The Best Pubs in Stirling
Forget the guidebooks, Stirling’s pub scene is a riot of crackling fires, local ales, and plates of hearty chowder that will have you planning your next visit before you've finished your pint. From a historic 1733 inn echoing with traditional folk music to a multi award winning microbrewery serving stonebaked pizzas, the city is packed with spots where the warmth of the welcome is matched only by the quality of the cask ale and the view of the castle. Keep reading to discover the best pubs in Stirling.


1. Settle Inn
91 St Marys Wynd, Stirling, FK8 1BU
Step into the Settle Inn, a truly historic pub that has been pouring drinks since 1733, making it the oldest in the area. This small, character filled spot is the perfect place to warm up by the crackling wood fire, especially when enjoying a well kept local or national ale. The real magic happens on Wednesday nights, when the pub comes alive with a welcoming folk session where talented local musicians play traditional Scottish tunes. Whether you're a seasoned singer or just want to listen, the friendly crowd makes everyone feel right at home.
Photo by Eirian Evans — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
2. Allanwater Brewhouse
Queen's Ln, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4NY
Welcome to the Allanwater Brewhouse, a multi award winning microbrewery and real ale pub where you can enjoy cask ales brewed on site, stonebaked pizzas, and regular live acoustic music. This family run business greets everyone with a warm smile and is proud of its truly outstanding Scottish hospitality, offering a cozy bar with free WiFi, a toasty fire, board games, and books. You can book a behind the scenes brewery tour to see how they craft their beers, ciders, and gins, or browse their shop for craft beers and Scottish gins. With a huge selection of their own brews and ciders, plus seasonal and historic beer recipes, it's a welcoming spot for locals, tourists, children, dogs, and cyclists alike.


3. The Portcullis
Castle Wynd, Stirling, FK8 1EG
Welcome to The Portcullis, a 3 star Scottish Tourist Board awarded pub in a central location with traditional surroundings. We pride ourselves on serving great food and drinks including 2 cask ales, a fantastic selection of single malt whiskies, and freshly ground coffee. Free wi fi is available in the bar, and our friendly staff are known for big portions at a good price. Lonely Planet guide lists this as the best pub in the area, and you can even grab a quick bite at the bar with the same great service.
Photo by Ian S — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
4. The Meadowpark
56 Kenilworth Rd, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4RY
The Meadowpark is a charming listed building where you can enjoy excitingly eclectic homemade food and crackin’ homespun drinks, all served with friendly locality. You can unwind in stylish decor, a beautiful conservatory, or by a roaring log fire, and the garden terrace offers great views of Stirling Castle. The menu features hearty dishes made with locally sourced seasonal produce, including classic pub dishes and international temptations, plus a signature Sunday roast. Whether rain or shine, the superb outdoor garden area and inviting indoor spaces make it an ideal venue to visit all year round.


5. The Crossed Peels (Wetherspoon)
8 Spittal St, Stirling, FK8 1AT
The Crossed Peels is an award winning Wetherspoon pub offering superb quality, choice, and value in both food and drink. Its all day menu features an exciting mix of traditional meals alongside popular and innovative international dishes. The large area provides plenty of space to eat and drink, and the staff are friendly. It also boasts a good selection of cask beers for ale enthusiasts.
Photo by Richard Sutcliffe — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


6. City Walls
6 Back Walk Rock Terr, Stirling, Stirlingshire, FK8 2QA
This pub bursts with welcoming energy, making it a fantastic spot to catch a soccer match with friends. The team behind the bar is incredibly friendly, and you can grab an affordable drink while enjoying the buzz. For a real treat, their macaroni cheese is a must try, and the steak and wine deal offers incredible value for a hearty night out.
Photo by Robert Murray — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


7. Torbrex Inn
Torbrex, Stirling, Stirlingshire, FK 7 9
The Torbrex Inn is a cracking traditional pub that feels like a true local gem. The food is a real highlight, with regulars raving about the absolutely delicious Smoked Fish Chowder and the quite simply amazing Haggis starter. You'll find a warm welcome and a lively buzz, making it the perfect spot for a hearty meal and a proper pint.
Photo by Constman — CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
8. The Birds & Bees
Easter Cornton Rd, Stirling, FK9 5PB
Housed in a converted farm steading near the historic Wallace Monument, this award winning bar and bistro offers award winning food, real ales, and an extensive wine list. Diners can relax by the roaring fire in the cosy bar or sip wine in the award winning garden terrace. The menu features delicious dishes based on locally sourced seasonal ingredients, including daily seafood market specials and traditional brasserie favourites. The pub also boasts fabulous function suites for weddings and private parties.


9. Molly Malones
11 Maxwell Pl, Stirling, FK8 1JU
Welcome to Molly Malones, a cosy yet lively Irish style pub named after the legendary folkloric fishwife of Dublin. This pub offers an unbeatable range of delicious pub food, including bad boy burgers and macaroni, alongside great IPA options. It is the perfect spot to watch live sport, from footy to rugby, F1, and darts, with top notch amenities like Sky Sports, TNT Sports, and WiFi. You can also join the pub quiz every Friday to test your trivia knowledge and compete for bragging rights.
Photo by Gerald England — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


10. Westerton Arms
34 Henderson St, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4HR
The Westerton Arms in historic Bridge of Allan has been a prime local watering hole and eatery for over a century. Guests can stop by for a freshly made sandwich, settle in for a Sunday roast, or sample the à la carte menu, while drinkers can choose from some of Scotland’s finest ales. It also offers outdoor seating and gift vouchers, making it a welcoming spot for lunch, beer, and family meals.
Photo by Drkirstyross — CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons




