Stirling Castle and Bannockburn Heritage Center are two great stops while in Edinburgh. Viking’s British Isles Explorer itinerary features a seven hour excursion to these two very historic spots.
Braveheart Country: Stirling Castle & Bannockburn Heritage Center was a very worthwhile excursion. Our guide was very informative and while there is a bit of a bus ride to and from the ship, there were some interesting features along the way.
Stirling Castle was home to the Stuart kings and birthplace of James II. It has controlled one of the main routes between the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands for centuries. It sets upon beautiful volcanic rock about the Forth River. We learned about the bloody past and its place in Scottish history.
There is a nice cafe there where you can have sandwiches, quiche, and pastries. It made for a nice break. We had three hours to explore the castle and have a lunch on our own.
Following our time at the castle, we traveled about 15 minutes to Bannockburn Heritage Center near where the 1314 battle in which the Scots under King of Scots Robert the Bruce defeated the English army of King Edward II during the First War of Scottish Independence. The docent shared information about the battle and strategies in their interactive museum.
I spoke with him after the presentation and mentioned that I was the 7th great granddaughter of the 4th Earl of Argyle - Archibald. He told me that Archibald’s grandfather, I believe it was, helped Robert the Bruce during this battle. I have to continue my research on Ancestry.com. It’s fascinating to hear these stories and learning of your connection through family with them.
Highly recommend this tour!
Happy and safe travels to all,
~ Cindy
#MyVikingStory
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