Dunblane brings together the history of its cathedral, a museum, a historic library and several opportunities for walks. The themes range from ecclesiastical architecture and collections to routes along the Allan Water. You can choose this destination based on the balance you want between cultural history and time outdoors.

Cathedral and Ecclesiastical History

Dunblane Cathedral dates back to the 12th century. Most of the surviving fabric was built during the episcopate of Bishop Clement in the 13th century. The canopied choir stalls, dating from around 1500, are also part of the building’s history; Bishop James Chisholm commissioned them.

After the Church of Scotland’s Reformation in 1560, the choir became the parish church. The nave was no longer used, and its roof collapsed around 1600. Subterranean archaeological remains of the cathedral and its precinct preserve evidence of early Christian and medieval activity associated with the site’s use as an ecclesiastical centre.

The surviving remains of the Bishop’s Palace are part of what was once an extensive medieval bishop’s palace belonging to the cathedral and are of national importance. The palace is believed to have been built for Bishop Clement in the mid-13th century; it probably consisted of four wings around a central courtyard. The wording “is believed to have” and the probable interpretation of its layout are part of this historical assessment.

Museum and Historical Collection

Dunblane Museum houses artefacts, paintings, prints and photographs relating to the cathedral and Dunblane. Its collection also includes one of the largest collections of communion tokens. The themed rooms offer further perspectives on local history: their subjects range from a 4,000-year-old child’s necklace and the medieval cathedral to the Jacobite Battle of Sheriffmuir in 1715 and the First and Second World Wars. A replica of the Atlantic Wall and the achievements of tennis players Jamie Murray and Sir Andy Murray are also among the topics covered. The range of themes in the rooms may change over time.

The Leighton Library

The Leighton Library is considered Scotland’s oldest surviving purpose-built library. Its collection and much of the library’s furnishings have been largely preserved intact. The collection also includes some very rare early printed books. The library therefore complements a visit to the cathedral with a distinct perspective on historical collections and library furnishings.

Walks Around Dunblane

Laigh Hills Park is close to Dunblane Cathedral and the Allan Water. It has several woodland and wildlife walks. The Haining, a free car park, is opposite the cathedral; Laigh Hills is a five-minute walk from there. Note that parking rules and facilities in the park may change.

The different lengths and destinations can help you choose a route: the Allan Water/Laighills Loop is two miles long. Another, 4.5-mile riverside walk links Dunblane with the village of Ashfield and is scenic and straightforward. The Stevenson Way also passes through Dunblane; this route, described as a wilderness walking trail, runs from Mull to South Queensferry.

Another Option

Golf is another possible activity in Dunblane: Dunblane New Golf Club welcomes non-members to play. Together with its walking routes, library and historical collections, the town offers a range of starting points for planning a trip, without limiting a visit to a single theme.

Discover more destinations: Stronachlachar, Killin, Kippen, Cambusbarron, Kinlochard, Stirling, Bridge Of Allan, Aberfoyle

Go to the main travel overview: Stirling.