Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum
Step into the story of Scotland’s famed Highland regiment inside Stirling Castle’s historic King’s Old Building.
Housed within Stirling Castle’s historic King’s Old Building, the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum brings to life over 200 years of Scottish military history. Through uniforms, medals, weapons, and personal stories, it traces the journey of this famed Highland regiment from its 18th-century origins to the present day. The museum reopened in 2021 after a major modernisation, blending historic architecture with engaging, contemporary displays. Access is included with a Stirling Castle ticket, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Scotland’s martial and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum
- The Castle, Stirling, FK8 1EH, GB
- +441786448041
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid the busiest castle crowds and have more time to read the detailed displays and personal stories.
- Allow at least 1–2 hours to fully appreciate the museum’s rich collection and thematic exhibits, especially if you’re interested in military or Scottish history.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Stirling Castle’s ramparts and Great Hall to understand the regiment’s historic home and its strategic importance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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On foot from Stirling town centre
From Stirling’s Old Town, follow the main route uphill toward the castle esplanade. The walk takes about 10–15 minutes on paved paths and steps; it is steep in places and not suitable for those with limited mobility. The museum is inside the castle complex, accessed via the main castle entrance.
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By car
From central Stirling, follow signs for Stirling Castle. Limited pay-and-display parking is available on the castle esplanade; spaces are limited and fill quickly, especially in peak season. The museum is inside the castle, reached on foot from the main entrance after parking.
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By public transport
Regular bus services from Stirling bus station and railway station stop near the castle esplanade. The walk from the nearest stops to the castle entrance takes 5–10 minutes on paved paths, with some incline. The museum is inside the castle complex, accessed via the main entrance.
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum
Scotland’s Highland Legacy in Stone and Story
Tucked inside Stirling Castle’s ancient King’s Old Building, the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum tells the proud story of one of Scotland’s most distinguished Highland regiments. From the raising of the 91st Argyllshire Highlanders in 1794 and the 93rd Sutherland Highlanders in 1799, through their 1881 amalgamation into the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess Louise’s), the museum traces more than two centuries of service, sacrifice, and tradition. The displays unfold chronologically and thematically, weaving together uniforms, medals, weapons, colours, silver, paintings, and personal letters to create a vivid portrait of regimental life across global conflicts and peacetime.A Modern Museum in an Ancient Shell
Though the King’s Old Building dates back to the late 15th century and once served royal and military functions, the museum itself is a thoroughly modern experience. After a major three-year redevelopment completed in 2021, the space was transformed into a bright, accessible, and engaging environment that respects its status as a scheduled monument. Interactive panels, audio commentaries, and carefully curated thematic zones explore not only battles and campaigns but also the social history of the regiment: the role of women, military medicine, music and piping, and the regiment’s deep ties to communities in Argyll, Sutherland, and beyond. The result is a museum that feels both historically grounded and freshly relevant.Inside the King’s Old Building
The museum occupies parts of the King’s Old Building, a structure with roots in the reign of James IV and later adapted for military use. Visitors move through a sequence of rooms that once housed officers and soldiers, now repurposed to showcase the regiment’s nationally significant collection. Highlights include full Highland dress uniforms, campaign medals, regimental silver, and the distinctive pipe banners that once flew above the pipes and drums. Temporary and rotating displays often focus on specific campaigns, individuals, or aspects of Highland culture, ensuring that repeat visits can reveal new stories and artefacts.More Than a Military Museum
While the focus is on the regiment’s military history, the museum also offers a window into broader Scottish history and identity. Exhibits touch on the Jacobite era, the evolution of Highland dress and tartan, the changing role of the British Army, and the global diaspora of Highland soldiers. Personal narratives—letters from the front, diaries, and oral histories—add emotional depth, reminding visitors that behind every uniform and medal is a human story of courage, hardship, and camaraderie. The museum’s interpretive approach balances respect for tradition with a thoughtful, sometimes critical, look at empire, conflict, and remembrance.Planning Your Visit
The museum operates on the same schedule as Stirling Castle, with slightly longer hours in the summer months. Entry is included in the Stirling Castle admission ticket, so there is no separate charge to visit the museum itself. The space is compact but richly layered, typically taking between one and two hours to explore at a comfortable pace. The museum is well suited to visitors of all ages, with clear signage, accessible routes, and content that can be appreciated by both casual visitors and military history enthusiasts. Facilities such as a gift shop and café are available within the wider castle complex, and the museum is a popular stop for school groups and educational tours.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Star Pyramid
0.3 km
A striking Victorian pyramid honouring Scottish Presbyterian heritage within an ornamental 19th-century cemetery.
