Other current and historical names
Location and coordinates are for the approximate centre of Stirling within this administrative area. Geographic features and populated places may cross administrative borders.
Gazetteer of the British Isles (Edinburgh: Bartholomew, 1887). John Bartholomew
Stirling, parl. and royal burgh, co. town of Stirlingshire, and par., partly also in Clackmannanshire, on river Forth, 29 miles NE. of Glasgow, 33 miles SW. of Perth, 36 miles NW. of Edinburgh, and 408 miles NW. of London by rail - par., 1412 ac., pop. 13,480; parl. and police burgh (extending into St Ninians par.), pop. 16,001; royal burgh (extending into St Ninians and Logic pars.), pop. 12,194; town (extending into St Ninians par.), pop. 16,012; 7 Banks, 5 news-papers. Market-day, Friday. Stirling is one of the oldest and most interesting towns of Scotland, and is associated with many important events in Scottish history. The castle is finely situated on the summit of a precipitous rock, the abrupt termination of the rising ground on which the town stands, and commands a magnificent view. It was taken by the English in 1296, was held by them from 1304-1314, was long a favourite royal residence, and was the birthplace of James II. and James V., the latter of whom was also crowned here. The buildings consist of the Chapel Koyal (originally founded by Alexander I. and rebuilt by James VI.), the Parliament House (built by James III.),the Palace (by James V.),and other portions,which now serve as infantry barracks. There are many other objects of interest, including the King's Knot, the King's Park, the Mote Hill or Heading Hill, Argyll's Lodging, the Old Greyfriars Church, &c. Stirling is situated on the line of communication between the Highlands and the Lowlands, and is a railway centre. There is a jetty on the Forth, but the shipping trade is now almost superseded by the railway traffic. A steamer plies to and from Leith, the passage being greatly lengthened by the numerous windings of the river. Manufactures of tartans, tweeds, winceys, carpets, leather, and agricultural implements are carried on. The Stirling District of Parliamentary Burghs (Stirling, Dunfermline, Culross, Inverkeithing, and Queensferry) returns 1 member.