Cowane's Hospital: A Glimpse into Stirling's Rich History
Discover the captivating history of Stirling at Cowane's Hospital, a local history museum showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
Cowane's Hospital, a captivating local history museum in Stirling, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the past through its well-preserved artifacts and exhibits. This historic site invites tourists to delve into the stories of the region's heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to Cowane's Hospital
- 49 St John St, Stirling, FK8 1ED, GB
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's schedule for any special exhibits or events that may be happening during your visit.
- Allow extra time to explore the surrounding area, as Stirling is filled with historical landmarks and scenic views.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience and more personal interactions with the staff.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, Cowane's Hospital is located at 49 St John St, Stirling FK8 1ED. From the M9 motorway, take the exit for Stirling and follow signs for the city center. Once you reach the city center, look for St John Street. There is limited street parking available nearby, so be sure to check for parking restrictions. Expect to pay between £1 to £2 per hour for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach Cowane's Hospital via public transport, you can take a bus to Stirling city center. The main bus station is located on Goosecroft Road. From there, it's a short walk to St John Street. Head east on Goosecroft Road, then turn right onto Murray Place and continue straight until you reach St John Street. Cowane's Hospital will be on your left. Bus fares vary, but typically cost around £2-£5 depending on your starting point.
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Walking
If you are already in the city center, Cowane's Hospital is easily accessible on foot. From the Old Town Jail, head down St John Street towards the east. The hospital should be within a 10-minute walk. Look for the large stone building with the historic architecture on your left as you approach.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi to Cowane's Hospital. Taxis are available throughout Stirling, and you can book one via a local taxi service or hail one on the street. The fare from the city center should be around £5-£7, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Cowane's Hospital
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Statues
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Historic statues in Stirling celebrating Scotland’s heroes and cultural legends, set amidst a rich urban heritage landscape.
The Star Pyramid
0.2 km
A striking Victorian pyramid honouring Scottish Presbyterian heritage within an ornamental 19th-century cemetery.
Rob Roy McGregor Statue
0.4 km
Discover the stirring legacy of Rob Roy MacGregor, Scotland’s legendary outlaw and folk hero, immortalized in bronze in the heart of Stirling.
Stirling War Memorial
0.4 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.
The Crossed Peels
0.4 km
Historic Stirling pub offering real ales, hearty fare, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.
Monterey Jack's Stirling
0.5 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.
Tinkerbells Emporium
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Tinkerbells Emporium in Stirling, a magical gift shop filled with unique treasures and delightful souvenirs for every traveler.
City Walls
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.6 km
Explore Contempo, Stirling's charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs, jewelry, and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Scotland.
Tourist Information Point
0.8 km
Explore Stirling like a local with insights and resources from the Tourist Information Point, your guide to unforgettable adventures in Scotland.
St Ninians Well
0.8 km
Discover Stirling’s historic St Ninians Well, a tranquil stone spring steeped in healing lore and centuries of local tradition.
Stirling City Heritage Trust
0.9 km
Explore the Stirling City Heritage Trust and uncover the stories of Scotland's past through its dedicated preservation efforts.
Historic Scotland
1.6 km
Discover the artistry of stone-cutting at Historic Scotland, a captivating experience in Stirling that showcases Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
memorial
2.4 km
A solemn stone memorial honouring Stirling's fallen, set within a verdant park of woodland walks and quiet reflection.
Unmissable attractions to see
Church of the Holy Rude
0.0 km
Discover Stirling’s medieval Church of the Holy Rude, a royal coronation site with stunning Gothic architecture and centuries of Scottish history.
Stirling Old Town Jail
0.1 km
Step back into Victorian Scotland with immersive live tours, historic cells, and panoramic views at Stirling Old Town Jail.
Mar's Wark
0.1 km
Explore the evocative Renaissance façade of Mar's Wark, a 16th-century aristocratic townhouse ruin near Stirling Castle.
VisitScotland Stirling iCentre (Old Town Jail)
0.1 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.
Stirling GhostWalk & Old Town Tour
0.1 km
Experience Stirling’s haunted Old Town with the charismatic Happy Hangman on a thrilling evening of ghost stories, history, and humor.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.1 km
Explore the Martyrs' Memorial in Stirling, a poignant historical landmark honoring those who sacrificed for their beliefs amidst stunning landscapes.
Stirling - Lower Castlehill
0.1 km
Historic gateway to Stirling Castle’s royal past, where medieval streets lead to grand halls and living history comes alive.
