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Field Trips for Stirling, Scotland

The following are possible destinations and activities; view term calendars for specifics. Destinations are subject to change.

Summer

Summer students have three daylong excursions included in their USAC program fee. These trips are an excellent way to enjoy some of Scotland's major attractions, under the guidance and expertise of the University of Stirling's International Summer School Team. Possible destinations are listed below.

Edinburgh castle in Edinburgh, Scotland.Edinburgh

As Scotland's capital since at least the 15th century, Edinburgh serves as the nation's political, historical, and cultural hub. Stroll along the famed Royal Mile, explore Edinburgh Castle, and enjoy the views from the city's many hills.

Busy city street with busses in Glasgow, Scotland.Glasgow

Venture to the port city of Glasgow, located on the River Clyde and renowned for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture, acclaimed museums, and thriving music scene.

View of boats in the marina in St Andrews, Scotland.St Andrews

Enjoy all this historic city has to offer - medieval streets, cathedral and castle ruins, beautiful sand beaches, the oldest golf course in the world (known as the home of golf), and the University of St Andrews, the oldest university in Scotland and the third oldest in the English-speaking world.

Each summer term also includes an excursion to a Scottish destination, meant to bring the module's unique curriculum to life. Locations vary by module and will be confirmed on-site. In addition to field trips and module excursions, summer students can participate in a range of social activities focused on Scottish culture and the greater Stirling area.

Semester and Yearlong

Semester students have two daylong excursions included in their USAC program fee; yearlong students have three daylong excursions included in their USAC program fee. Possible destinations are listed below.

Three students with a view of the mountains behind them in Highlands, Scotland.Highlands

Explore some of Scotland’s most breathtaking and picturesque landscapes on this guided trek into the southern Highlands. We’ll start our day at the historic town of Callender before visiting the Falls of Dochart, where river waters tumble over ancient rocks heading for the grand Loch Tay. The day will also include a stop at Fortingall Yew, an ancient yew tree that may be the oldest in the United Kingdom, and the historic Highland towns of Dunkeld and Birnam.

Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeen, Scotland.Northeast Coast

Experience the dramatic Angus coast in northeast Scotland! We'll visit the ruins of Dunnottar Castle, a medieval fortress perched impressively atop a cliff and surrounded on three sides by the North Sea. Our journey then takes us to Arbroath Abbey, one of Scotland's most historically significant churches. Founded by William the Lion in 1178, the Abbey is most famous for its association with the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, which asserted Scotland's independence from England. Time permitting, the day may also include a visit to a museum of ancient Pictish stone carvings.

View of historic ruins in St Andrews, Scotland.St Andrews

This day trip includes a range of sights along the Fife coast and a venture through its small picturesque villages - Culross Village and Falkland Village. Much of our day centers on the historic city of St Andrews, home of golf and the University of St Andrews, the oldest university in Scotland and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. You’ll have free time to enjoy the medieval streets, explore the cathedral, castle, and university, and stroll along the town's beautiful sand beach next to The Old Course, the home of golf.

Note: Yearlong students can choose to attend this field trip in either the fall or spring semester.

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