Stirling named best place to visit in UK by prestigious travel guide

Time Out UK’s news editor Ed Cunningham wrote in the magazine:  “Stirling is far from an unsung destination; the Scottish city’s greatness is legendary, particularly its immense historical sights – including its castle and National Wallace Monument, both beacons of Scottishness – and access to extraordinary natural landscapes like Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. 

“But in 2026 there’ll be one huge new reason to visit Stirling: the launch of an affordable direct train service from London that will make the city cheaper, easier and more accessible to get to than ever.’ 

 Lumo is launching a direct route from London to Stirling by the middle of the year.

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The trains, says the writer, will run to and from London Euston four times a day Monday to Saturday and three times a day on Sundays. If you book early enough in advance, you’ll be able to find a one-way ticket for less than £30. 

He added: “The new route is landing at a perfect time. This year, Stirling will also host the finale of its 900th anniversary celebrations. Festivities have been going on for the last two years and they’ll wrap up in May with a huge night of music, dance, comedy and more at Stirling Castle. 

“On top of that, Stirling Distillery will release its first batch of Stirling whisky in late 2026 and independent venues across the city will take part in Stirling Cocktail Week, offering stellar food and drinks deals, in the autumn.

“We suggest taking advantage of the new train route in August, when you can combine your city break with the Stirling Highland Games and International Gathering. It’s a showcase of elite Highland athletic events like the caber toss, hammer throw and shot putt, accompanied by a creative arts programme with live historic battle demos, live music and talks on Scottish heritage.

Stirling Council leader Susan McGill has given a big thumbs up to the news.

She said: “We are proud to have been named as the best place to visit in the UK by TimeOut.

“This is more recognition for the Stirling area’s world-class tourism offering, having been ranked as Scotland’s top visitor destination by Lonely Planet last year.

“We are home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, coupled with a remarkable history and heritage.

“We have incredible attractions, a vibrant city centre with excellent transport links and beautiful and diverse communities to explore and enjoy.

“We are looking forward to welcoming visitors from across the world this year to enjoy everything Stirling has got to offer, with lots of exciting events planned for 2026 including the inaugural Culture Night Stirling on May 1.”