Local history
Stirling, known as the "Gateway to the Highlands," is a city steeped in Scottish history. Its strategic location made it a key site for numerous battles, including the pivotal Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297, where William Wallace led Scots to victory over the English. Stirling Castle, perched on a volcanic crag, has witnessed centuries of royal events, including the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543. Nearby, the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 saw Robert the Bruce defeat English forces, securing Scotland's independence. Today, Stirling remains a symbol of Scotland’s rich medieval and royal heritage.
Hiking and running
The outdoors around Stirling offers a diverse range of natural beauty and activities for all kinds of adventurers. Nestled between the Highlands and Lowlands, the Ochil Hills provide scenic walking and hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Trossachs National Park, a short drive away, is perfect for those seeking peaks and lochs. Whether you're looking to climb Ben Lomond, enjoy a peaceful walk along the River Forth, or explore woodlands and nature reserves, Stirling’s outdoors offers something for everyone.
Fine dining
Stirlingshire boast some spectacular luxury. The world famous 5* hotel and Championship golf course, Gleneagles is a short drive from Powis House, as well as Andy Murray's hotel, Cromlix. Both offer exceptional dinning experiences.
Cycling
If you're into Road, Touring, Gravel, Cross Country or Downhill, Powis is a great base to explore Central Scotland. The roads to the west take you along the UCI Cycling World Championships 2024 Time Trial route into the Trossachs, whilst east takes you to the beautiful coastline with the North Sea and St Andrews. The Ochils right next to Powis offer miles of great downhill, gravel and cross country tracks, with some groomed tracks, while Cambusbarron offers plenty of great groomed, downhill tracks.
Fishing
Thirteen rivers run into the Forth estuary, including the Forth and Teith, both incredible Salmon rivers. The world famous River Tay is the next valley over, offering arguably some of the most spectacular salmon fishing in Europe. There is an abundance of beautiful, wild rivers and lochs to explore all within easy driving distance of Powis House.
Golf
Powis House is located at the centre of the some of the best golf courses in the world. Gleneagles is 20 minutes drive, St Andrews (the 'home of golf') is 50 mins by car, whilst Ladybank, Kingsbairn and Dumbarnie are all within an hour. Locally there are some exceptional, less well known courses, such as Dollar, waiting to be explored.
The Fringe
If you've not been the The Fringe, you're missing out. The Fringe is a three-week, world famous festival of performing arts that takes place in Edinburgh every August. Its story dates back to 1947, when eight theatre groups turned up uninvited to perform at the Edinburgh International Festival. If you'd like to enjoy what the festival has to offer, but head back to a tranquil and spacious home at the end of the day, then Powis is perfect, with regular, direct trains from Stirling to Edinburgh in under 50 mins.