The Statues
0.4 km
Historic statues in Stirling celebrating Scotland’s heroes and cultural legends, set amidst a rich urban heritage landscape.
Rob Roy McGregor Statue
0.8 km
Discover the stirring legacy of Rob Roy MacGregor, Scotland’s legendary outlaw and folk hero, immortalized in bronze in the heart of Stirling.
The Crossed Peels
0.8 km
Historic Stirling pub offering real ales, hearty fare, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.
Tinkerbells Emporium
0.9 km
Discover the enchanting Tinkerbells Emporium in Stirling, a magical gift shop filled with unique treasures and delightful souvenirs for every traveler.
Stirling War Memorial
0.9 km
A dignified sandstone obelisk honoring Stirling’s fallen heroes from World War I and beyond, standing as a lasting symbol of sacrifice and remembrance.
Monterey Jack's Stirling
0.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of American cuisine at Monterey Jack's Stirling, where delicious burgers and creative cocktails await you in a vibrant atmosphere.
City Walls
0.9 km
Discover the historic City Walls Pub in Stirling, where ancient charm meets modern Scottish hospitality, offering local dishes and brews.
Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast
1.0 km
Discover comfort and Scottish hospitality at Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast, a charming retreat in the heart of Stirling with stunning views and easy access to local attractions.
Contempo
1.0 km
Explore Contempo, Stirling's charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs, jewelry, and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Scotland.
Tourist Information Point
1.1 km
Explore Stirling like a local with insights and resources from the Tourist Information Point, your guide to unforgettable adventures in Scotland.
Stirling City Heritage Trust
1.2 km
Explore the Stirling City Heritage Trust and uncover the stories of Scotland's past through its dedicated preservation efforts.
St Ninians Well
1.3 km
Discover Stirling’s historic St Ninians Well, a tranquil stone spring steeped in healing lore and centuries of local tradition.
Historic Scotland
2.0 km
Discover the artistry of stone-cutting at Historic Scotland, a captivating experience in Stirling that showcases Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
memorial
2.2 km
A solemn stone memorial honouring Stirling's fallen, set within a verdant park of woodland walks and quiet reflection.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Great Kitchens - Stirling Castle
0.1 km
Step into the bustling medieval heart of Stirling Castle where royal feasts were crafted in the vividly recreated Great Kitchens.
Grand Battery
0.1 km
Explore the historic Grand Battery at Stirling Castle, a commanding artillery platform built over medieval kitchens, pivotal in Scotland’s 18th-century defenses.
Queen Anne’s garden
0.1 km
A historic and tranquil garden beneath Stirling Castle, where royal heritage meets vibrant blooms and sweeping Scottish vistas.
Robert the Bruce Statue
0.2 km
A commanding 19th-century statue of Robert the Bruce at Stirling Castle, symbolizing Scottish independence and royal heritage.
Stirling Castle
0.2 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic Renaissance fortress with royal history, grand halls, lush gardens, and breathtaking Highland views.
Drummond Pleasure Ground
0.3 km
A serene Victorian garden in Stirling featuring the iconic Star Pyramid, blending faith, history, and landscape beauty.
