the bridge behind Allan Water Café. You will find the Tollbar Stone along here, which once controlled access to the bridge

The Provost’s (Mayor’s) Lamp is now situated at the Cross. It would have originally been placed outside the home of the

Provost.

The Paterson Clock is a memorial to one of the towns much loved characters, Alexander Paterson who was the local doctor and a distinguished botanist and horticulturalist.

Charles Rennie MacIntosh designed the splendid chancel suite of the furniture in the Bridge of Allan Parish Church in 1904. The church is open from June-Sept, 10am – 4pm.

The Fountain of Ninevah was erected by Mayor and town planner John Henderson in 1850 in honour of Sir Austin Lanyard who had made important discoveries in Ninevah in Mesopotamia.

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For Further information contact 01796 473335 or VISIT Explore Scotland at www.ExploreScotland.net www.Explore-Stirling.com

THE WESTErTON ArMS a traditional cosy pub and restaurant with woodburning stoves and beer garden serving cask ales. Homemade hearty meals, snacks and Scotch steaks from local suppliers. 2 Course Set Menu served weekday lunchtimes and early evenings. Car parking to rear and free wifi. Restaurant OPEN Mon-Fri 12-2.30 and 5-9pm, Sat 12-9.30pm & Sunday 12-9pm. 34 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4HR. Tel 01786 833999.

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FALKIrK TOWN CENTrE A trip to Central Scotland is not complete without a visit to Falkirk town centre. It has rightly gained a reputation for being one of the finest shopping destinations in Scotland. Businesses were recently awarded the accolade of providing the top customer service in the country. The town centre boasts two large and attractive shopping centres, and a fully pedestrianised High Street, with all the leading national stores. Just off the High Street are the finest selection of local independent businesses including designer boutiques, gift shops, galleries…the list is almost endless. These speciality stores delight the millions of shoppers visiting Falkirk every year with their unique ranges of products.

Falkirk also has a fantastic selection of best bar none pubs, restaurants and nightclubs in the heart of the town centre. Visit www.falkirkdelivers.com

CASTLE CAMPBELL. The home of the Campbell family who acquired it around 1466 and were there until 1654. It is situated in a spectacular location above Dollar Glen. The castle was added to in around 1600 by the 7th Earl. John Knox and Mary Queen of Scots both visited the castle. OPEN 1st April - 30th Sept 9.30 - 5.30pm. 1st Oct - 31st March Sat - Wed 9.30 - 4.30pm. Closed Thurs & Fri Tel: 01259 216913

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MENSTrIE CASTLE. Home to Clan MacAlister (anglicised to Alexander). Sir William Alexander established a Scottish colony in Nova Scotia, Canada, financing the project by selling baronetcies. The house was restored in 1964 & converted into flats leaving two ground floor rooms for a display area. OPEN Easter Sunday and 1 May to 30 Sept, Wed & Sun 2 to 5pm. For info Tel: 01259 211701. NTS. Signed off A91 in the village of Menstrie.

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THE FAW KIrK (meaning “speckled church”). In the passing of time the town’s name changed to ‘Falkirk’ as we know it. The only two known graves of the Scottish Wars of Independence are here. Sir John de Graeme, William Wallace’s right hand man at the 1298 Battle of Falkirk. Also graves from the 1746 Jacobite Battle of Falkirk Muir when Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army defeated a government army.

40 SAUCHIE TOWEr. It is thought that Sir James Schaw built the tower around 1431 his family were very influential in medieval Scotland. The original tower had six stories and an outer wall on at least two sides. A turnpike stair gave access to all stories with an unusual pyramidal roof. The tower is only open for special guided tours during Scottish Archaeology Month and Doors Open Days in September. For infoTel: 01259 216913. On the A908 near Sauchie.

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Explore Bridge of Allan Explore Falkirk

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FALKIrK is a great town to visit, whether for shopping, eating out, exploring the heritage trail or visiting fantastic attractions such as the Falkirk Wheel and Callander House. There are many historical sites and relics to visit, including the impressive Antonine Wall, built by the Roman Army around AD142. Half of the wall, along with some ancient forts and fortlets, stretches 15 miles with in the Falkirk council boundary. The Antonine Wall has recently been awarded ‘World Heritage’ status. Bo’ness, just 7 miles east of Falkirk, was Scotland’s largest town in the 17th century. Today, in addition to many independent shops, cafes and restaurants, Bo’ness is home to many great family attractions including the Bo’ness & Kinneil railway, motor museum, Blackness castle & Kinneill House & estate. Kinneil House is open on selected days (see www.kinneil.org for details), but the museum is open all year round and features 2000 years of local history. Kinneil estate has several sites of interest including a Roman Fortlet, a medieval village, the Antonine Wall site and inventor, James Watt’s cottage – it was here he tested the prototypes of his revolutionary steam engine.

© ‘Falkirk Delivers’For more details on Falkirk TownCentre visit www.falkirkdelivers.com

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Falkirk Clackmannanshire Tower Trail

CLACKMANNAN TOWEr. The lands were granted by King David II (son of King Robert the Bruce) to Robert de Bruce in 1365. The last of that line died in 1772. The main surviving part of the castle is the tower house which dates from the late 14thC. Access to the outside only, with superb views over the Forth valley & the Orchil Hills. Turn off the A907 into Clackmannan village, approx 300m walk up High Street, opposite the Clackmannan’s Tolbooth. (For ALLOA TOWEr see Page 1)

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THE PINEAPPLE (NTS): Built in 1761, stands 14m (45ft) high with the realistic effect of leaves & fruit produced by the cantilever masonry. Four stone vases disguise the chimneys. Greenhouses extended east & west from the central portico, originally heated by furnaces. The garden was planted in a typically Scottish manner with fruit trees. Set in 16 acres of garden/woodlands with a pond and a car park. OPEN - grounds all year daily, 9.30 to sunset. Signposted off A905, 7mls from Falkirk, 7mls from Stirling. Tel: 0844 4932139

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