Whisky & Gin

No visit to Scotland is complete without experiencing its world-renowned whisky heritage. Stirling is perfectly placed for exploring some fantastic distilleries

Deanston Distillery

📍 Deanston, near Doune – approx. 20 mins by car
Located on the banks of the River Teith, Deanston Distillery is housed in a converted 18th-century cotton mill. Known for its handcrafted Highland single malt whisky, Deanston offers immersive distillery tours and tastings in a beautiful setting.

Stirling Distillery
📍
Although best known for its award-winning gin, Stirling Distillery has recently introduced whisky production too. Their boutique distillery at the foot of Stirling Castle offers small-group tours and tastings in a truly

Tullibardine Distillery
 📍Blackford – approx. 30 mins by car.
Tullibardine offers a modern take on traditional whisky-making, with a range of cask-finished whiskies and informative tours. Its convenient location just off the A9 makes it an easy and rewarding stop.
🔗 Visit Website

Food Tasting Experiences Nearby

If you love exploring local flavours and artisan food, you’ll find plenty to savour around Stirling. From farm-to-fork experiences to scenic foodie day trips, the surrounding areas offer a taste of Scotland at its most authentic and delicious.

Killin and the Falls of Dochart Smokehouse
📍Killin – approx. 1 hour’s drive from Stirling.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Falls of Dochart, this smokehouse is well worth the drive. It specialises in traditionally smoked Scottish salmon, trout, cheese, and more. Visit the deli shop to pick up handcrafted Scottish produce or enjoy a light bite in the on-site café. The journey itself takes you through some of the most picturesque scenery in the Trossachs.
🔗 Falls of Dochart Smokehouse

Blair Drummond Smiddy Farm Shop & Café
📍Blair Drummond – approx. 15 mins by car. A fantastic stop for foodies, the Smiddy offers local meats, cheeses, preserves, and baked goods – all sourced from Scottish farms and producers. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, gourmet burgers, and daily specials in the café, then browse the farm shop for take-home treats.
🔗 The Smiddy at Blair Drummond

Breakfast & Brunch Favourites
 

Stevens Bakery
📍Right across the road
his award-winning bakery is a local favourite for fresh rolls, pastries, cakes, and hot drinks on the go.

Unorthodox Roasters
📍2 Friars Street, Stirling
A must-visit for coffee lovers. This artisan café in the heart of Stirling roasts its own beans and serves up fresh pastries, creative brunch dishes, and excellent vegan options – all in a cool, laid-back setting.

Corrieris
📍7 Alloa Road – a few mins walk 
Italian cafe & pizzeria – a Stirling institution that has been serving great Italian food for over 50 years. Pasta, pizza, gelato and coffee! 

Lunch & Dinner Recommendations
 

Birds and Bees
📍Easter Cornton Road – 10 mins walk
Set in a converted farm steading, this popular gastropub serves up generous portions of comfort food, seasonal specials, and local ales in a rustic-chic setting.

The Portcullis
📍Castle Wynd
A historic pub nestled below Stirling Castle, with hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere.

Brea
📍5 Baker Street, Stirling
Award-winning Scottish cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.

Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy
📍29 Baker Street, Stirling
One of Stirling’s oldest pubs with live music, a friendly crowd, and traditional pub fare.

La Cucina (Bridge of Allan)
📍64 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan
Authentic Italian dishes in a relaxed, family-run setting.

Pubs, Bars & Nightlife
 

The William Wallace
Just a 5-minute walk from The Old Tram House, this welcoming local pub is full of character and a favourite with visitors and residents alike. Expect a warm atmosphere, great-value drinks, and the occasional live music night.

The Settle Inn
Stirling’s oldest pub dating back to 1733, full of character and history.

City Walls
A lively bar in the city centre with regular live music, quiz nights, and a large outdoor terrace.

No.2 Baker Street
A traditional pub located just down the hill from Stirling Castle

Over the Bridge (Bridge of Allan)
A community pub in Bridge of Allan with a virtual golf centre, darts and pool, a snug area and a function room. 

Allanwater Brewhouse (Bridge of Allan)
An award-winning microbrewery and pub, known for its creative craft beers, live folk music sessions, and brewery tours. A must for beer lovers.