The historic 14th-century Doune Castle looms majestically over the quaint town of Doune. Learn from locals in the pleasant town about its Roman remains and former pistol industry. Stroll along the scenic River Teith running through the commune.
The impressive Doune Castle was constructed by the Duke of Albany in the 1300s. Gaze at the gatehouse rising to 100 feet (30 metres). The cult comedy classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail immortalized the site by using it to depict several fictional castles.
Use the audio guide for background information as you stroll through the building. The oak screen, musicians’ gallery and double fireplace of the Lord’s Hall are highlights. Explore the dark, narrow cobblestone tunnel beneath the castle.
In the town centre is the Market Cross, dating back to 1620. Admire the clock tower of the nearby 19th-century Kilmadock Parish Church, which is no longer active. Travel south to the Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, where exotic animals decorate the Scottish countryside.
Learn about the town’s history in pistol manufacturing. It is said that the first gun to fire in the American War of Independence came from Doune. Listen to the town’s fascinating old myths, such as the fairy dancing parties at Ardoch and the Bridge of Teith, which was built in 1533.
Although English is the principal language, a small number of local residents also speak Scottish Gaelic. Visit the town between April and July to enjoy walks and history trails in warm, dry conditions. Winters are cold and generally snowy, which adds to Doune’s pictorial charm.
The town is in the southeastern part of Stirling in central Scotland, between the nature parks of the Scottish Highlands and the big cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Drive the 45-mile (72-kilometre) journey west from Edinburgh to reach Doune in about 1 hour. Nearby towns include Dunblane and Stirling.
Visit Doune for a trip through an enchanting town filled with fables of its castles and fairies.
