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Stirling Castle question

Posted by moresweetteaplease on 04/05/25 01:35 PM

I'm going to Scotland at end of May. I've chosen a company for a one day private tour that takes me to Balmoral Castle and Stirling Castle. The company advised to NOT get Stirling Castle tickets ahead of time as to not limit time at Balmoral and promises there will be plenty of time for Stirling.

Everything I've read about Scotland says to prebook Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle as those can be the hardest to get into. I want to trust the company's judgment, but I also don't want to miss Stirling or waste a ton of time waiting to get in. What's your experience at Stirling Castle, is pre-booking needed or is it easier to walk in than my research has led me to believe?

Thank you in advance for your helpful input.

Posted by dpoweron

04/05/25 02:12 PM

212 posts

I believe that we just walked up. No line that I recall. Of course, it was a beautiful summer day in Scotland. By that, I mean there was horizontal, freezing rain. Still a good experience.

Posted by Allan

Canada 1st, not 51st.

04/05/25 02:35 PM

4924 posts

When we went in late May 2023 a timed entry was necessary, however we got there about 45 minutes early and we're waved right in. There is a lot to see at Stirling Castle so hopefully the tour company's definition of "lots of time" matches yours. We spent about 5 hours there.

Posted by wasleys

Lincolnshire, UK

04/05/25 03:24 PM

2554 posts

If you check out the page to book tickets for Stirling Castle and try a dummy booking, it gives information about how many tickets are available. To put it into context, I looked at Easter which is prime holiday time and there were loads of availability, and end of May was similar. Check just before your holiday to set your mind at rest, but I don't think you need to worry and can buy a ticket when you arrive. I think this is a hang over from Coid when there were restrictions on the number of people allowed in at any one time and everywhere was pushing visitors to prebook.

And Allan is right, allow plenty of time for a visit - at least 2-3 hours as there is a lot to see.

Posted by cassienevins

04/06/25 02:02 AM

17 posts

We went to Stirling on a Sunday in late May 2024 and just walked up and got in immediately. Only waited about 15 minutes for the free guided tour to begin.

Posted by jaimeelsabio

Mid-Atlantic area

04/06/25 02:24 PM

7576 posts

We had the Historic Scotland pass and walked right up and in, but there was no line when we visited. It was late September when we went, so I’m sure in May it would be a different experience.

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