Location
The campus-based University of Stirling was founded by Royal Charter in 1967 on the historic Airthrey Estate, close to Bridge of Allan and two miles from the Royal Burgh of Stirling. The University's location and history make Stirling that bit different from other UK universities. Since 1967 we have grown considerably and we now also have Highland and Western Isles Campuses.
Welcome to Stirling
Stirling is one of the UK’s most attractive places to live, capturing the historic and contemporary in a unique atmosphere. Here are some of the key things you’ll probably want to know…
How big is Stirling?
We think it’s the perfect size. The population’s around 45,000 – 20 percent of whom are students.
This makes Stirling big enough to offer a full ‘city experience’: shopping, café culture, performing arts and nightlife. Yet it’s still compact enough to retain a warm, friendly community feel – and make it easy for you to get around and settle in.
How far is it from the campus?
Stirling city centre is just two miles from the campus — less than 10 minutes by bus.
What can I do?
Stirling combines the charm of an historic destination with the buzz of a contemporary city. There’s truly something for everyone.
You’ll soon learn that Stirling is linked to two of Scotland’s historic heroes: William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. Along with a dramatic medieval castle, these give it a magical aura.
Stirling’s history blends perfectly with a thriving modern soul. Traditional pubs provide quiet retreats, with open fires, real ale and folk music. Closer to campus, Bridge of Allan’s pubs are a vibrant mix of old and new, with beer gardens for long summer evenings.
Culturally, Stirling Castle is an established concert and arts venue. The Tolbooth building is another busy focus for performing arts and other events.
The city’s a major tourist destination, something reflected in the wide choice of cuisine at the numerous restaurants, bistros and cafés. There’s everything from pub grub to fine dining, with Italian, Indian, Chinese, Thai and Mexican all well represented. And you can pop into nearby Bridge of Allan for delis, bakeries and a classic fish ’n’ chip shop.
Where else is nearby?
Nestling where the Scottish highlands and lowlands meet, it’s no surprise that Stirling is known as ‘the heart of Scotland’. On your doorstep is the peace and tranquillity of unspoiled mountains, lochs and shores – perfect for outdoor activities such as walking, canoeing, mountain biking and sailing.
And, as the geographical heart of Scotland, Stirling naturally has superb links to the rest of the country and beyond.
In particular, both Edinburgh and Glasgow are only 45 minutes away by road or rail.