Sterling Castle vs and extra night in York?

Cj, Don't miss Stirling Castle. Yes, there are a few steeper paths in Sterling which can be accomodated by a slower pace and a short respite from time to time. Public transport puts you close to the castle. The castle website notes: 'Courtesy Vehicle: Stirling Castle has a courtesy vehicle for visitors who have difficulty with steep inclines and steps.'
We loved the area around the old town, too. The countryside there begins to feel more rugged - you're leaving the lowlands! I see that it has recently been voted a 'UK's Best Heritage Attraction'. York was charming and the old town is seen in a day plus. We traced the old wall there, explored the winding streets, the cathedral, and left early the next day.

Thank you! I am sold. Sterling here we come. . . .

I'll have to 2nd that. Stirling Castle is fantastic! I checked their website - I thought I'd remembered them having a courtesy shuttle from the car park up the steep incline to the castle entrance - they do. Enjoy your visit!

Stirling is indeed a delightful place . While you are there see the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum and learn about " The Thin Red Line " . You will appreciate the history of the regiment as relates to Great Britain . Also , in the shops , they are at work reproducing a series of " Lady and Unicorn " tapestries ( may be finished and on display ) . This was one of our favorite sites on our trip to the UK . Lastly , before you go , try to see the 1960 film " Tunes of Glory " with Alec Guiness and John Mills about two Scottish Colonels in the days following the second war and the struggle between them for the hearts and minds of the men . A touching tale filmed in part at Stirling Castle .

I also vote Yes for Stirling Castle. It's gorgeous and you will love it. Lots of places to rest for you and your mum and lots to see. Check out the website stirlingcastle.gov.uk for more information.

CJ note it is StIrling not with an E. you aren't the only one to make this mistake,and I've meant to correct others before. Your post just drew the short straw for me. ; ). Stirling is one of the great castles. It's Renaissance Palace just reopened a year ago and is wonderful. The chapel and the great hall and the kitchens are all worth seeing too. Website. The location is amazing. You will understand its historical and military importance as you stand on the walls and look at the hills and valleys around you. Pam

@ Pamela , Since you are right here in NYC , the original set of seven tapestries are in The Cloisters up in Ft. Tryon Park . Have you seen them ?

Thank you all for your help and thanks for the spelling correction!

I thought the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries were in the Cluny Museum in Paris. What is at The Cloisters? Or, what did I see in Paris?

Denny , Sorry for the slight confusion . You did see " The Lady and the Unicorn " at the Cluny. The Metropolitan collection is a suite of seven tapestries , correctly titled " The Hunt of the Unicorn " . It is this suite on which the Stirling Castle reproductions are based . My error . But now you have to go to Stirling or come to NYC to see the others , also magnificent !!

Thank you, Steven, for the information. But have no regrets as I come pre-confused and self muddled. See, I have been to the Cloisters. Twice. It's all starting to make sense. Thanks!

Yes, indeed, got up to the cloisters a little over a year ago. Interesting place and great views of the Hudson. Pam

I also vote a big thumbs up on seeing Stirling Castle. Steven is right; The Cloisters is a must see. When I lived and worked in NYC, it was my "quiet place" I went to many times. Fabulous tapestries, beautiful garden, Gregorian chants echoing softly through the place.