Royal stronghold, palace of pleasures, regimental garrison – Stirling Castle has played many roles. Features include:
The largest banqueting hall in Scotland where kings, queens and nobles gathered to enjoy huge feasts and great celebrations. Built in 1503 by James IV as part of a huge refurbishment of the castle designed to impress his new bride – Margaret Tudor, daughter of England’s Henry VII.
The Chapel Royal was the last building erected in the castle by royalty. Within ten years of its completion in 1594 – the date is inscribed over the entrance portal – James VI, Mary Queen of Scots’ son, travelled to London to become James I of England also.
The Great Kitchens situated beneath the Grand Battery. Historic Scotland has returned the surviving areas to how they might have been in the days of King James IV and his queen, Margaret Tudor.
Stirling Tapestries – a project to recreate one of the world’s finest surviving set of medieval tapestries. Once complete, The Hunt of the Unicorn series will adorn the walls of the Queen’s Inner Hall within the royal palace. A total of seven tapestries are being woven with one team of weavers at work in the specially-created studio at the castle and the other team at the West Dean Tapestry Studio in Sussex. Visitors to the castle can view these world class weavers at work and experience a fascinating process.
Argyll’s Lodging is Scotland’s most splendid and complete example of a 17th -century townhouse. Situated on the upper approaches to Stirling Castle, its fine architecture marks it out as a property intended for a great nobleman serving the royal court. Highlights include; the Renaissance façade and main entrance which prepare the visitor for the 17th -century splendours within. These include the High Dining Room with its impressive and precious painted decoration, the Drawing Room with its grand fireplace, recreated tapestries and elaborate chair of state and My Lady’s Closet, where Lady Anna, Argyll’s second wife, would have spent much time.
The links between Stirling Castle and the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders reach back through 200 years of distinguished service.
The castle is proud to host their regimental museum where visitors can see exhibits and memorabilia from conflicts all round the world. Among them is Drummer Kennedy’s drum which saved his life during the Boer War, when it deflected a bullet.
Winner of Sandford Award 2006.
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