Stirling Distillery
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest distillery crafting award-winning gin and whisky in Stirling’s historic heart beneath the castle.
Old Town Cemetery
0.3 km
Historic Stirling Old Town Cemetery, a serene necropolis rich with centuries of Scottish heritage and evocative monuments.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the Martyrs' Memorial in Stirling, a poignant historical landmark honoring those who sacrificed for their beliefs amidst stunning landscapes.
Argyll's Lodging
0.4 km
Explore the finest surviving 17th-century Scottish townhouse, rich with aristocratic history and Renaissance artistry in the heart of Stirling.
Mar's Wark
0.4 km
Explore the evocative Renaissance façade of Mar's Wark, a 16th-century aristocratic townhouse ruin near Stirling Castle.
The King's Knot
0.4 km
Historic royal garden earthworks beneath Stirling Castle, showcasing Scotland’s regal leisure and heritage with scenic castle views.
Church of the Holy Rude
0.4 km
Discover Stirling’s medieval Church of the Holy Rude, a royal coronation site with stunning Gothic architecture and centuries of Scottish history.
Cowane's Hospital
0.5 km
Explore Cowane's Hospital, a stunning 17th-century almshouse in Stirling, blending rich history, Scottish Renaissance architecture, and community legacy.
VisitScotland Stirling iCentre (Old Town Jail)
0.5 km
Discover Stirling’s history and culture through the iconic Old Town Jail, once home to the VisitScotland iCentre, your gateway to exploring Scotland’s heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Portcullis
0.3 km
Historic Scottish hotel beside Stirling Castle with authentic pub, hearty food, and genuine Highland hospitality.
Hermanns
0.4 km
Authentic Austrian cuisine meets Scottish tradition in historic Stirling's most charming restaurant.
MacMillans Kitchen
0.5 km
Relax in a cozy bistro surrounded by scenic gardens, savoring fresh, locally sourced dishes and homebaked treats in Stirling’s welcoming garden centre.
Green Gates Authentic Indian Restaurant.
0.6 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Stirling.
Mediterranèa
0.7 km
Stirling’s only tapas and meze restaurant, serving Greek and Spanish flavours in a warm, family-run setting.
Victoria Square
0.7 km
A 5-star Victorian guesthouse and fine-dining restaurant in the heart of Stirling, just steps from the castle and Old Town.
The Orangery at Victoria Square
0.7 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic conservatory setting, famed for its Grand Afternoon Tea and seasonal local produce.
Scholars Restaurant
0.7 km
Classic British dining in the heart of Stirling with welcoming indoor and outdoor settings at the historic Stirling Highland Hotel.
Mamma Mia Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Stirling at Mamma Mia Restaurant.
Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served in a bright, welcoming Stirling setting with diverse menu options and a relaxed atmosphere.
Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy
0.8 km
Discover Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy: A vibrant gastropub in Stirling offering delicious food, local ales, and live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Old Town Coffee House
0.8 km
Cozy family-run café in Stirling’s Old Town, serving fresh baked goods, specialty coffee, and hearty British-Polish fare in a welcoming setting.
Molly Malones
0.8 km
Experience the lively spirit of Ireland in the heart of Stirling at Molly Malones, a vibrant pub blending authentic hospitality with rich cultural charm.
Italia Nostra Ltd
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Stirling at Italia Nostra Ltd.
Sida Thai
0.8 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy Stirling setting with fresh, flavorful dishes and friendly service at Sida Thai.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Palace Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the charming Palace Gift Shop nestled within historic Stirling Castle.
Courtyard Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and exclusive souvenirs in the charming Courtyard Gift Shop nestled within historic Stirling Castle.
F&F Clothing
0.7 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for the whole family, conveniently located inside Tesco Stirling Superstore with extended hours and quality guarantees.
Europa Music
0.9 km
Stirling's independent vinyl and CD sanctuary for collectors and music enthusiasts.
