S is for...

... Stirling

Settlement

Stirling

24

Pop: 30515

This large town was formerly known as the gateway to the highlands as the last bridge crossing the Forth before it widens was here for many centuries. The castle, in which many Scottish royals were born, crowned and died, dominates the town, and the view from it across the large flat western glen is superb. The city retains much of its medieval shape although modern shopping areas make it a busy place to wander at the weekends. Nearby is the famous Wallace Monument.