Your new city: Stirling

Stirling is one of the UK's most attractive places to live, capturing the historic and contemporary in a unique atmosphere. Great Location

• The city of Stirling is right in the centre of Scotland
• Just 27 miles from Glasgow and 37 miles from Edinburgh
• 400 miles north of London
• Close to the dramatic and romantic Scottish highlands

Where is Stirling?

The city of Stirling is in the heart of Scotland, one of four unique countries that make up the UK. Scotland is a compact nation of 5.1 million people and is a country with a strong cultural identity and a proud history.

Nestling where the Scottish highlands and lowlands meet, it's no surprise that Stirling's motto is 'the heart of Scotland'. On your door is the peace and tranquillity of unspoiled mountains, lochs and shores. From walking to canoeing, mountain biking to sailing, Scotland has everything for the outdoor enthusiast. And, as the heart of Scotland, both Edinburgh and Glasgow are only 45 minutes away by road or rail.

See more travel information and location maps.

How big is Stirling?

We think it's the perfect size. The population's around 50,000 – 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 community feel.

What can I do?

Stirling combines the charm of a historic destination with the buzz of a contemporary city. There’s truly something for everyone, much of it aimed directly at students. You’ll soon learn that Stirling is linked to two of Scotland’s legendary heroes: William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. Along with a dramatic medieval castle, these give it a rich sense of history.

The city lights up at night, and many pubs, clubs and bars gear themselves towards students, with themed nights, DJs and drinks promotions. Traditional pubs provide quieter alternatives, with open fires, real ale and folk music.

The city is a major tourist destination, something reflected in the wide choice of cuisine at the numerous restaurants, bistros and cafés.

What's the cost of living?

Consistently lower than neighbouring cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh. With plenty of accommodation on campus, you can minimise travel costs. And the self-catering halls mean you can cook to your own budget if you wish.

Edinburgh and Glasgow – Major European Cities close by

A major benefit of Stirling’s location is that it is within the main population hub which includes both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Both of these internationally-renowned cities have their own airports and both are less than one hour from Stirling.

Glasgow has been awarded the status of European City of Culture and provides superb facilities including top-class shopping, great bars and restaurants, cutting-edge clubs and wonderful concert venues.

Edinburgh is known throughout the world for its Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations, and for the annual Festival, which features the very best of modern theatre, comedy and the arts. It is a beautiful city with a fine architectural style including the famous castle and Royal Mile.