Cancer Research UK
0.9 km
Treasure hunt for a cause—quality secondhand finds funding cancer research in Stirling's heart.
Abbey Antiques Ltd.
0.9 km
Carefully curated antiques and fine art hidden on historic Friars Street in Stirling.
House of Henderson
0.9 km
Discover bespoke Scottish Highlandwear crafted with tradition and care at Stirling’s House of Henderson, kiltmakers since 1923.
Made In Stirling
0.9 km
Discover Stirling’s vibrant creative heart with unique handmade art, crafts, and workshops at Made in Stirling’s flagship store.
Calluna ethical living
0.9 km
Discover Stirling’s charming hub for sustainable gifts, ethical homewares, and beautiful plants at Calluna Ethical Living.
Bluebell's Childrenswear
0.9 km
Discover stylish, quality children's clothing and gifts in Stirling’s charming Bluebell's Childrenswear boutique.
A'ila Home
0.9 km
Discover Stirling’s unique homewares treasure trove offering quirky, quality décor and gifts that add personality to every room.
Nickel & Dime
1.0 km
Discover Stirling’s eclectic emporium offering unique gifts, practical household goods, and charming finds at Nickel & Dime.
Trend
1.0 km
Discover Trend in Stirling, a unique clothing shop offering the latest fashion styles and timeless pieces for every occasion.
The Fragrance Shop
1.0 km
Discover your signature scent at Stirling’s premier independent fragrance retailer with expert advice and an extensive brand selection.
The Celebrations Card & Gift Shop
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt cards at The Celebrations Card & Gift Shop in Stirling, your perfect stop for special occasions.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Settle Inn
0.4 km
Historic Stirling pub with cozy charm, lively folk music, and a welcoming atmosphere for ale lovers and locals alike.
Cross Keys
0.6 km
A cozy historic pub and inn in Stirling offering hearty local fare, guest beers, and comfortable rooms with scenic views.
Curly Coo Bar
0.7 km
Discover Stirling’s cozy whisky sanctuary with over 130 malt whiskies, warm hospitality, and a quirky yet traditional atmosphere.
Lawsons
0.8 km
Discover Lawsons, Stirling’s cozy gin lounge with over 95 gins, craft cocktails, and warm Scottish hospitality in a lively, welcoming setting.
BrewDog Stirling
0.8 km
A lively craft beer bar and restaurant in Stirling offering 15 taps, classic bar food, and a vibrant atmosphere near the castle and station.
meraki
0.8 km
A vibrant and quirky cocktail bar in Stirling city centre, known for expertly crafted classics and innovative creations in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Vinney’s Bar
0.9 km
A friendly, budget-friendly bar in Raploch, Stirling, known for its welcoming vibe and lively local nights.
King Cons
0.9 km
Experience Stirling’s vibrant nightlife at King Cons, a lively bar offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city centre.
Port Customs Bar
1.1 km
A classic Stirling pub offering well-kept beers, fine whiskies, and a friendly, inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The William Wallace
2.2 km
A cosy, affordable Scottish pub near the Wallace Monument, offering hearty food, fresh beer, and a warm, friendly atmosphere in Stirling's Causewayhead.
The Borestone Bar
2.8 km
A friendly and affordable Stirling pub with a spacious lounge, welcoming locals, and a lively atmosphere near Bannockburn Road.
Anchor Bar
2.9 km
A friendly and affordable community pub in Stirling with pool, darts, live sports, and a spacious function room for vibrant local gatherings.
Westerton Arms
3.4 km
A cherished Bridge of Allan pub and restaurant blending hearty Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
The Bawbee
3.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Bridge of Allan, known for lively atmosphere, live music, generous portions, and expertly crafted drinks.
1314 Inn
3.8 km
A friendly Stirling pub offering hearty Scottish fare, generous portions, and a warm community atmosphere at great value.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Cultural
- Educational
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Cultural Heritage
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
