Travel on to the mighty Stirling Castle – the reason why so many battles took place around here was in order to hold the strategic importance of Stirling, which overlooked the lowest bridging point across the River Forth. From the battlements, follow the gaze of King Robert Bruce himself as his statue looks towards Bannockburn, the site of his most famous victory. Savour the imposing Wallace Monument as it stands out against the scenic Ochil Hills.

Whilst en-route to The Wallace Monument we travel by Stirling Old Bridge, the present Stirling Old Bridge was built in the 1400s, replacing a succession of timber bridges. Undoubtedly the best-known of these was one that stood nearby in the 1290s, when Sir William Wallace and Sir Andrew Moray defeated Edward I’s forces at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. The bridge also played a part in the Jacobite Rising of 1745, when an arch was removed to forestall Bonnie Prince Charlie’s forces as they marched south. The bridge today remains one of the best medieval masonry arch bridges in Scotland.

Doune Castle was built around 1400 by Robert Stewart, 1st Duke of Albany, Earl of Menteith and Fife, a magnificent late 14th century courtyard castle Its most striking feature is the 100ft high gatehouse which includes the splendid Lord’s Hall with its musicians’ gallery, double fireplace and carved oak screen and you can hear the stories of the making of Monty Python and the Holy Grail which was also filmed at the castle.

The National Wallace Monument is a draw for all Wallace fans and it is no mean feat to reach the top of the 246 steps , but you are rewarded with the most wonderful view. The monument tells the story of Wallace and his importance to Scotland’s national identity. The wooded walk is not for the faint hearted but there is also minibus should you prefer to use it. There is a café and gift shop for souvenirs

Pass The Kelpies on your return to Edinburgh, they are 30-metre-high horse-head sculptures depicting kelpies (shape-shifting water spirits).