About the Stirling, Scotland Program
The Stirling program is a USAC partnership program. Learn more about on-site program elements and the city itself below.
About Stirling
- Distance from Edinburgh: 37 miles
- Distance from Glasgow: 26 miles
Stirling, an ancient fortress city that guarded a major crossing of the River Forth, is located in the center of Scotland, between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Once the capital of Scotland and an important market town, it has a long and colorful history and played a key role in the nation’s economic, religious, and political development. Many sixteenth- and seventeenth-century buildings have been preserved and still are used as homes, tourist sites, and restaurants. Historic attractions include the National Wallace Monument, Cambuskenneth Abbey, the Old Town Jail, and the former royal residence of Stirling Castle. One of the largest and most historically important castles in Scotland, Stirling Castle is impressively located atop a crag, surrounded by steep cliffs on three of its sides, and is fast becoming an established concert venue. In the city center, which is buzzing with student life, there is an extensive modern shopping area, along with theatres, restaurants, cafés, rail and bus terminals, and more.
Stirling is dramatically positioned at the point where lowland and highland Scotland meet. Its unique location offers easy access to the Highlands, which boast some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe and a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. It is also located within an hour of both Edinburgh and Glasgow by train and is well-connected to other major cities across Scotland and the United Kingdom.
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