Local Attractions
The local area of the Forth Valley in the heart of Scotland which includes Clackmannanshire, Stirling and Falkirk offers a variety of outstanding attractions such as Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle, Japanese Garden, The Kelpies, The Falkirk Wheel and so much more.​
William Wallace Monument
Stirling’s famous landmark stands proudly above the fields where William Wallace led his troops to victory at The Battle of Stirling Bridge, it tells the story of the patriot and martyr who became Scotland’s National Hero.
​
www.yourstirling.com/see-do/the- wallace-monument/buy-tickets
2.6 Miles from Menstrie Castle Stay.
Stirling Old Bridge
One of the most medieval masonry arch bridges in Scotland built in 1400's or 1500's replacing a succession of timber bridges.
The best known of these was one on 11 September 1297, where the forces of Andrew Moray and William Wallace defeated the combined English forces at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, the First War of Scottish Independence.
​
3.5 miles from Menstrie Castle Stay.
Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, both historically & architecturally.
​
Enjoy a taste of the past, see the kitchen staff hard at work as they prepare meals for Royalty. Have fun in each of the five Palace vaults and learn about the people who worked for the King and Queen.
​
The Queen Anne Gardens is so picturesque to stroll through with beautiful views over Stirling and beyond.
​
Cafe and paid parking on site.
Entry to Stirling Castle is by pre-booked time slots only.
​
4.1 Miles from Menstrie Castle Stay
Stirling Old Town Jail
Stirling Old Town Jail dates back to 1847 and is a top-rated independent visitor attraction in the heart of Stirling, a short walk from Stirling Castle.
With live performances and a Scene of the Crime Exhibition, a trip to the Jail gives you a truly immersive and unique experience of life in a real Victorian prison.
Visit the actual cells, the old excercise yard on the roof or the observation tower, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond to the Ochil Hills.
​
You could even opt for the Escape Rooms at the Jail for an fun hour of solving puzzles and finding clues.
​
The Old Town Jail offers free parking onsite.
It is recommended to visit their website for opening hours or to book in advance:
​
5.7 Miles from Menstrie Castle Stay
Bannockburn Heritage Centre
The Battle of Bannockburn took place in June 1314 and was a decisive victory for the Scots during the Wars of Independence with England. The Scottish army led by King Robert the Bruce took on the much larger English army to win the freedom that shaped Scotland's future.
​
This is not a conventional museum though, as there were very few artefacts found at the battlefield site. Instead, it is an exhibition that is very impressive and brings the battle experience to life. You can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with medieval warriors as you are placed on the battlefield during an attack to experience the atmosphere of scotland's most famous battle. You can view the knight's armour and you see a map of the battlefield itself. Outside, the monumental statue of Sir Robert the Bruce should not be missed.
​
https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/banoockburn
5 miles from Menstrie Castle Stay
The Kelpies
The Kelpies are the largest unique sculptures in the world, designed by the artist Andy Scott A monumental feat in engineering, they stand 100 ft tall and weigh over 300 tonnes each.
The structures contain approximately 18,000 individual pieces each and unbelievably the giant jigsaw took just 90 days to put together.
The Kelpies pay homage to the working horses of Scotland which back in the late 18th and early 19th century, used to pull barges of coal and goods along Scotland's canals.
They were modelled on two Clydesdale horses named Duke and Baron.
​
Situated in Helix park, which has a visitor centre with cafe, gift shop and exhibition space, an adventure play park, splash fountains, a lagoon and cycle path.
​
The Kelpies are free of charge with parking on site.
​
​
16 miles from Menstrie Castle Stay
Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden is situated just 15 minutes from Menstrie Castle Stay, just north of Dollar.
Once referred to as "The most important Japanese Garden in the western world", The Japanese Garden at Cowden is the only one of its type in the world to have been designed by a Japanese woman, Taki Handa.
Created in 1908, it was commissioned by the Scottish adventurer, Ella Christie, who was inspired by her recent trip to Japan.
She named it "Sha Raku En" or "A place of pleasure and delight".
This is a unique and utterly authentic bridge between Scottish and Japanese culture. In it are many unique plants and trees, as well as structures with Japanese cultural significance, and there are several walks surrounding the garden including woodland walks, a treehouse and play area for the children. There is also a wonderful tearoom with free parking on site.
​
Please visit their website to check opening times and to book tickets in advance.
https://www.japanesegarden.co.uk
​
11 miles from Menstrie Castle Stay.
Blairdrummond Safari & Adventure Park
A great day out for all the family!
At the Safari Park, there are over 300 animals, which you can visit on foot. Raised viewing platforms mean exciting eye-to-eye views of the giraffes, lions and tigers, or say hello to the friendly farm animals in Pets Corner.
From the safety of your car, you can also take the safari drive-thru, where you'll see rhinos, antelopes, monkeys and the magnificent lion pride.
The Safari Park is also home to over twenty moving and stomping life-sized dinosaurs, several food outlets, a shop and funfair rides.
www.blairdrummond.com to book tickets
​
10 Miles from Menstrie Castle Stay.
The Falkirk Wheel
The Falkirk Wheel is the world's only rotating boat lift and is an exciting example of 21st century engineering, lifting boats 115ft and linking the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.
The Wheel is a great day out for all the family with plenty of activities including a mini canal & water play park, outdoor mini-golf course, cycle hire, water zorbing, boat trips and woodland walks through parts of the Roman built Antonine Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
​
16 Miles from Menstrie Castle Stay.