Argyll's Lodging
0.1 km
Explore the finest surviving 17th-century Scottish townhouse, rich with aristocratic history and Renaissance artistry in the heart of Stirling.
Old Town Cemetery
0.2 km
Historic Stirling Old Town Cemetery, a serene necropolis rich with centuries of Scottish heritage and evocative monuments.
The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum
0.2 km
Discover Stirling’s rich heritage and vibrant art scene at this Victorian museum set within beautiful gardens and dynamic exhibitions.
Broad Street Stores
0.2 km
A friendly local convenience store at the heart of Stirling’s historic Broad Street, offering excellent value and essential goods daily.
Drummond Pleasure Ground
0.2 km
A serene Victorian garden in Stirling featuring the iconic Star Pyramid, blending faith, history, and landscape beauty.
Darnley Park
0.3 km
A family-friendly playground in Stirling offering stunning views of the Ochil Hills and a peaceful urban green space for all ages.
Stirling Castle
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic Renaissance fortress with royal history, grand halls, lush gardens, and breathtaking Highland views.
The King's Knot
0.3 km
Historic royal garden earthworks beneath Stirling Castle, showcasing Scotland’s regal leisure and heritage with scenic castle views.
Essential places to dine
MacMillans Kitchen
0.1 km
Relax in a cozy bistro surrounded by scenic gardens, savoring fresh, locally sourced dishes and homebaked treats in Stirling’s welcoming garden centre.
Hermanns
0.1 km
Authentic Austrian cuisine meets Scottish tradition in historic Stirling's most charming restaurant.
The Portcullis
0.2 km
Historic Scottish hotel beside Stirling Castle with authentic pub, hearty food, and genuine Highland hospitality.
Scholars Restaurant
0.3 km
Classic British dining in the heart of Stirling with welcoming indoor and outdoor settings at the historic Stirling Highland Hotel.
Victoria Square
0.3 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
0.3 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic conservatory setting, famed for its Grand Afternoon Tea and seasonal local produce.
Mamma Mia Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Stirling at Mamma Mia Restaurant.
Old Town Coffee House
0.4 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.
Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy
0.4 km
Discover Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy: A vibrant gastropub in Stirling offering delicious food, local ales, and live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Italia Nostra Ltd
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Stirling at Italia Nostra Ltd.
Sida Thai
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy Stirling setting with fresh, flavorful dishes and friendly service at Sida Thai.
Brea - Scottish Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience award-winning modern Scottish cuisine crafted with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy Stirling bistro.
Green Gates Authentic Indian Restaurant.
0.4 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Stirling.
Mediterranèa
0.4 km
Stirling’s only tapas and meze restaurant, serving Greek and Spanish flavours in a warm, family-run setting.
Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served in a bright, welcoming Stirling setting with diverse menu options and a relaxed atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Courtyard Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and exclusive souvenirs in the charming Courtyard Gift Shop nestled within historic Stirling Castle.
Palace Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the charming Palace Gift Shop nestled within historic Stirling Castle.
Abbey Antiques Ltd.
0.5 km
Carefully curated antiques and fine art hidden on historic Friars Street in Stirling.
Europa Music
0.5 km
Stirling's independent vinyl and CD sanctuary for collectors and music enthusiasts.
House of Henderson
0.5 km
Discover bespoke Scottish Highlandwear crafted with tradition and care at Stirling’s House of Henderson, kiltmakers since 1923.
Made In Stirling
0.5 km
Discover Stirling’s vibrant creative heart with unique handmade art, crafts, and workshops at Made in Stirling’s flagship store.
Cancer Research UK
0.5 km
Treasure hunt for a cause—quality secondhand finds funding cancer research in Stirling's heart.
Bluebell's Childrenswear
0.5 km
Discover stylish, quality children's clothing and gifts in Stirling’s charming Bluebell's Childrenswear boutique.
A'ila Home
0.5 km
Discover Stirling’s unique homewares treasure trove offering quirky, quality décor and gifts that add personality to every room.
Calluna ethical living
0.5 km
Discover Stirling’s charming hub for sustainable gifts, ethical homewares, and beautiful plants at Calluna Ethical Living.
Trend
0.6 km
Discover Trend in Stirling, a unique clothing shop offering the latest fashion styles and timeless pieces for every occasion.
Stirling Health Food Store
0.6 km
Stirling Health Food Store offers over 45 years of trusted natural, vegan, and organic products with expert advice in the heart of Stirling.
Nickel & Dime
0.6 km
Discover Stirling’s eclectic emporium offering unique gifts, practical household goods, and charming finds at Nickel & Dime.
