Located in central Scotland, Stirling is one of the country’s most historic cities and should feature on any Scottish travel itinerary. Known as the ancient ‘Gateway to the Highlands’, history has bequeathed Stirling with a rich array of sights and attractions, including Stirling Castle, a beautifully preserved hilltop fortress; and the nearby Wallace Monument, which offers great views of the city and its surrounds, and provides insight into the life of William Wallace, one of the key figures in the Scottish War of Independence. History fans will want to check out the related battlefields of Stirling Old Bridge, and the Stirling Old Town Jail, which offers wonderful guided tours of the Victorian-era prison. Nature lovers and active individuals alike will appreciate that they can explore several hillwalking trails leading to the summit of Dumyat.