Running from now until September 9, the First Bus “1314” service provides a hop-on, hop-off facility for tourists, visitors and residents alike, who want to take in all the key attractions Stirling City Centre has to offer.
The route includes the National Wallace Monument, Stirling Old Bridge, the railway and bus station, as well as the Old Town Jail, Tolbooth, Church of the Holy Rude and Stirling Castle.
With 13 journeys taking place every day, as well as stop-offs in the City Centre and at Causewayhead Road, it is the perfect way for visitors and locals alike to retrace Stirling’s ancient history and see all the City Centre has to offer.
Councillor Margaret Brisley, Stirling Council’s Finance and Economy Committee convenor said: “Stirling has a unique historical offering to visitors and tourists and it’s great to see a service like this being delivered in the City.
“There is so much to see and this service will hopefully draw people in and boost tourism by giving them the chance to see all of that in one go.
“And with the introduction of the Explore Stirling App, which was launched earlier this year, I’m sure visitors will be keen to take the opportunity to listen to some of the fascinating tales and stories associated with these famous landmarks while hopping on and off as they make their way round the City.”
Improving connectivity between attractions and ensuring wider circulation of tourists across the city and wider region forms a key part of Stirling’s Tourism and Events Plan and this represents one element of supporting that. Coupled with the Explore Stirling app – a free downloadable electronic tourist companion – visitors will be able to enjoy hassle free travel with the added stories, information and background provided by the app, all on the go.
Finance and Economy vice convenor, Councillor Alison Laurie, backed the scheme and added: “People come from all over the world to see the famous landmarks Stirling has to offer so it makes sense for First Bus to be able to offer them a service that cuts down on traffic and allows visitors quick and easy access.
“Hopefully people take advantage of the service and enjoy everything Stirling City Centre has to offer.”
First Bus will provide the service seven days a week from 9.30am to 6.07pm, allowing visitors to cap off a busy day of sightseeing with a return trip to the City Centre.
Graeme Macfarlan, Commercial Director for First Scotland East, said: “First Scotland East are delighted to be teaming up in partnership with Stirling Council to once again provide a unique service linking the main tourist attractions in Stirling, such as the iconic Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument.
“Hopefully, local residents along with tourists will support this route and enjoy this unique way to take in such a scenic route.”
Among the top sights on offer will be the National Wallace Monument, one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Scotland.
Ken Thomson, Marketing Manager at The National Wallace Monument added: “The hop-on, hop-off City Tour bus service is a great way to explore Stirling's rich heritage and it offers a quick and reliable option for travelling from the city centre to The National Wallace Monument.”