So far this year, we’ve taken you on a virtual journey to Takamatsu, Japan and Agrigento, Italy on our quest to delve into all of TBAY’s sister cities. Today, we’re taking you on a red eye to Stirling, Scotland — Dunedin’s sister city.
Why Stirling?
To briefly jog your memory, a sister city affiliation signifies an official relationship between two places. Both parties agree to work more closely together, encompassing trade, business, educational + cultural exchanges, and other mutually beneficial exploits.
So how did our funky beachfront village and the Scottish city meet? Well, first off, Dunedin is actually the Scottish Gaelic name for Edinburgh. Which makes sense, because Dunedin was established by two Scots back in the 1800s.
Many other Scots made the waterfront area their home, leading to lots of Celtic influence in the TBAY town from street names to businesses.
The cities officially became sister cities in 1964. Earlier this year, Dunedin leaders marked the 60-year anniversary with a visit to their Scottish brethren.
To this day, the city proudly celebrates its Celtic roots in the spring with the Dunedin Highland Games & Festival and the Dunedin Celtic Festival in the fall. The city is also home to The Scottish American Society of Dunedin and the Dunedin Pipe and Drum Corps.
A brief overview
Lovingly nicknamed the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Stirling is home to some pretty incredible views, monuments, arts, and wildlife.
Stirling got its start around the 11th century when settlers decided to build a castle in the area, which is located along lowest crossing place over the River Forth.
The city remained small until the railroad arrived in 1848, and further grew as it became a hub for tourism due to its proximity to the Highlands. Stirling formally became a city in 2002.
Let’s take a trip
While the two cities may share deep Scottish roots, they’re also ~4,210 miles apart and separated by the Atlantic Ocean. Lucky for us, we have a top-notch international airport in TPA.
You can get to Stirling by flying into London via British Airways. From there, it’s a short flight to Edinburgh or Glasglow and a drive to the city.
So what are we doing there? Honestly, there’s almost too much to do.
You must visit the star of the city, Stirling Castle, nestled atop a volcanic outcrop. Referred to as “a huge brooch clasping Highlands and Lowlands together,” the castle was a key fixture in the Wars of Independence with England + Scottish celebrations.
Then head out on foot across the Stirling Old Bridge, which passes over the River Forth. Strolling down the pedestrian-only bridge is a true trek back in time. Make sure to pass the Wallace Monument, and stop into some museums, bookshops and coffee shops on your journey.
A visit to the Scottish paradise isn’t complete without a safari. Yes, you heard us right. Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park is home to creatures like giraffes and Highland cattle.
Now we need your help. Which TBAY sister city should we write about next? Let us know.