The Fragrance Shop
0.6 km
Discover your signature scent at Stirling’s premier independent fragrance retailer with expert advice and an extensive brand selection.
F&F Clothing
0.6 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for the whole family, conveniently located inside Tesco Stirling Superstore with extended hours and quality guarantees.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Settle Inn
0.3 km
Historic Stirling pub with cozy charm, lively folk music, and a welcoming atmosphere for ale lovers and locals alike.
Curly Coo Bar
0.4 km
Discover Stirling’s cozy whisky sanctuary with over 130 malt whiskies, warm hospitality, and a quirky yet traditional atmosphere.
Lawsons
0.4 km
Discover Lawsons, Stirling’s cozy gin lounge with over 95 gins, craft cocktails, and warm Scottish hospitality in a lively, welcoming setting.
Cross Keys
0.4 km
A cozy historic pub and inn in Stirling offering hearty local fare, guest beers, and comfortable rooms with scenic views.
BrewDog Stirling
0.4 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
0.4 km
A vibrant and quirky cocktail bar in Stirling city centre, known for expertly crafted classics and innovative creations in a relaxed, friendly setting.
King Cons
0.5 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
0.7 km
A classic Stirling pub offering well-kept beers, fine whiskies, and a friendly, inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Vinney’s Bar
1.4 km
A friendly, budget-friendly bar in Raploch, Stirling, known for its welcoming vibe and lively local nights.
The Borestone Bar
2.3 km
A friendly and affordable Stirling pub with a spacious lounge, welcoming locals, and a lively atmosphere near Bannockburn Road.
The William Wallace
2.4 km
A cosy, affordable Scottish pub near the Wallace Monument, offering hearty food, fresh beer, and a warm, friendly atmosphere in Stirling's Causewayhead.
Anchor Bar
2.5 km
A friendly and affordable community pub in Stirling with pool, darts, live sports, and a spacious function room for vibrant local gatherings.
1314 Inn
3.3 km
A friendly Stirling pub offering hearty Scottish fare, generous portions, and a warm community atmosphere at great value.
Westerton Arms
3.8 km
A cherished Bridge of Allan pub and restaurant blending hearty Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
The Bawbee
3.9 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Bridge of Allan, known for lively atmosphere, live music, generous portions, and expertly crafted drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Castle Leisure Group
0.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Castle Leisure Group in Stirling – a perfect blend of dining, nightlife, and entertainment for tourists.
Fubar Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Stirling’s energetic student nightlife at Fubar Nightclub, where music, lights, and lively crowds come alive late into the night.
XOXO
16.7 km
Central Scotland’s largest nightclub offering vibrant nightlife, pool hall fun, and private event spaces in the heart of Falkirk.
City Nightclub
16.7 km
Experience Falkirk’s vibrant nightlife at City Nightclub, the town’s energetic weekend hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night fun.
I-Kandy Nightclub
28.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at I-Kandy Nightclub in Airdrie, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere await!
Pulse
28.3 km
Experience Airdrie’s vibrant nightlife at Pulse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments come alive.
Eden Night Club
29.1 km
Vibrant late-night hotspot in Coatbridge offering house, R&B, and chart music with a lively atmosphere and smart dress code.
Avenue Nightclub Coatbridge
29.1 km
Coatbridge’s premier late-night nightclub for over-21s, offering vibrant music, modern vibes, and a lively weekend party scene.
LIFE
30.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and late-night fun at LIFE, Dunfermline’s energetic nightclub with a welcoming atmosphere and great music.
The Twig Nightclub
30.5 km
Bathgate’s oldest nightclub offering lively, affordable, and historic nightlife experiences every Saturday night.
Midnight Breakfast Club
30.8 km
A cozy live music venue and bar in Bathgate known for great tribute acts, strong drinks, and a friendly, lively atmosphere.
DreadnoughtRock Nightclub & Live Music Venue
31.0 km
Experience the pulse of Bathgate's nightlife at DreadnoughtRock, the ultimate live music venue and nightclub in the heart of the city.
Hustlers Pool Hall
33.6 km
Affordable, lively pool hall and sports bar in Rosyth offering fun games, friendly vibes, and great social atmosphere for all ages.
Backstage at The Green
33.7 km
Discover the heart of Kinross' nightlife at Backstage at The Green, a premier live music venue showcasing diverse musical talent.
Mundell Music
33.7 km
Discover the heartbeat of Kinross at Mundell Music, where unforgettable live performances and a welcoming atmosphere await every music lover.
